Patio and Hearth Products Report May/June 2021

MAY/JUNE 2021 | www.patioandhearthproductsreport.com

SUNNY SEATING

A New Superstore

Design is in the Details

BERNHARDT EXTERIORS

HEARTH PRODUCTS CONTROLS

INNOVATIVE HEARTH PRODUCTS

Page 40

AGIO

Page 20

| 54

Circle Reader Service No. 2

Circle Reader Service No. 3

may/june 2021

contents 68

Guest Editorial – Stand Together

By Jack Goldman The president and CEO of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association addresses how HPBA is tackling current challenges in the hearth and grill industry ........................8 Spotlight – Out is In

By Greg Thompson Customers are clamoring for these fabulous furniture collections that help craft dreamy backyard retreats ..............................20

86

91

80

Hearth Retailer – Stellar Service

By Kimberly Rodgers This Austin, Texas, fireplace store built its reputation by providing highly rated hearth lines and white-glove service ..............32

Product Innovation – Fave Flames

By Maura Keller Regency’s focus on creating innovative, first-rate fireplaces has been its mainstay since its founding in 1979 ....................50

Outdoor Grilling – Novel Niche

By Maura Keller An Iowa home-based grill repair business evolves into a full-service retail store for barbecue fans....................................36

Corporate Profile – Eclectic Exteriors

By Laurie Rudd Bernhardt Exteriors’ modern design aesthetic woos customers who covet furniture with elegant, clean lines. ....................54

Showroom Showcase – Reaping the Rewards

By Sharon Sanders Opening a new store during the pandemic’s dark days turned out to be a profitable move for this Southern California retailer..........40

Insight – Sustained Success

By Cherise Forno AEI Corporation celebrates five decades of distributing and manufacturing superior gas grills and outdoor heating products ......58

As I See It – Greener is Better

By Sharon Sanders POLYWOOD’s high-quality recycled furniture has a strong fan base among customers and specialty retailers ..............44

Insight – Fulfilling Dreams

By Cherise Forno With two retail stores, outside sales, wholesale distribution, online channels, and manufacturing, CGProducts’ strength is its depth ........................................60

My Turn – Above & Beyond Sharon Sanders Growing consumer demand for pellet grilling causes sales to soar for Dansons and its BBQ dealers ............................48

Last Word – Elegance Elevated

By Kimberly Rodgers Twin Eagles’ grills are admired for their luxurious design and groundbreaking product features ............................................62

on the cover:

Agio (888) 997-7623 www.apricityoutdoor.com

68

plus!

4 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

6

Editor’s Message

10

Industry News

66

What’s New: 6 Hot Products to Sell Now

68

Product Profiles

94

Product Profiles Directory & Ad Index

SET the STAGE for ENJOYMENT.

Trenton COLLECTION

Apricity’s inspiring designs empower your customers to create outdoor spaces that showcase their entertaining style, allowing them to fully enjoy ‘the warmth of the sun’ with trendsetting looks and innovative new materials.

Discover the power of becoming an Apricity retailer today | ApricityOutdoor.com Circle Reader Service No. 5

OUTDOOR. ELEVATED.

Follow Us:

editor’s message

Risk

Carol Daus

Must Reads ∂ An Iowa BBQ retailer gave one of its grills to a local radio DJ, whose on-air conversations have created visibility for the grill and the store.

Novel Niche, p. 36

∑ When supply chain snags caused delays in product availability, this California patio store gave customers free spa chemicals and waived delivery charges.

Reaping the Rewards, p. 40

∏ Dansons recently opened the country’s largest barbecue wood pellet mill and distribution center in Arkansas, creating about 50-100 jobs for the local community.

Above & Beyond, p. 48

π Bernhardt incorporated its iconic interior designs into its Exteriors line to match the growing trend of indoor living areas flowing seamlessly into outdoor spaces.

Eclectic Exteriors, p. 54

6 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Since Patio & Hearth Products Report was launched 15 years ago, we have spotlighted hundreds of successful specialty retailers in the U.S. and Canada, from small mom & pop patio and hearth shops to multi-store chains. Regardless of their size and geographic location, these successful retailers all share a critical component to their growth: The willingness to use risk to their advantage.

Managing r isk is essential for sound business and personal growth. Without risk, there is no reward. Just ask the retailers featured in this issue of the magazine. During the height of the pandemic, our Showroom Showcase retailer (p. 40) opened a second location. Some would have considered this a risky move during a period of pandemic shutdowns and other uncertainties, but it paid off greatly as sales continue to surge at the new store.

One of the current owners profiled in our hearth retailer column (p. 32) left a successful career with Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City, followed by a stint as a high-end design consultant, to team up with the owners of an Austin, Texas, fireplace store. As it turned out, this plan to co-own a hearth store and relocate was one of the best professional and personal decisions of her life. The couple featured in our outdoor grilling column (p. 36) gave up their home business of distributing grill parts and repairing/replacing grills to become a full-service brick-andmortar grill store, which is now a popular destination stop for loyal barbecue aficionados in Iowa and surrounding states.

If these folks had stayed in their comfort zones, simply doing business as usual, they would not be reaping the rewards that resulted from taking these risks. Successful entrepreneurs are willing to become uncomfortable by stretching their potential and assuming risk. The path forward is not always obvious, but that doesn’t mean that a 5-year-plan or a detailed SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis always brings clarity.

People often make better decisions with snap judgments than they do with volumes of analysis—often referred to as “analysis paralysis” by management consultants. In talking with retailers and manufacturers in our industry, I have learned that some of the most successful expansions, corporate relocations, product diversifications, and career

changes were approached with uncertainty and ambiguity in the early stages.

Victoria Labalme, corporate coac h and author of “Risk Forward: Embrace the Unknown and Unlock the Hidden Genius” (2021), explains that it’s this gap between what is and what could be that results in a beneficial outcome. This in-between place, Labalme stresses, should be respected because it ultimately helps define productive paths and future accomplishments. “Clarity is not the place from which we begin but rather the place at which we ultimately arrive,” Labalme says.

The best entrepreneurs understand the importance of making smart, calculated risks, to avoid negative consequences. Malcolm Gladwell in his best-selling book, “Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking” (2005), stresses that gut reactions are often the best reactions to potential bad risks, because your subconscious takes in all available information and registers very reliable instant responses. In other words, if you find yourself waking up in the middle of the night worried about a possible business decision, it may be true that this action is the sort of risk you will want to avoid in the future.

One rule of thumb is to think through the worst thing that could happen and the best thing that could happen from any risk you take. It’s most likely that the actual result will fall somewhere in between those two things.

If you can tolerate the worst possible outcome and the risk has a potential greater benefit to your business, then the risk is probably worth taking. Mistakes can occur during the process, but if the overall idea was sound, typically all that’s needed is a slight detour to accomplish a desired result.

With consumer confidence exceptionally high (March recorded the largest one-month gain in nearl y a decade) and huge spikes in sales of outdoor furniture and stylish fireplaces, now is a good time to consider taking a risk—whether it’s expanding into a new product line, opening another store, hiring a designer for in-home consultations, or adding an e-commerce platform.

In other words, don’t hold back. The timing is perfect for a new wave of risktaking entrepreneurs with novel ideas and fresh energy!

Carol Daus caroldaus@gmail.com

LIFE’S BEST MOMENTS. FURNISHED.™ ITALIA COLLECTION Visit us for an exclusive offer at SummerClassics.com/Hearth Circle Reader Service No. 7

guest editorial

By Jack Goldman PUBLISHER Tony Ramos

stand together

tramos@peninsula-media.com MANAGING EDITOR Carol Daus

Jack Goldman

It’s safe to say that we entered

into 2021 with the hope that the strange pandemic year was behind us and that life would get back to normal. As we get vaccinated and examine our sales numbers from the previous year, the industry has every right to be optimistic. Unfortunately, challenges—both old and new—are rearing up and threatening everyone who makes a living in the hearth industry. The outdoor living industry would be wise to keep an eye on these threats, as it is probably just a matter of time before these same challenges confront outdoor cooking.

Healthy competition between our member companies is a good thing.

Sometimes, it puts HPBA in the uncomfortable middle when we can’t find a consensus on an issue and must remain neutral and silent. But there are also times when we will call for our member companies to put aside their differences and stand together to fight for our right to sell our products. We are in such a time now.

Last fall, we received the final word from the EPA about sell-through of Step 1 stoves by retailers beyond the May 15, 2020, deadline, as set in the 2015 New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) for wood-burning appliances. The bottom line is that there won’t be any sell-through. We fought hard for that over the years, but due to the EPA’s inaction, a sellthrough proposal to help out dealers affected by COVID-related closures never got acted upon, leaving the May 15, 2020, deadline in place. By the start of 2021, our wood-burning appliance manufacturers were ready to move on with their Step 2 products and put NSPS behind them.

But lurking in the background over the past few months was the “Alaska Situation,” being closely monitored by HPBA. The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation began using a state rule to exclude stoves from sale in the state. As part of this process, new requirements (like a onehour filter pull emissions limit) were put in place. Stoves began to be flagged for removal from the market for almost any reason at all—like Alaska staff not having access to confidential business information or a test report not having the name of the person conducting a pre-burn on a unit prior to testing.

Recently, this has escalated with a report released by the Northeast States for Coordinated Air Use Management (NESCAUM) echoing those concerns and adding new ones.

While most of the “findings” in the report are presented without supporting data, it may well identify some areas of genuine concern in the testing and certification process. Many of the claims in the report, however, can be disputed—and we have started that process. Probably the most outrageous allegation they make is that Step 2 wood-burning appliances are no cleaner than older appliances.

It is almost comical that anyone could make that accusation with a straight face, but some headlines around the country are repeating that claim, and this threatens all manufacturers who have invested a lot of time and money to create Step 2 certified wood-burning appliances. This also could threaten tax credits and changeout programs, just as they are picking up momentum.

HPBA and its Solid Fuel Hearth Appliance Section are disputing this report and will be doing much more in the coming months. With a unified industry behind us, we can push back and protect consumers’ rights to a clean stove and the ability of our manufacturers to sell them.

But there’s more. Gas fireplaces are just as endangered. By now, we are all familiar with the efforts in many cities and a few states to regulate—either by limiting or banning—the use of natural gas or propane in new homes and

8 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

buildings. While we are pleased to see a number of states move ahead with “fuel choice” legislation (aka “ban the ban” bills) that would protect consumer’s right to choose the energy option that best suits their needs, other states are moving ahead to be “carbon neutral” and limit that choice.

We could write volumes about the problem with electrification and how it isn’t even feasible right now. In addition, hasty action now could make it much harder to creatively meet the nation’s energy needs down the road.

If there are no pipes, how do you use renewable natural gas, a very promising way to store excess energy as hydrogen gas? What about the resiliency that natural gas provides to boil water or keep homes warm in weather events like we saw in Texas and Oregon earlier this year?

Reducing carbon emissions is undeniably the right thing for our country.

The question, though, is whether forced electrification effectively gets us closer to that goal.

There is a coordinated attack on energy choice in this country, whether it is your wood-burning stove, gas grill, or your gas fireplace. Our industry must stand together to face this down and put aside our smaller differences.

HPBA is an important part of that fight, and we are ready to take it on.

Want to learn more? Show your support for the industry? Talk to your peers? HPBExpo Connect is just a couple of short months away. Instead of a face-to-face trade show, this year we are going with a virtual gathering, so it is convenient and safe to attend from anywhere. Registration is open and more exhibitors are signing up every day.

HPBA members attend f or free, nonmembers for $75. Join us virtually on June 23–26 and help us show a unified front in the face of these pressures. The HPBA team will hold a special session for retailers, reps, and distributors on all of these government affairs issues on June 25. Be sure to register!

caroldaus@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Cassandra Estes cassestes1968@gmail.com COPY EDITOR John Nalley STAFF WRITERS Cherise Forno Maura Keller Kimberly Rodgers Laurie Rudd Sharon Sanders Greg Thompson SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Greg Thompson CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Whitney Carrier BUSINESS MANAGER Susan Razetto CEO & PRESIDENT Tony Ramos

CORPORATE OFFICE Peninsula Media 21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 700 Torrance, CA 90503 (310) 792-7448 (310) 792-7449/Fax www.patioandhearthproductsreport.com

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

Subscription Inquiries: Patio & Hearth Products Report PO Box 2190 Skokie, IL 60076-7890 Subscribe online:

Jack Goldman is the president and CEO of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association.

www.patioandhearthproductsreport.com Email: patioandhearth@omeda.com Phone: (847) 763-9261

Circle Reader Service No. 9

Circle Reader Service No. 9

PATIO & HEARTH PRODUCTS REPORT

IndustryNews Hearth & Home Technologies Stays Hot With Cool Technology Hearth & Home Technologies (HHT) continues to gain momentum with its patent-pending PowerFlow technology. The technology can be found on the Lakeville, Minnesota-based company’s Primo gas fireplace where PowerFlow redirects the flow of heat, sending warmth to the room while maintaining safe outer glass and a cool wall for TVs or heat-sensitive materials above the fireplace.

With the flip of a switch, users can quickly adjust heat distribution—inside or out of the home.

PowerFlow requires one of the following heat management solutions. A combination of two may also be used for maximum heat control.

• Passive Heat: Allows heat to disperse naturally in the room, reducing surface temperatures.

• Heat Zone: Allows users to heat the same room or move the heat to an adjacent room.

• Heat Out: Allows users to redirect heat to the outside of the home.

HHT offers passive and fan options to get the right solution for each install. Heat & Glo Fireplaces, Heatilator Fireplaces, and Majestic Fireplaces all incorporate the cool technology.

“A gas fireplace is safe for your room’s interior walls and paint, with or without heat management,” explains Kathy Rogers, category director. “Wallpaper is a bit of a different story. Typically, you cannot

install wallpaper next to the opening of a gas fireplace; however, with the PowerFlow system on the Primo, you’re able to bring wallpaper and other wall coverings you can’t typically use that close to the fireplace.”

Most of HHT’s heat management options use fans to pull heat from the fireplace and move them into the room or into an adjacent room. A passive heat kit naturally disperses the heat w ithout a fan.

This type of “Heat Out” system works in any home, allowing people to increase comfort and use fireHeat & Glo’s Primo places year-round. “Heat manageGas Fireplace ment helps to disperse the heat in “Hearth & Home Technologies has training availthe areas you use the most,” Rogers says. “This allows able for our trade partners to help them learn more you turn the temperature down in the other places about all of our options,” Rogers adds. “The best way and keep the temperature perfect in the room with to promote heat management to customers is to help the fireplace.” them understand the benefits—TV closer to the fireRogers points out that dealers can stress the place equals lower on the wall. They can also heat the advantage s of heat management to close more gas owner’s suite at the same time as their living room or fireplace sales. For example, these technologies allow move heat outside the home to avoid over-heating buyers to enjoy their fire in comfort and, at the same their guests while still enjoying the fireplace.” time, expand interior design flexibility.

HPC Fire Inspired Ignites Success Through Expansion, Technology HPC Fire Inspired recently moved to a larger building outfitted with state-of-the-art manufacturing, racking, and logistic systems. “Not only is the space bigger for manufacturing and inventory opportunities, it allowed us to build an innovation center for our R&D team,” says Sean Steimle, CEO. “We are very excited for our game-changing technologies and product launches in 2021 and 2022.”

The first of three new tech launches in 2021 began in early February with a new augmented reality smart app, the result of customers asking how they could visualize HPC’s fire features in their space.

The app allows users to select options, scan their area, and virtually place the products in the space— allowing clients to see in real-time how the fire feature will look.

Thanks to the recent acquisition of Forno de Pizz a last year, HPC recently relaunched its niche for handcrafted gas/wood hybrid ovens. “Honoring timeless styling cues from centuries-old cooking his-

10 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Forno de Pizza Hybrid Gas/Wood Oven

Torpedo burner

tory isn’t antithetical to modern engineering and performance,” Steimle says. “These ovens were designed for the ones who understand it’s not just for pizzas, it’s for everyone. We started preselling the ovens in March and we are experiencing significant dem and. One of the hottest glass tile colors is the ocean blue.”

In May, HPC Fire Inspired introduced HPC Fire Inspired Torpedo burner, built with commercialgrade stainless steel and patented nozzle technology

to provide the biggest flame available. The Torpedo’s nozzle design uses patented Penta burner technology to provide customers with the warmest fire available, and the reliability they’ve come to appreciate from HPC Fire Inspired.

The acquisition strategy continues to bear fruit with a new marketing category of outdoor dining. Steimle reveals that plans are in the works to build out the category with other outdoor dining appliances and accessories.

Steimle credits many of these changes and improvements to an R&D team that “is passionate and loves what they do.” The passion combined with conside rable experience in electrical, mechanical, and other engineering disciplines allow for elite brainstorming and collaboration. “HPC’s Fire Inspired promise is that our fire features light every

Outdoor GreatRoom Company Introduces Virtual Showroom Experience The Outdoor GreatRoom Company (Burnsville, Minnesota) recently launched its first-ever Virtual Showroom Experience. Powered by virtual software 3DVista, the new Virtual Showroom is The Outdoor GreatRoom Company’s Virtual Showroom an immersive way for travels around the country to visit guests to discover new and popular dealers and attend trade shows, outdoor living products manufacsuch as Casual Market and tured by The Outdoor GreatRoom HPBExpo,” says David Shimek, sales Company (OGC). manager. “The Virtual Showroom The Brooks Fire Table and 30allows even more dealers, sales repinch Cove Bowl are a few popular resentatives, and distributors to see products featured in the tour. The our new products and interact with Virtual Showroom incorporates them in an innovative way.” lifestyle videos, informational handOGC dealers and distributors outs, and product page links to can now utilize the Virtual deliver a personalized interaction Showroom to share product inforbetween sales representatives, partmation with eager homeowners in a nered businesses, and consumers. safe and comfortable manner. “The Easy-to-use buttons and an engagability for customers to browse the ing visual interface are included to OGC’s line of gas fire pit tables from create a seamless experience. The the convenience of their homes, creation of the OGC’s Virtual Tour is especially in a time when physical largely in response to trade shows showrooms may have limited hours and in-person events canceled due or occupancy, is invaluable,” says to the pandemic. It now serves as an Marc Hardesty, Eastern sales repreimpactful tool for educating cussentative. Contact sales@outdoortomers on OGC product offerings. rooms.com for a guided tour.

“In any ordinary year, the OGC

time and we guarantee this with our no-nonsense, hassle-free lifetime warranty on our burners and pans,” Steimle says. “Our products are crafted with care using high quality commercial grade stainless steel and certified designs that’s proven to light every time.”

HPC Fire Inspired offers appealing educational kiosks for retailers’ storefronts. Specifically, the kiosk explains how to select and construct the style, shape, and technology of their fire pit with the help of the dealer, all while using HPC fire pit inserts. In addition, the company offers education and training via weekly blogs, webinars, and seminars on a variety of technical topics. All of these new products, technologies, and initiatives are expected to continue the company’s considerable momentum, adding up to a strong 2021.

Elmira Stove Works Pays Homage to the Iconic Desert Oasis

Palm Springs Collection

To celebrate the arrival of spring, Elmira Stove Works (Elmira, Ontario), the leading manufacturer of premium vintage-styled kitchen appliances, debuted a colorful new curated collection for its Northstar Line of appliances. The Palm Springs Collection includes four welcoming hues inspired by the diverse color palette found in

InsideOut Performance Fabrics Continues to Redefine Performance InsideOut Performance Fabrics, a brand of Valdese Weavers, continues to make advancements to enhance overall performance.

InsideOut is the first all-in-one performance fabric in the marketplace and by utilizing the latest textile technology, they are able to continually refine the features that allow it to be easily cleaned, used indoors or outdoors, and have a high-end decorative aesthetic. By working closely with partners throughout their supply chain, InsideOut successfully improved durability by reengineering their fibers and optimizing the technology used in the yarn production process.

Valdese Weavers offers industryleading dyeing capabilities due to having their own on-site dye house where they can test and utilize the latest dyeing technology.

InsideOut’s performance yarns offer UV protection to make it fade resist-

the iconic desert town located in Southern California’s Coachella Valley.

Cerulean Blue is a rich shade reminiscent of the vast sky on a clear sunlit day. Perfectly Pink is a cheerful and playful hue that brings a sense of fun and carefree adventures. Palm Green encapsulates the unexpected vitality of a hidden oasis. Desert Sand is a creamy, versatile neutral that perfectly complements bright pops of color.

“As we look forward to better days ahead, color has assumed an even more important role in kitchen design,” says Tony Dowling, vice president of sales & marketing for Elmira Stove Works. “Once known as the ‘Playground of the Stars,’ Palm Springs is a sought-after destination for its Mid-Century Modern architecture, luxury resorts and spas, lush golf courses, sweeping mountain views, and wide range of inviting hues.

InsideOut Performance Fabrics collection

ant and are also bleach cleanable and engineered to meet the standards for residential, hospitality, and commercial settings. Continuous investments in new state-of-the-art equipment have provided technical advancements that improve the look and soften the hand of InsideOut. Using sustainable manufacturing practices and engineering InsideOut to be an eco-friendly fabric choice remains a strong focus.

InsideOut is Greenguard Gold certified and is proud to be a residential PFC-free performance fabric that does not sacrifice luxury or design.

Our newest curated collection honors the hope for a brighter, more color-rich future and a much-needed dose of rest and relaxation.”

In addition to the Palm Springs Collection, Elmira’s Northstar line is available in nine standard colors and more than 1,200 custom hues, including RAL and Axalta SpectraMaster Solid Colors.

Designers and consumers can view Elmira’s appliances in standard colors, trims, and cabinet finishes via the “Create Your Dream Kitchen” visualizer tool on the company’s website.

Designers can also access the Northstar and Heritage lines on the 2020 Design cloud’s 3D CAD catalog. For more information, visit www.elmirastoveworks.com or call (800) 295-8498.

2021 Trend Report: Outdoor Living Space is “More Valuable Than Ever Before” Volumes of scientific research prove the physical and mental health bene-

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 11

Circle Reader Service No. 13

industry news fits of spending time in nature. And, while COVID19 has kept the majority of us at home for the past year, 90% of Americans with outdoor living spaces have been taking greater advantage of their decks, porches, and patios, and consider their outdoor living space as more valuable than ever before.

According to an exclusive 2021 survey conducted for the International Casual Furnishings Association, people are doing more relaxing, grilling, gardening, exercising, dining, playing with pets and children, and entertaining outside. “In normal times, outdoor spaces are areas of recreation for ourselves and our families, yet today we need them for restoration for our bodies and minds,” says Jackie Hirschhaut, vice president of the American Home Furnishings Alliance and executive director of its outdoor division, the International Casual Furnishings Association.

The survey also revealed that nearly 6 in 10

Americans (58%) plan to buy at least one new piece of furniture or accessories for their outdoor living spaces this year. This significant and increasing percentage of planned purchases is likely due, at least in part, to the amount of time we are spending at home due to the pandemic, as well as the proven health benefits of exposure to nature. Atop the list of planned purchases are grills, fire pits, lounge chairs, lighting, dining table and chairs, umbrellas, and sofas.

TOP 2021 TRENDS FOR OUTDOORS New Generation of Buyers: Millennials are reaching the perfect age to entertain. Over half of Millennials (53%) will be buying multiple pieces of outdoor furniture next year, compared to 29% of Boomers.

Upgrades Wanted: With a clear majority of Americans with outdoor spaces saying they’re dissatisfied with these spaces (88%), it stands to reason they’ll

want to upgrade in 2021. Of those, 66% are not completely satisfied with its style, 56% are not completely satisfied with its function, and 45% are not completely satisfied with its comfort.

Taking Indoors Outside: Millennials are selecting traditionally “indoor” pieces for their outdoor spaces.

Millennials are more likely to have a sofa or a sectional (40% vs. 17% Boomers), a bar (37% vs. 17% Boomers), and décor such as rugs (25% vs. 17% Boomers) on their shopping lists.

Party First, Earn Later: Judging by their wish lists, it is no surprise that Millennials are more likely to upgrade their outdoor oases out of a desire to entertain than their older counterparts (43% vs. 28% Boomers).

What is surprising, however, is the pragmatism. Nearly a third of Millennials (32%) want to renovate their outdoor spaces to add value to their homes, compared to just 20% of Boomers.

Renovation Nation: Those who plan to give their outdoor spaces a makeover know what they want.

Outdoor lighting (52%), lounge chairs or chaises (51%), a fire pit (49%), and a dining table with chairs (42%) top the list.

Make Functional Fun: Americans do not just want their outdoor spaces to be aesthetically pleasing, they want to get real use out of them. Over half of Americans (53%) want to create enjoyable and functional space. Other top reasons include the ability to entertain (36%) and to create a private retreat (34%).

Only a quarter want to upgrade their outdoor spaces to add value to their homes (25%).

Put Your Feet Up: Three-quarters (74%) of Americans use their patios for relaxation, while 58% use them for socializing with family and friends. Over half (51%) use their outdoor spaces for cooking.

“At the beginning of 2020, we were focused on creating outdoor spaces that complement our homes and lifestyles,” says Hirschhaut, “and today, we are creating outdoor spaces that supplement our sense of well-being and transform an outdoor area into an outdoor room.”

The research was conducted by Wakefield Research on behalf of the American Home Furnishings Alliance and International Casual Furnishings Association among 1,000 nationally representative U.S. adults ages 18 and older between January 4 and 8, 2021.

Dometic MoBar Earns Two Prestigious Design Awards

Circle Reader Service No. 14

14 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Days after winning the esteemed Red Dot Award: Product Design 2021, the MoBar series from Dometic (Stockholm, Dometic MoBar Sweden) was honored as a recipient of the iF DESIGN AWARD 2021. The unique design of the MoBar is now recognized by two of the world’s most renowned internal design awards.

Circle Reader Service No. 15

industry news Professionally graded with a timeless state-of-the-art patented design, the Dometic MoBar is the ultimate mobile bar for entertaining in any outdoor space. It is praised for not compromising style for functionality or convenience, allowing hosts and their guests to socialize outdoors without ever missing a moment.

The Red Dot Award: Product Design dates back as far as 1955 and recognizes the best products for a given year. The jurors were once again true to the motto “In search of good design and innovation” in the 2021 competition. The international panel of experts scrutinized the products entered in the competition and were guided by assessment criteria such as the product’s quality, ergonomics, and longevity.

The Dometic MoBar can be seen in the online exhibition on the Red Dot website, starting on June 21. From June 22, the Dometic MoBar will also be included in the exhibition “Design on Stage” in the Red Dot Design Museum Essen, where the award-winning prod-

ucts are showcased. Also, the Red Dot Design Yearbook 2021/2022 comes out in August. The publication provides a comprehensive overview of the state of the art and trends in product design.

Each year, the world’s oldest independent design organization, Hannover, Germany-based iF International Forum Design GmbH, organizes the iF DESIGN AWARD program. This year, Dometic MoBar received a product design award in the garden category. It won over the 98-member jury with its uniqueness and functionality supported by stylish design. Almost 10,000 entries were submitted from 52 countries.

“We’re pleased to see MoBar recognized by the world’s leading design authorities,” says Peter Kjellberg, CMO and head of other verticals at Dometic. “We are convinced it is going to change the way people entertain outdoors. Poolside and garden parties or gathering on an apartment terrace will be stylish and professional with the Dometic MoBar.” continued on page 93

Sunset West Wins People’s Choice Award, Unveils New Products

Sunset West received the People’s Choice Award at the Las Vegas Winter Market once again. In both 2020 and 2021, the company earned the award in the furniture category.

This year’s winning design included a curated look with the Coastal Teak and Bazaar Collections. Sunset West’s design approach includes keeping the uniquely coordinated color stories in mind, with mixing and matching furniture from Coastal Teak and Faux Bois Concrete Occasional Tables from The Bazaar, while remaining within a specific color and style grouping.

Sunset West’s new Huntington Collection also received strong positive feedback from Market attendees. Featuring distinctive angles and handsanded curves hewn from solid teak wood, this collection fits many different outdoor settings. Sunset West also displayed its expansion of swivel club chairs, sling double adjustable chaises, round dining tables, and armless curved sofas from the Redondo, Laguna, and Newport collections.

Other new product additions introduced at the Market included bar height seating, coffee tables, wicker and rope daybeds, fire tables, and accent pillows. These new products can be found at www.sunsetwestusa.com.

BUILT TO OUTCOMFORT & OVERLAST

WOODARD-FURNITURE.COM

Circle Reader Service No. 16

16 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Coastal Teak and Bazaar Collections

Circle Reader Service No. 17

Gi29 GAS INSERT

i3000 LARGE WOOD INSERT

INTRODUCING NEW INSERTS ATMOSPHERE COLLECTION WITH NEW INFUSION BURNER The first of our all new Atmosphere Gas Inserts collection featuring our revolutionary infusion burner.

The Gi29 offers an unmatched flame picture, more options, & more standard features in a size designed to fit into more spaces.

CLASSIC SERIES CONTEMPORARY LARGE WOOD INSERT A reimagining of our classic series, the new i3000 non-catalytic large wood insert combines a flush, contemporary look with the simplicity & ease-of-use of the Classic series.

See Regency’s vision for 2021 to learn more about these products and what other new products we will have available this year.

regency-vision.com/new-products

Circle Reader Service No. 19

product spotlight

Lucia Seating from Kingsley Bate

In

Out is

From chat sets to lounge chairs and sectionals, the latest outdoor furniture

W

ith the onset of spring and a postpandemic future coming into focus, the patio remains a desirable refuge for homeowners who have discovered the beauty of their backyards. Manufacturers in this issue’s Spotlight are crafting gorgeous furniture for those outdoor spaces. Pretty enough for the living room, but sturdy enough for outdoor spaces, these collections are made for customers seeking real value.

“Custom ers are wanting to style their outside rooms with eclectic, special pieces much like they would their indoor space,” says Leisa McCollister, vice president of marketing, OW Lee. “People are less into the ‘matchy-matchy’ sets.”

After years of what Jess Flanders calls “monochromatic Scandinavian-inspired minimalism,” the vice president of marketing at Lloyd Flanders Inc., contends that color and pattern are now taking over.

“Deep blues, rich greens, and warm earth tones are all popular as homeowners create their own style,” she says. “Stripes are a perennial favorite for outdoor fabrics, as are easy florals and botanical patterns.

Another trend is the ‘new traditional’ design style with consumers mixing and matching classic pieces with bolder or more modern items to create a comfortable, custom look.”

“In general, we see a trend toward lighter colors

20 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

offerings are in high over darker colors,” adds Brian tiple segments of the demand.

Blakeney, vice president of sales & consumer channel so marketing, Kingsley Bate. “Subdued the demographic profile

BY GREG THOMPSON natural colors are still the most popular.” varies. Verna describes typiCheck out the baker’s dozen of companies for cal Tropitone consumers as delectable ideas to heat up sales in the warm summer those who are looking for the most months to come. comfortable and durable furniture they can find.

The consistent quality comes through via employees TROPITONE FURNITURE who Verna describes as emotionally attached to the Recent product launches at Tropitone Furniture brand. “We are all heavily invested in the success of (Irvine, California) have garnered considerable Tropitone,” he says, “because we care.” momentum, primarily thanks to two complete colFor Tropitone and many others, the global pandemic has led to what Verna characterizes as tremenlections of dining and deep seating, as well as a new range of fire pits. Well received in markets across the dous demand, and Verna foresees more “digital engagement and transactions” in the future, again country, the collections have managed to extend the partially due to the pandemic. value proposition with new price points that target a wide demographic.

Consumers of the future are looking to digital tools, but many are also environmentally conscious “The largest shift we have seen is from dining to and willing to look for manufacturers who feel likedeep seating,” says Frank Verna, senior vice president of consumer sales. “We are also seeing shifts to grays wise. “I think it’s important to many consu mers,” and blues, and it is getting even lighter every year. We Verna says. “We have a ‘Green Living’ page on our website, which lays out our commitment to sustainconstantly look for ways to improve the ownership ing and improving the environment.” experience of our product in sling, padded, and cushion as well as our tables and fire pits. The cornerNORTHCAPE stones of the Tropitone value prop are quality and Tom Murray, president of NorthCape (Romeoville, comfort, and these will always remain.”

Illinois), keeps a keen eye on style trends primarily Tropitone works strictly through resellers in mul-

The Addison Collection from Agio

Modern Adirondack from C.R. Plastic Products

Harper Collection from Winston Furniture

by spending a lot of time in the field. While 2020 posed a lot of challenges to that strategy, the dealer base and floor sales people produced a wealth of feedback about colors, styles, and price points. “The closer we are to end users,” Murray says, “the more successful our product development.”

With the data coming in, NorthCape responded with thicker resin weaves, charcoal weaves, mixed media, and poly lumber/tangent. Top sellers boasted a combination of styles and mixed media with comfort and value. “The materials and styles have evolved and continue to change,” Murray says. “Styles 15- to 20-plus years ago were more traditional, but now are more transitional and contemporary. More materials like HDPE extrusions in planks or weaves, natural woods, extruded and cast aluminum—are mixed to create some really cool looks.”

Those NorthCape “cool looks” are typically targeted at households with $100K+ in annual income, usually landing in the suburbs where outdoor spaces tend to be more expansive. Buyers are looking for well-made items, with Murray contending that, “Customers typically buy our products planning to use them—a lot—not just for decoration, so comfort and durability is key.”

Like many of his colleagues, Murray is optimistic, declaring that 2021 already “looks strong” thanks to economic stimulus, home entertaining, e-commerce, and new technology—all helping to increase sales.

Getting production back to normal will continue to be the real challenge. “2021 will be about getting product,” Murray says. “Some flexibility by dealers and users will help maximize the opportunity for all.”

KINGSLEY BATE Kingsley Bate (Manassas, Virginia) introduced several new collections this year with some offerings in teak or wicker, but most falling under the mixed media category.

Prime examples are items in the Lucia seating collection, made from a blend of teak and weather-friendly rope. The company’s Spencer seating group has teak frames inlaid with all-weather wicker.

According to Brian Blakeney,

vice president of sales & marketing, both of these innovative groups are priced at “very good” value for maximum customer appeal. Lucia and Spencer follow the growing trend toward high style in the outdoors. “Consumers design their outdoor spaces with the same intentionality as the interiors of their homes,” Blakeney says. “They demand outdoor furniture that is beautiful, comfortable, and durable. They are purchasing fewer furniture groups in matching sets, and instead designing with a mix of items and materials that create a more sophisticated, layered space.”

In spite of what he sees as higher inflation, Blakeney has considerable optimism, particularly in the near term. “It’s well known that the pandemic has caused consumers to forgo normal vacations and spend more on their homes, especially on home furnishings,” he says. “Once the supply chains stabilize—most notably the limited supply of shipping containers from Asia—there will be even more opportunity. I don’t see this changing in 2021 unless economic or geopolitical issues push us off course.”

Thanks to dealers relaying customer preferences, Blakeney’s design team has heard requests for counter-height or balcony-height seating. Kingsley Bate responded this year with a new counterheight table and more counter stool options. These days, those design preferences frequently come with certain ethical considerations that more and more customers want to see.

For example, Blakeney says, “Most consumers prefer to buy products that are made with sustainability in mind, and for some consumers, this is their primary consideration. We take this matter very seriously and work hard to ensure that our teak wood is procured from responsible, sustainable sources.”

CASTELLE FURNITURE COMPANY Castelle Furniture Company (St. Augustine, Florida) offers 23 full collections covering a wide selection of designs and styles. Top sellers for 2021 are: Berkeley,

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 21

O UT D O O R F URNIT URE A ND K ITC HENS + ( $ ' 48$ 5 7 ( 5 6 Υ 9 4 4 9 8 t h S t re e t | R a n c ho Cucamonga, CA 91730 P h o n e : 9 0 9 . 9 8 9 . 9 9 7 7 | F a x : 9 0 9 . 9 8 9 . 9 9 7 0 | Toll Free: 866.964.4468 &+ , &$ * 2 6 + 2 : 5 2 2 0 Υ M e rc h a n dis e M a r t Suit e 1667 | Chicago, IL 60654 GEN SU N CA SUA L .CO M

9, 6 ,7 86 $7 7+( ,&)$ 3 5( 9 ,( : 6+2: Υ 68,7(

Circle Reader Service No. 23

product spotlight

Mia XL Sofa with tray + Ottoman with Chaise Cushion + Bellino from Ebel

Grand Terrace Deep Seating from Gensun

Monterey, Park Place, Antler Hill, and Villa Bianca. The top five designs run the gamut from traditional to contemporary, and Rory Rehmert, senior vice president of sales, boasts that they are all high quality and highly customizable.

“We have an internal design and development team that has worked together for a number of years,” Rehmert says. “Castelle brings to market desi gns that are not common.

Designs must be unique with details, which may be subtle, coming together to create a look that our targeted consumer seeks. Our furniture is built to high standards with seamless welds, unique finish treatments, and above all, eye appeal and comfort.”

With a target demographic of “high-end consumers seeking highquality luxury,” Castelle has cultivated striking designs featuring sti ll-popular earth tones with grays and blues

trending. On dominant trends, Rehmert explains: “Transitional designs are also trending now, and we continue to see strength in contemporary. The seating aspect of the business continues to trend well, combined with the element of fire providing year-round sales. Dining has trended up over the past 12 months as consumers are spending more time eating at home .”

Customers who make the jump to Castelle are buying what Rehmert characterizes as “high-quality, built-toorder” products and a highly customizable process that includes more than 20 hand-applied finish treatments. “Fabrics used are 100% acrylic and cover a broad spectrum of color and design,” Rehmert adds.

“Consumers also have the option to use any fabric they would like from a whole host of supplier s. Cushions can be customized with various foams,

24 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

buttons, welts, or no-welt to provide the desired look.”

EBEL INC. Even in the midst of the pandemic, with trade shows canceled in 2020, Ebel Inc. (Jacksonville, Florida) launched three new collections for the 2021 season. The first is called Canton, a "padded" group with opencell padding under the weave.

“There is no ‘cushion’ per se, but you still get a wonderful luxurious sit,” says Mark Bottemiller, national sales manager. “The padded or cushion-less trend is gaining a lot of traction. The Smoke and Hickory color, with richly textured weaves and hand-finished paint, really finishes the collection beautifully.”

The second collection is called Antibes, and it uses the same aluminum frame as Canton. Antibes is a traditional aluminum/wicker combi-

nation with a full cushion and a full selection of traditional deep seating, including a four-seat sofa and dining.

The final offering is called Mia, named for the late Mia Nault, who was a customer service rep at Ebel for 10 years and was tragically killed last spring. “The group was made even more special when Mia (the person) was acknowledged by the industry when she received the first ‘Unsung Hero Award’ at a virtual awar ds ceremony last fall,” Bottemiller says. “Mia (the collection) has new light gray weave, called Fog, made from 50% recycled ocean plastic—not just postconsumer recycled, but specifically ocean plastic.”

Feedback from the dealer base indicates that this strong nod to environmental concerns has resonated with customers and has indeed helped to close the sale. “People love the fact that the collection is elegant, beautiful, and made with recycled material,” Bottemiller says. “We also have some fun pieces in Mia like our XL sofa, and an ottoman that can be attached to a chair/sofa to create a sectional chaise.”

As for the long-term outlook of the industry, Bottemiller agrees that 2021 will remain hot, but he adds, “The real wildcard is going to be 2022 and 2023. The frenzy of 2020 and 2021 will almost certainly not continue once the world reopens, but to what extent will the market remain strong?

How much has our idea of ‘home’ changed?...I don't see a cliff coming, but I do see a more ‘normal’ season next year.”

SUMMER CLASSICS AND GABBY As an easy addition to existing furniture collections, Cast Stone Tables continue to perform well for Summer Classics and Gabby (Pelham, Alabama). The tables give what Chris Hutchens, creative director, calls a sense of style and personalization— offering consumers the design freedom to create a specific look for their outdoor spaces.

On another side of the design spectrum, the Italia Collection features a “very primitive” design, but with a functional twist. “The way we made this collection is by adding an element of comfort,” Hutchens says. “The knife edge cushions offer a thinner profile than most of our plush out-

Circle Reader Service No. 25

product spotlight

The Visions Collection from Lloyd Flanders, featuring loveseat, lounge chairs, end tables, and cocktail table in Matte White

door cushions, while not taking away from the simplicity of the collection.”

Over the last decade, social media has played a major role in helping consumers visualize the potential in their outdoor living spaces. Hutchens aims to provide the pieces of that puzzle, by “doing everything we can to ensure the use of authentic, real materials in our new designs, while keeping functionally and comfort top-of-mind for our furniture.”

Educating customers on the importance o f durability, style, and comfort is a prime motivator when it comes time to invest in high-end furniture.

Making the indoor/outdoor connection also resonates, and it’s a concept that Hutchens encourages. “Being innovative with materials like outdoor rugs, performance fabrics, and throw pillows is evolving to align with the luxury people expect from indoor furnishings,” he says. “We take pride in staying ahead of industry trends and remaining abreast of the most innovative products out there. People want storage, comfort, beautiful pieces, outdoor rugs, and performance pillows that

are durable and can withstand the elements.”

Hutchens agrees with colleagues who point out that pandemic-related sheltering-in-place pushed outdoor spaces to the forefront. That thinking may diminish, but it won’t go away. “We want more outdoor in our day-to-day life,” he says. “People have taken this opportunity to heart and prioritized that part of outdoor living.”

APRICITY BY AGIO Modern designs and clean lines continue to fare well at Apricity by Agio (Virginia Beach, Virginia), but the strongest performers feature designs that combine mixed materials such as aluminum with woven panels.

Todd Wingrove, vice president of sales, describes these as a cross between transitional and modern.

The theme of transition applies to new home construction and the growing desire to extend the indoor space outdoors. Larger seating groups with fire pits are generally the focal point of these spaces, and the Agio design team has made it easy for buyers to visualize the possibilities with 3D models in specific settings.

Baby boomers are the mainstay demographic, followed by a fast-growing segment of millennials buying their first homes.

“Our focus is on building a quality product that will have good reviews and satisfied customers,” Wingrove says. “Our best success has been to focus Seaside teak chair with suspension on the middle price points seating and NorthCape’s popular vs. low cost products with cushion seat size complemented with Sunbrella Cast Horizon fabric limited life span.” cushions Gray tones and everpopular earth tones remain trendy on base cloths.

Agio spices it up with pops of color in the accent pillows, which can be easily updated without changing the furniture. The looks are resonating across the country, and Wingrove believes the “future of the outdoor industry continues to look very promising with demand at unprecedented levels.” He attributes the demand to people choosing to upgrade the outdoor space in an effort to enjoy their time at home— and this applies to new homes and existing homes.

With demand at an “all-time high,” Wingrove estimates that sales will remain hot for the foreseeable future and dealers should push hard while it lasts.

“There has not been a seasonal lag, which you typically experience between seasons,” he says. “The surge started last summer, has not slowed, and there is no sign it will let up in the near future.”

Monterra sectional/ deep seating from OW Lee

26 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

GENSUN Best sellers at Gensun (Rancho Cucamonga, California) remain the company’s legacy collections,

Circle Reader Service No. 27

product spotlight

Italia Collection from Summer Classics

specifically Grand Terrace, Florence, and Bel Air. As a mainstay for many dealers across the country, Gray Dobbins, director of sales, notes that these top sellers continue to do well because they “speak to the beauty and timeless design that only cast aluminum can provide.”

An additional advantage is that they are complete collections, allowing dealers to carry a diverse array of cushioned dining, deep seating, sling, padded sling, and woven dining—all complementing each other. Dobbins is counting on recent releases of Echelon (a transitional sling and padded sling group) and Treviso, a transitional cast and woven collection, to build on the momentum.

Members of the “established homeowner” demographic have embraced Gensun. Usually in their late 30s and older, they have typically owned outdoor furniture before and are looking to get more for their dollar in comfort and longevity. “The Pandemic has raised awareness of the importance of the outdoor space and consumers are buying quality because they are using the furniture more than ever,” Dobbins says.

“Our niche in the market is design, quality, and above all, customer service.”

Gensun is known primarily as a “premium” product company that is willing to special order non-warehoused products. With trends “allover the place,” Dobbins believes this flexibility is crucial to the company’s success. “While transitional is the key phase in today’s lexicon, traditional styles are making a resurgence,” he says. “I see it in our sales.

Newer transitional-styled products and traditional groups are both growing in popularity for Gensun.”

Dobbins believes in transparency with partner dealers and reveals inven-

tory numbers with the dealer base “so that dealers may see on a semiweekly basis what we have.” Dealers may also buy products in the fall and winter, and pay for them in the spring and summer.

C.R. PLASTIC PRODUCTS For a growing number of consumers, sustainability has transcended mere “fun fact” status and instead has been placed at or near the top of Wexler MGP Sling the list when making buying Porch Rocker from decisions. Meaghan Telescope Casual Robinson, director of sales & marketing at C.R. Plastic Products design and boast our 25-year limited (Stratford, Ontario), calls it nothing warranty like all of our outdoor prodless than a “huge trend toward conucts. We also have a new Modern sumers wanting to purchase products Adirondack and Glider that l aunched this year.” that are sustainable, good for the enviOne of C.R. Plastic’s newest prodronment, and North American made.” uct lines is the Tofino Collection, a In short, people want to know deep seating offering that has received where their products are made and positive reviews from customers. how (and with what) they are fashDescribed as simple, sleek, and conioned. “With the prevalence and urgency of climate-related issues, sustemporary, the collection is entirely tainable products and companies are modular so customers can customize top of mind for consumers,” Robinson the set depending on the outdoor says. “Sustainability is at the core of space. “What I love about it is the verwho we are and what we do at C.R. satility both in design and functionaliPlastics. We are committed to manuty,” Robinson says. “Depending on the frame and color combination, it facturing the highest quality, sustaincan look coastal and waterfront ready able outdoor furniture and continuing while at the same time it can take on a to keep millions of pounds of plastic simple, traditional look just by changout of North American landfills.” ing up the frame and fabric colors.”

C.R. Plastic Products lives that environmental ethos with its best-selling flagship Adirondack Chairs.

LLOYD FLANDERS INC. “They are the ultimate in comfort and The Visions Collection from Lloyd have a unique fit and finish that is Flanders Inc. (Menominee, Michigan) made possible by our vertically inteis new for 2021, but early results are grated manufacturing process,” promising, with Jess Flanders, vice Robinson says. “They have a timeless president of marketing, already calling

28 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

it a hot s eller. Visions combines contemporary design with the deep comfort that consumers are craving.

Additional new offerings in 2021 are: The Fairview Collection, The Essence Collection, The Elevation Collection, and new padded loom options for the Reflections Collection.

According to Flanders, Reflections remains the company’s top-selling loom group. “Its timeless styling and iconic comfort make it a perennial favorite of consumers and designers,” she says. “With 20 finish options, three back cushion options, and now the choice of having a cushion or padded loom tight seat, Reflections is also one of our most versatile groups.”

In the highly competitive furniture category, Lloyd Flanders features the added benefit of multiple frame colors. Jess Flanders explains the rationale: “Too many consumers comment that it is hard to differentiat e between the offerings that are on the market today, and we seek to help our dealers stand out from the crowd through 20 frame color options and more than 700 fabric selections. We’re also proud to be the only domestic manufacturer of outdoor wicker in the industry.”

For Lloyd Flanders, options abound for dealers and customers alike, with plenty of demand in the offing to fuel what should be solid sales to round out the year. “The outdoor living industry will continue to thrive as homeowners embrace their outdoor spaces as an essential part of daily life, and not just an occasional place for entertaining or downtime,” Flanders says. “We'll continue to see a push toward functionality—furniture that not only looks good, but is also comfortable and durable as outdoor spaces become a mainstay of daily life.

Furniture that is versatile will be big; think chat groups that serve as lounge seating or casual dining.”

WINSTON FURNITURE COMPANY The Harper Collection is the newest offering from the Winston Furniture Company (Haleyville, Alabama).

Evoking elements of watercraft, the collection features ultra-durable poly

Circle Reader Service No. 29

product spotlight

Muirlands Cushion from Tropitone

resin planks.

According to Wesley Campbell, vice president of marketing, the items are inspired by teak boat decking and all-weather aluminum frames for maintenance-free seating that is ready to withstand the harshest outdoor conditions.

“Matching planked tables The Berkeley complete the look Collection from and are available Castelle Furniture in a variety of sizes and heights,” Campbell says. “This collection is available in multiple fin ishes and plank colors via our Special Order program, plus we stock it in one finish and plank color in our Quick Ship program. We added the popular Palazzo Collection to our Quick Ship program for 2021 and has also sold very well.”

Founded more than 45 years ago, Winston has a rich history of producing high quality products at affordable price points. Several finish and fabric options are available via the Special Order program and Campbell stocks “a number of highvelocity items in our popular Quick Ship program shipping from our facility in Haleyville. We really have something for everyone and the flexibility of this approach has been very popular with our dealers.”

Winston launched an all-new curated fabric book to support Special Order programs that includes fabrics and slings from Bella Dura, Outdura, Phifertex, Sunbrella, and Textilene.

The high-tech fabrics feed the growing trend toward outdoor styles with an indoor feel, mainly due to what Campbell describes as “ultra-com-

30 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

fortable furniture made with original details, customizable finishes, and resort-grade materials.”

TELESCOPE CASUAL FURNITURE Best-selling collections at Telescope Casual Furniture (Granville, New York) include Wexler sling and cushion and Belle Isle sling and cushion offerings. “Both are made from HDPE or mixed media,” says Matt Pisani, national sales manager, “which is unique to the outdoor market.”

With outdoor spaces increasingly becoming extensions of the indoor space, Telescope Casual is capitalizing on the trend with more refined designs and multiple options (frame color and fabrics) to allow homeowners to customize t heir outdoor space.

“We are always trying to design with functionality in mind,” Pisani says. “We make furniture out of both aluminum and HDPE. Most companies are one or the other, and our ability to marry the two materials makes us stand out. We are also one of the few 100% American manufactured companies, which allows us to offer made-to-order furniture and fast lead times.”

Pisani is seeing a lot of customers who are interested in large 8- to 10-person dining sets or chat/conversation cushions with fire tables or coffee tables. “The traditional four-person dining table is less popular these days,” he says. “As for colors, we have noticed a variety of gray tones are in high demand.”

Pisani predicts a continued focus on outdoor areas over the next several years, and expects a migration of people leaving the city to buy homes will only increase demand. To deal with this demand, Telescope relies on Sunbrella which provides “a lot of exclusive fabrics.”

“We have a very attractive early buy/stock program offering customers large discount incentives and dating payment terms into the spring and summer,” Pisani adds. “As an American manufacturer, we offer fast deliveries and three-week lead time s on made-to-order items. All our customer service, warranty, parts, and sales offices are in the same building, so we pride ourselves on our level of customer service quality.”

OW LEE Last year, OW Lee (Comfort, Texas) released a new collection called Avana, as well as a smaller group dubbed Urban Scale. Familiar top sellers are still the Monterra Collection and the company’s venerable fire pits. “Monterra is about 12 years old now, and has become our signature chair,” says Leisa McCollister, vice president of marketing. “It is an extremely comfortable chair, and timeless. Fire pits continue to do well. We got in the fire pit game early and were able to get a lot of market share.”

Other product offerings have taken shape in recent years, quickly gathering momentum. At the beginning of the 2010s, for example, modern, clean line styles were still something of a niche market.

McCollister acknowledges that, “Now it’s what everybody wants.”

Specialty retail stores and residential and commercial designers rely on OW Lee to cater primarily to baby boomers, but the Gen X and millennials are also emerging as important demographics. All demographics appreciate what McCollister calls the “full package of style, quality, value, and customer service.” That service extends to dealer businesses that appreciate OW Lee’s family-owned ethos.

OW Lee’s nimble culture extends to style and color, allowing designers to respond to color and design trends. McCollister declares that brown is coming back, but adds, “The undertones are more yellow than red this time, it seems. Beige is huge, and cooler-tone grays are declining. Consumers today are most interested in a more laid-back, modern, eclectic look.”

McCollister believes customer enthusiasm will continue, at least in the foreseeable future. “More than ever, people see their home as a sanctuary,” she says. “The backyard even more so. Orders have not slowed down since the reopening of retail last spring.

At some point, supply will catch up and demand will wane, but I think it’s a long time off. We are all extremely lucky to be in this industry.”

Jetset MGP Collection

The perfect maintenance free collection to complement your own backyard oasis or your favorite commercial retreat.

www.TelescopeCasual.com

Circle Reader Service No. 31

hearth retailer

Jodie Breece, Ray Duhon, Dorothy Duhon

StellarService Texas retailer does whatever it takes to help customers, from devastating snowstorms to stunning installations.

T

WRITTEN BY KIMBERLY RODGERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN HUNTER/BLACK CREEK PICTURES

he terrible storms that slammed Texas this winter—causing once-in-a-lifetime snow totals, damaging ice, and freezing temperatures—resulted in statewide power outages and boil-water notices. Without heat, thousands of residents relied on their fireplaces to provide warmth and a much-needed cooking source.

In one day, Churchill’s Fireside & Patio (Austin, Texas), received over 60 voice mails from people asking for help on how to safely operate their fireplaces. Due to the state’s normally warm temperatures and mild winters, many homeowners had not ever used their fireplaces, and there were many questions on how to operate them during the emergency.

The store’s co-owners, Ray Duhon, Dorothy Duhon, and Jodie Breece, were working extremely long

32 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

days during the week of the storms to help as many people as possible. Phone calls were returned well into the evening. “Whether we could help them or not, we wanted people to know we cared,” Dorothy Duhon says. Breece adds, “We were on the phone 12 hours a day instructing people how to start their pilot lights or operate their battery back-ups.”

Many people expressed their gratitude and let Churchill’s know their fireplaces saved their lives that week. “It was very rewarding, and we received great joy from helping people—that is really who we are every day,” Breece says.

Ray Duhon started in the hearth industry years ago when he began installing gas logs for a nationwide chain of fireplace stores and moved up the ranks to district manager. Eventually, the chain folded and, in 1988,

some investors started a smaller group of Texas-based fireplace stores and asked Ray to run the Austin location—which always had a strong hearth market.

Dorothy, who still had another full-time position in retail, worked in the store unpaid on the weekends. She named it Churchill’s Fireside & Patio after the high school she attended in San Antonio. “The owners wanted a classy, British name,” Dorothy says. In 2002, Ray and Dorothy purchased the store.

“We always ran the store like we owned it, so when we bought it, we didn’t even have to close the doors,” Dorothy says. From the beginning, Churchill’s was successful with much of the store’s prosperity attributed to Ray, who is renowned for his distinctive gas log set installations. “Ray has a way of making gas fires look very real. There is an art to the stack and he definitely

With a wide range of hearth products offered, Churchill’s can meet any design need.

Whether it’s selling a fireplace or patio furniture, Churchill’s helps clients envision beautiful spaces for their homes.

has a signature install,” Breece says.

Dorothy adds, “It is Ray’s eye and talent for realistic gas log installations that made us famous.”

Breece first met Dorothy and Ray many years ago when both women worked together in the fashion industry. Although their careers moved them in different directions, the three remained friends and stayed in touch.

In 2017, after 15 years with Saks Fifth Avenue in New York City, where she ran many major categories for the luxury department store chain, Breece started her own high-end design firm.

She eventually decided to move herself and her business to Florida.

However, Breece had a serendipitous

phone call with Dorothy—the day she found out the closing was delayed on her New York co-op, thereby preventing her from moving to Florida. “She said Churchill’s was growing and she and Ray could use some assistance with running the store,” Breece says. With nothing holding her to Florida, Breece changed course and drove straight to Austin the next day.

“I had an extensive background in luxury retail but nothing in hearth, so I jumped in and started learning.” She picked up the business by listening, researching, and heeding the teachings from Dorothy and Ray. “Both have an amazing wealth of knowledge,” Breece says. “Dorothy is very pragmatic and is

always on the safe side to be aware of certain issues which can come up with an installation.”

EXPERIENTIAL RETAIL Churchill differentiates itself from the usual patio and fireplace retailer in the store’s interaction with potential buyers. The goal is to create a personal level of conversation with clients on what they ultimately want to feel when they are in a space.

“We want to relate to our customers and start by asking them many questions about how they live and are using the space,” Breece says. “For example, are they having a glass of wine or reading a book by the fire or is this where the fam-

ily gathers?” This level of conversation and service, Breece believes, is usually not happening in a typical retail store.

“We want to elevate the Churchill’s sales experience to a more thought-out level of service with the focus on creating an enjoyable experience for our customers.”

Churchill’s is a very service-oriented business and there is no hard sell—a philosophy established by Dorothy and Ray early on and built into the store’s DNA. Whether it’s selling fireplace products or patio furniture, Churchill’s helps clients envision their spaces into the future by creating a master plan, even if they don’t purchase products from Churchill’s.

“We spend our customers’ money like it is our own and are always looking out for their best interests. We never try to oversell,” Dorothy says. Breece adds, “We truly are honored to be trusted to contribute to our customer’s homes and their relaxation.”

Educating the consumer is paramount as the hearth industry is a difficult one to navigate with many intimidating but essential elements involved.

For most people, Breece says, “Researching a fireplace on the internet or social media can often be misleading for consumers.” In general, she says, the hearth segment is scary for people.

“Think about it—we literally work with gas and fire.” Therefore, Churchill’s creates a non-intimidating environment for its customers. Above all, honestly, integrity, and treating everyone with respect remain the key considerations when working with any client.

Well before what has been termed Snowmageddon 2021, Churchill’s was

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 33

hearth retailer already very busy selling and installing a variety of fire products including: fireplaces, firepits, gas log sets, doors, screens, and mantels. In addition, the store has a strong and growing outdoor category with sales of casual furniture picking up steam. “We benefited from people spending money on their own oasis at home since nobody could travel,” Breece says.

Churchill’s reputation has been built by providing a combination of value and service to its customers across all the brands it carries. To that end, the store has developed strong partnerships with a variety of fireplace and patio manufacturers which align with the retailer’s high standards and value system of excellent service.

In hearth this includes: Ecosmart Fire, Majestic, Mason-Lite, Modern Flames, Napoleon, and Ortal. The store does a big business in gas log sets from Golden Blount, Grand Canyon, American Gas Logs, Rasmussen, and R.H. Peterson. Doors, enclosures, and decorative screens from Stoll Industries are also very popular. Outdoor furniture

includes: Mallin, Summer Classics, Telescope Casual, and Winston.

Always on the lookout for new and innovative products, Breece comments, “Our circle of trust is very small. We don’t date a lot of people.” All of the store’s vendor partners provide a great deal of support when needed, especially for a big installation or commercial project. “I also give our vendors a lot of credit for helping me to learn the industry and the additional training provided to our team,” she adds.

Merchandising continues to expand to try and evolve the look and feel of the store’s 3,000-square-foot showroom.

However, Breece notes, “We are very confident we can meet any design need, in aesthetics and size, with the fireplace lines we have right now.”

Fireplace sales cater to a healthy 60/40 mix between linear and traditional design. “Napoleon is offering some fantastic new traditional fireboxes (Altitude X and Elevation X Series), and Ortal has a new Wilderness Collection, which is phenomenal.” The line features the

A mainstay in Austin for over three decades, the retailer’s name and reputation continue to bring customers through the showroom doors.

industry’s first ultra-realistic gas fireplace. Churchill’s is the exclusive dealer in Austin for Ortal.

The business has certainly prospered from the explosive growth Austin has seen over the last decade. Statistics show the town’s population increased 32% between 2009 and 2018. Ultimately, it is Churchill’s reputation for providing exceptional value and service, which continues to bring customers through the showroom doors. In fact, there is no need for any traditional form of marketing. “Our name and reputation are our only forms of advertisement,” Breece

Circle Reader Service No. 34

34 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

says. “We really try and assist people to help figure out their needs and always have a happy-to-help mentality.”

Dorothy adds, “We are gracious to everyone, regardless of what they are buying, and acknowledge they are important. If we are unable to help them with a particular need, we refer them to someone who can.” She says she will even direct people to other places or to an online resource if Churchill’s can’t help or doesn’t have product. “One sale is not going to break us and the people we help in this way will tell others that Churchill’s cares.”

Circle Reader Service No. 35

outdoor grilling

Iowa-based The Grill Works is a favorite shop for outdoor cooking fans.

NovelNiche An Iowa couple builds a booming retail business after finding a gap in the marketplace.

WRITTEN BY MAURA KELLER PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN DRAEGER/DRAEGER PHOTOGRAPHY

B

Lisa and Brian Gilliatt

36 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

ack in the 1960s and even through the 1980s, when homeowners wanted a gas grill installed and serviced in their backyard, they often turned to the local gas company.

For Lisa Gilliatt and her husband, Brian, owners of The Grill Works in Marion, Iowa, their store was established after their local gas company, where Brian worked, discontinued offering gas grill installation and servicing.

“The Grill Works was ‘born’ in 1997 after the local gas company, which had installed Charmglow Natural Gas Grills and Lights, discontinued their service,” Lisa Gilliatt says. “My husband operated the business out of our home for the first 10+ years and the business really focused on repairing these Charmglow grills and replacing the grills, if necessary.”

In 2009, the Gilliatts were approached by the Chicago-based company, Gaslight, where the couple had been purchasing their parts from, to buy their business. Gaslight was a distributor of grills and parts to hardware stores across the United States.

“Our parents were in the process of retir-

ing, but they did not want to stop working, so we purchased the business and moved it to Marion, Iowa, and opened our storefront,” Gilliatt says. “When our store first opened, our vision was to sell grills and parts, but we recognized we needed to find a reason for our customers to keep coming back, so we also carried a small amount of accessories, sauces, and rubs.”

And the rest, as they say, is history. During the last 24 years, The Grill Works has continued to evolve to become a full-service grill specialty store with expanded offerings and new products, rather than a distributorship.

“We were excited to learn last year that we are one of the largest dealers in the United States for Green Mountain Wood Pellet Grills, sold in a single store location,” Gilliatt says.

“We carry many, many accessories for pellet grills and grilling in general, including Grill Grates, Thermoworks, and Victorinox, as well as a variety of pellet chips and chunks.” The store also features nearly 300 sauces and rubs, including well-known brands such as Blues

“We also have all of our sauces in the fridge so they can sample those as well.

In addition, we carry MHP Grills, Big Green Egg, Memphis Grills, and Gateway Drum Smokers.” want to try something new, we can access their profile to make the appropriate recommendation for them.”

Expanding on the customer service side of the business, The Grill Works also offers “tried and true” recipes on cards, using products from the store. Some of the company’s most popular recipes are smoked pretzels and smoked mac and cheese.

“We also sponsor a competition BBQ team and they provide complimentary monthly classes featuring ribs, brisket, chicken, fish, pizza, prime rib, etc.

We have a presentation table with a mirror above to enhance viewing as well as a sound system so attendees can hear the instructors,” Gilliatt says. “We show

The Grill Works boasts a large Big Green Egg inventory for passionate Eggheads.

Hog, Killer Hog, Kosmos, Meat Church, and unique products the Gilliatts have discovered over the years.

“We offer samples of all of our rubs right on the shelf so we can help our customers find the perfect flavors,” Gilliatt says. “We also have all of our sauces in the fridge so they can sample those as well. In addition, we carry MHP Grills, Big Green Egg, Memphis Grills, and Gateway Drum Smokers.”

When the Gilliatts first opened their store, they made the decision to sell products they knew that they could stand behind. And while The Grill Works may not offer a grill for every customer who walks in the door, depending on their budget, the lines they do carry are perfect for the customer who is tired of replacing their grill every few years.

“They expect to pay more for a quality grill and for our service,” Gilliatt says. “All of the grills we sell have warranties—some lifetime—and we service all of the products we sell. We have three technicians on staff who assemble our grills, and service the grills if necessary.

In addition to providing high-end grill products that their customers can depend upon, The Grill Works team prides itself on exceptional customer service, which is evident from the solid customer reviews on its social media platforms.

“We have very engaged customers,” Gilliatt says.

“When we post a question on Facebook about what people are cooking on a Saturday, it is not unusual to have 60+ customers respond and post pictures of their cooks. It is not just about selling a grill here—we are establishing a relationship with our customer. We know they will be back for pellets, charcoal, wood, sauces, rubs, etc., so we keep profiles on each of our customers in order to know what products they have used in the past. This way, when they come in and

The pandemic has led to an increase in demand for highend smokers and grills.

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 37

outdoor grilling

them how to select, trim, prep and prepare the meat.

At the end of the class, we provide samples of what we have prepared. Typically, we have 60+ attendees at our classes, which are held outdoors.”

The Gilliatts also hold an annual open house in May, National BBQ Month, where they offer samples, grilling demonstrations, seminars, samples, and more samples. “It’s just a very fun customer appreciation day,” Gilliatt says.

The Grill Works is one of the largest dealers in the U.S. for Green Mountain Wood Pellet Grills, sold in a single store location.

Circle Reader Service No. 38

38 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

MAKING A NAME These customer service efforts have helped build The Grill Works’ popularity among grilling customers, and it’s evident through the “word-of-mouth” marketing and promotion that the customers do for the store.

“Our customers are very loyal and really sing our praises to their family and friends,” Gilliatt says. “We may be a very small store, but we are very big on customer satisfaction, which reflects in the number of repeat customers and referrals provided by our customers.

In an effort to remain “top of mind” for customers, The Grill Works provided one of the area’s most popular DJs a Green Mountain Wood Pellet Grill. “He constantly talks about it on the radio. It is amazing how many customers come in and say they heard about us on the radio station, KHAK,” Gilliatt says.

In addition to having established a memorable brand, Gilliatt says they are very fortunate to have a fantastic staff to help customers. Many of their staff members were customers first, and through the experience they had at the store, decided they wanted to be part of The Grill Works’ success. “It makes a difference to have staff members who are excited about the products they sell.”

The Grill Works team also doesn’t just send customers out the door with a grill in a box. Rather, they assemble the grill for them, do the initial burn to make sure everything is functioning properly so that when they get the grill home, they are able to start cooking right away. “We also go through the grill with the customers, so they know how to operate it, keep it clean, and take care of it,” Gilliatt says.

So what does the future of the grilling industry look like from the eyes of someone running a small grill shop in America’s Heartland? Last year, due to the pandemic, The Grill Works experienced 56% growth compared to the previous year. Gilliatt notes that with the current world we are living in, people may not feel comfortable eating out, so many are dining and entertaining at home. As a result, she sees this trend continuing in the future.

With many people working from home, they have the time to be able to experiment with new methods of cooking they had not considered in the past. They appreciate the personal attention The Grill Works team offers them when they come in to provide them step-by-step instruction on how to prepare meat and help them find, by sampling, the perfect rub and sauce.

“If there is one positive outcome to the pandemic, it is that it has reunited families,” Gilliatt says. “With the innovative accessories that are available for our grills, grilling is more than just a method of cooking, it is a form of entertainment. I love the excitement of our customers when their experience here exceeds their expectations.”

Circle Reader Service No. 39

showroom showcase

Kevin Pierini

Reaping theRewards S

ummerset Superstore recently discovered its deep strength and resolve— accidentally. The popular specialty patio retailer based in Costa Mesa, California, opened a new location in 2020 at the height of the pandemic and it has managed to not only make it through, but the store is flourishing.

General Manager Kevin Pierini explains: “We had a plan, and nothing was going to stop us.

Retailers have to be risk-takers if they are going to make it through the ups and downs of the economy, and this time it paid off for us.”

For the past seven years, Summerset Superstore has steadily built its reputation in affluent Orange County as the one-stop-shop for everything patio from outdoor kitchens to spas, patio furniture, umbrellas, and heaters.

“We have it all, which is something that our market was missing at the time we opened,” Pierini says.

40 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Opening a second store during the pandemic was a risk worth taking for California retailer.

BY SHARON SANDERS PHOTOGRAPHY BY LILY FASSNACHT

Summerset Superstore boasts the largest outdoor living showroom in Orange County, California. Pictured: its newest location in Anaheim.

Inspiration awaits with the latest furniture and firepit designs.

The store manufactures its own line of custom outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and firepits that have become favorites of customers looking for something unique. Last year, the HGTV home remodel series, “Property Brothers,” featured Summerset’s custom products in several episodes. “The show gave viewers a look at what we are capable of doing and, because the brothers are designers using current trends, styles, and colors, it shined a light on the fact that Summerset is in touch with what’s trending in outdoor living.”

As the business grew and matured, Pierini decided the time was right to open a second store. It took two years to find just the right spot with a building big enough to house his vision for the new location that included a 13,500-square-foot showroom, on-site manufacturing facility to build Summerset’s custom products, and a large warehouse space. The new Anaheim location is 20 miles north of the original store. “It checked off all the boxes for what we needed to take the next step for our business.”

Plans for the new store were progressing smoothly when the pandemic hit in March 2020. Pierini secured the lease the day before California issued its statewide stay-at-home order. He was determined that the turn of events wasn’t going to stop Summerset from moving forward with its plans. “Our philosophy has always been to go big or go home.”

Some vendors thought he was crazy to open a new store when the future was so uncertain—but it didn’t shake Pierini at all. By the time the store was ready to open its doors in

Summerset Superstore’s custom outdoor kitchens transform outdoor living spaces.

September, he was confident it was going to do well because business was booming in the Costa Mesa showroom. “I knew the demand was there because we could hardly keep product in stock.” He was right. Anaheim ended up logging the same amount of foot traffic as Costa Mesa the first few weeks of being open. “We hit all of our projections the first month.”

Both of the stores closely adhered to the local PPE requirements to make the shopping experience comfortable for customers—including an option to make personal appointments before and after regular business hours.

“During the day, we had salespeople meet customers at the door and accompany them through their shopping experience, which was a big hit.”

Pierini used a digital marketing and a social media campaign to help spread the word in the community, but felt

that the mere sight of the big, new patio store was its best advertising.

“No one was sure how long the stayat-home order was going to be in place, so they were anxious to update their backyards with anything they could get their hands on at the time.”

One of Summerset’s biggest strengths has always been its customer service—and the pandemic put that commitment to the test. “The customer is always right, and we spare no expense to prove it,” says Pierini, but the difficulty getting product during the pandemic brought satisfying customers to a whole new level.

“Lead times were (and are) so unpredictable that we have to be in close communication with our customers, assuring them that we are doing everything possible to get their orders quickly,” Pierini explains, adding that customers just need to feel

like someone cares. “Sometimes it means offering to waive delivery charges or throw in extra chemicals for a spa that’s on back order, but little things like that go a long way when people are feeling frazzled.”

The staff continues to be unwavering in their commitment to customers, even though it takes more problem solving and effort. “I think the way we handled service through the pandemic has given us many new lifelong customers because we took care of them when they needed us most.”

With 2020 in the rear-view mirror, Pierini looks back with no regrets. “I would say the fact that we opened our new store during the pandemic has been a good thing. My heart goes out to the businesses who were not able to survive. We are one of the fortunate ones because of the

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 41

showroom showcase industry we are a part of.”

Among many other things, the timing for bringing all of Summerset’s product manufacturing in-house under one roof couldn’t have worked out better. Up to last year, everything was made in a separate facility.

“We were able to continue In-house manufacturing our manufacturing with very means customers little disruption because we receive orders faster. had the staff, parts, and space supplier’s fabric book with the underwe needed—we didn’t have to rely on standing that the lead times can be an outside vendor,” Pierini explains. In greatly extended. the long-term, it will save time, money, and make manufacturing and delivery “We have control over every aspect more efficient. of the manufacturing process now,” To better position itself in the marPierini says. “Customers can get their ket, Summerset made two big investorders more quickly, and we can give ments for 2021. One, it branded its them constant updates, if needed, own furniture line, and two (with the because we know exactly what’s going extended lead times and fabric shorton at all times.” ages), it invested in the equipment to Both stores continue to be tremendously busy. “The tempo is much faster manufacture its own cushions in-house. than what we’re used to. It’s like Customers now have the option to Memorial Day weekend, every day,” select from Summerset’s fabric book listing in-stock fabrics or pick from a Pierini says. “We’ve cross-trained our

Summerset invested in equipment to make its own cushions in-house.

employees so they can help where they are needed most at any given time. It’s created a lot of unity with our staff.”

Pierini expects that the new way of working will continue indefinitely because it raises the level of customer service in every area of the business. He is curious to see what happens over the next few months, which are historically some of the busiest.

“Initially, we were caught off guard, because we didn’t know how to deal with the increase in business, but we are now prepared for whatever comes our way.” The Anaheim warehouse is stocked up and ready to go for at-once orders. “We bought a lot more prod-

Circle Reader Service No. 42

42 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

uct than we’ve ever stocked in the past, but I think that is a good strategy for us. Customers are tired of having to wait for orders, so it is going to give us an advantage.”

Over the next year, Pierini expects that people will still be hesitant to travel and choose to continue staying close to home instead. “The outdoor living industry is seeing unprecedented growth right now, and retailers are in the position to help customers create a place where their family feels comfortable and safe. We need to have patience and be problem solvers more than ever before because we need to be there when our customers need us. That is our plan.”

Circle Reader Service No. 43

as i see it

Greener isBetter POLYWOOD’S eco-friendly designs are a hit with customers who desire sustainable products.

BY SHARON SANDERS

POLYWOOD has been in the business of helping people cre-

ate beautiful, livable spaces since 1990.

As the originator of the outdoor industry’s recycled lumber furniture category, the Syracuse, Indiana-based company continues to lead the way in sustainability, design, and durability. Patio & Hearth Products Report recently spent some time with Megan Pierson, senior vice president of busine ss development, to tap into the latest company news and find out how POLYWOOD plans to continue meeting the changing needs of the marketplace.

How did POLYWOOD make a name for itself?

Pierson: The Adirondack chair was our first product to gain widespread popularity, and we grew it from there.

Today, it’s still our signature product

Colorful fire set

and is a best seller. We have since expanded in many other categories that give us a c omplete lineup of furniture.

To keep up with the demand of our market, we have expanded our Adirondack choices as well. We now offer 13 basic options with three different back styles: classic, shell back, and a square modern look. We also offer different heights and a folding version that is easy to store.

every part of the world, and we want to be a part of the solution. Our company mission is to recover and transform landfill-bound and ocean-bound plastic into durable outdoor furniture that will last for generations. It is the driving force behind everything we do and create at POLYWOOD. We strive for excellence from the sourcing of our own raw materials to delivering a beautiful new furniture set.

What is the POLYWOOD philosophy?

Pierson: While we have a tremendous passion for making quality products, at our core, POLYWOOD is a company that wants to do something meaningful for the environment. Pollution affects

Why does recycled lumber furniture appeal to so many consumers?

Pierson: Consumers purchase outdoor recycled furniture for many reasons and durability tops the list.

Genuine POLYWOOD furniture stands up to anything, making it ideal for any climate. It’s also easy to maintain with no painting, staining or wa terproofing needed—wipe it down with a damp cloth and that’s it. We’ve found that once people give recycled lumber furniture a try, it’s hard to go back to anything else. Lately, more than ever before, sustainability is also in the forefront of consumers’ minds. They love that POLYWOOD takes oceanand landfill-bound plastic from the environment and turns it into longlasting furniture.

Vineyard 4-piece bench set

44 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

What is the latest news a bout your recycling initiatives?

Pierson: Last year, in addition to our landfill-bound recycling, we created an ocean-bound plastic initiative to help clean up plastic waste that is streaming into the oceans. It is a big issue in many countries because there are no local facilities to recycle the waste. We have partnered with a company that operates mostly in Haiti and Indonesia to help.

They hire locals to collect plastic and then they ship it to our recycling facility in Indiana. We sort, clean, and turn the raw materials into lumber for our furniture. For 2020, we committed to recycling 1 million pounds of plastic, and we are growing upon that for this year.

How has POLYWOOD grown/changed in recent years?

Pierson: POLYWOOD is always looking for new ways to design and create different aesthetics. There are new technologies that allow us to offer sleek designs and aesthetics that weren’t attainable even five years ago. We have a full lineup of products from rocking chairs and chaise lounges to tables, swings, and gliders—and we even have a kids collection. We most recently added deep seating and fire pit tables, both of which have been extremely popular. We

Circle Reader Service No. 45

as i see it also introduced a vintage finish for select products. It has a wire brush texture and a more matte appearance than our classic finish. It’s available in White, Sahara, and Coffee colors.

What new product introductions are you most excited about for 2021?

Pierson: For this year, we are excited to introduce a beautiful new modular sectional. One area of opportunity that we found as more families are gathering outdoors was the desire for larger seating groups, so our sectionals fit the bill. The collection also features a dining group and chaise lounge accessory that was thoughtfully designed, based on feedback we received from our specialty retailers. We are also very excited to launch our expanded fabric selections that include a new collaboration for this year with Rev olution Fabrics and Shayla Copas Interiors.

How is POLYWOOD partnering with retailers to help them grow their business?

Pierson: Specialty retailers are a priority for POLYWOOD. We continue to offer them access to expanded assortments, such as customized fabric options and products to help set them apart from other retailers.

We have adapted our business model to ensure specialty retailers are set up for success all season long, by supporting them with strong digital tools and shipping directly to their customers when needed.

Modern 3-piece curve back Adirondack set

What do you think the future holds for the recycled lumber furniture category?

Pierson: The current environment has made finding ways to safely gather a top priority. The ability to easily disinfect surfaces is super important to consumers and recycled lumber is the ideal answer. It’s not porous so it doesn’t harbor germs, and it can be completely sanitized by wiping it clean with a disinfectant—it can even be power washed. We believe beautiful, durable, low maintenance, made-in-America products will continue to be important to our customers and the category.

With people spending more time outdoors year-round, do you think that’s increasing demand for all-weather recycled lumber furniture?

Pierson: We are seeing more people invest in their own homes by creating beautiful outdoor areas. It’s a place to spend quality time with loved ones while

Circle Reader Service No. 46

46 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

unwinding from their day. Several generations of family are coming together outdoors with a renewed sense of connection, and people deserve furniture that lasts into the next generation beyond just their memories. We remain committed to providing that as a company.

How has the increased interest in yearround outdoor living affected your business and products?

Pierson: It has changed the category. We used to bring on more seasonal employees and now we employ more people year-round because the demand for outdoor furniture is always there. Another opportunity that has arisen is more customers are interested in deep seating groups paired with fire pit tables so they can be warm and cozy while lounging by the fire in the colder months. We offer several deep seating conversation sets including the Braxton, Vineyard, and Harbour.

What does the future hold for POLYWOOD? Pierson: W e are exploring new, creative ways to connect with our retail customers. We are expanding our campus to increase production capacity and warehouse space, with the goal to get products to the customer as quickly as possible. We will continue to launch new product designs and are really excited about the future of outdoor furniture.

Circle Reader Service No. 47

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 47

my turn

Above

Pit Boss 4-burner Ultimate Griddle

& Beyond

Keeping customers happy with premium products and appealing price points contributes to Dansons’ record growth.

Louisiana Grills Black Label 1000

BY SHARON SANDERS

Dansons is hitting its stride. As interest

in grilling has seen a significant spike over the past year, the family-owned manufacturer—which brought Pit Boss, Louisiana Grills, and Country Smokers to the pellet grilling market—is gaining major momentum. “Many people are discovering pellet grills for the first time and are falling in love with the way the food tastes, as well as the fact that they’re easy to use,” says Jeff Thiessen, president. For 2021, Dansons (Phoenix, Arizona) has big plans for all of its grills, and is celebrating the opening of its new wood pellet facility, which is the largest in the United States.

Dansons is a Christian, faith-based, and familyowned organization founded in 1999. The name Dansons reflects the relationship of CEO Dan Thiessen, and “Dan’s sons,” Jef f and Jordan Thiessen, chief operating officer, who run the company alongside their father. “We are fortunate to be surrounded by a group of talented leaders, business professionals, and industry experts who are uniquely qualified to lead in their respective company categories,” Jeff Thiessen explains.

The company was originally rooted in the concept of transforming wood by-products from

48 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

sawmill oper ations into wood shavings for horse bedding and wood pellet fuel for heating products.

That idea grew into the production of wood pellet heating stoves, which ultimately evolved to manufacturing wood pellet barbecue grills. “God truly does work in mysterious ways and continues to bless our business every day.”

Today, Dansons is a leading manufacturer of value-engineered, technologically innovative products, including wood pellet, gas, charcoal, and combination-fueled grills, barbecues, smokers, and portable grills sold under its Pit Boss, Louisiana Grills, and Country Smokers brands. Within those brands are also full lines of pellet fuel, cooking accessories, spices, and sauces that are available across multiple leading retailers and direct-to-consumer sales and are sold in more than 20 countries worldwide.

A STRONG FOUNDATION One thing that sets Dansons apart in the industry is its superior value proposition. “Having the ability to produce quality, industry-leading products at competitive prices is the catalyst behind making that happen. It is the foundation of everything we do,” Theissen explains. The company also backs up its

products with an industry-leading five-year warranty, which is double the length of other competitors.

“We do this because we are confident in our superior bigger, hotter, and heavier value proposition.”

As a family-owned and operated business, Dansons does not have any outside capital invested in its company, is not led by an outside committee nor does it deal with any outside forces. This means it has the capability to deliver much quicker results when compared to its competitors— it’s able to go from concept to retail shelf in less than a year. “Our speed to execution and the fact that we are well-capitalized has been absolutely pivotal in our ability to grow the business. It is also a key reason why we’re continuing to grow at the rate we have been.”

NEW FOR 2021 Both the Pit Boss Grills and Louisiana Grills brands are looking forward to launching a solid lineup of products this year.

For Pit Boss, the company is excited about its allnew Ultimate Griddle series to hit the market during the early summer months. The griddles will feature a first-of-its-kind in North America— a Non-Stick Armored Ceramic Cooking Surface that is a true game-changer in the grilling category. The exclusive surface is ready to use out of the box and is a dream to clean, needing just a gentle wipe after use. The ceramic coating also protects the griddle from chipping and rust, keeping your unit looking better for longer.

“The units look great and make even better food,” continued on page 92

Circle Reader Service No. 49

product innovation

FAVE FLAMES Regency City Series 60 gas fireplace with black crystals

Regency’s original mission to create the absolute best fireplaces has fueled a loyal fan base. BY MAURA KELLER They say a company’s history

and initial foundation say a lot about the core tenets of a company’s purpose. When Robert Little founded Regency Fireplace Products on the outskirts of Vancouver, Canada, in 1979, Little had a vision of creating high-quality hearth products that stood the test of time.

This idea led to Regency’s core competencies that are at work today—quality, service, and reliability.

In fact, Little’s goal was to create fireplace products that would work from the first time to the 1,000th time they were used. That idea alone shows the tenacity that Little had in engineering and manufacturing exceptionally wellbuilt products that consumers could enjoy for decades.

Regency can offer a lifetime guarantee on their products, thanks in part to the four key cornerstones that make their fireplace products truly exceptional. These cornerstones include products that exude high quality, good value, clean-burning efficiency, and beautiful aesthetics. Simply put, Regency’s team of designers, creators,

marketers, and innovators work together to achieve a common goal: Creating quality products that bring people together.

And thanks in part to this vision that was established 42 years ago, when Little designed and made his first wood stoves in a small garage, Regency is now a world leader in the design, manufacture, and marketing of hearth products. The company’s 300 employees work seamlessly to provide products to over 2,000 retailers across North America, Europe, Japan, China, and Australia. And Regency’s reputation for providing exceptional hearth products has earned the company a ccolades aplenty by consumers and dealers, retailers, and other professionals within the hearth industry.

“This is what Regency aims to reflect in our products and our brand,” says Kyle Grant, director of marketing. “When consumers or retailers see a Regency product, we hope they see the details that make us stand out—quality materials, expert craftsmanship, attention to detail, and

50 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Regency City Series 60 gas fireplace with wood log set

innovative technologies—al l designed to make sure the firebox lasts a lifetime. We guarantee it!”

MORE CHOICES While Regency offers a wealth of fireplace product designs that meet the eclectic interests of today’s consumers, the company is continuing to expand its product offerings within its increasingly successful Regency City Series. This year, the City Series lineup will add see-through and threesided pier models. These additions will help round out the City Series, allowing homeowners to enjoy the stunning flame picture, unlimited finishing options, and advanced technology in more spaces and more applications than ever before.

The City Series has proven to be popular among consumers who are looking for extra-large glass viewing areas, unlimited finishing options, flexible installation, and Regency’s patented Cool Wall System, which allows TVs and artwork to be placed safely above the fireplace.

In 2021, Regency will also be expanding the company’s insert lineup with a new gas and wood-burning insert. “Our i3000 wood-burning insert will provide high efficiency, long burns, and class-leading glass size in a contemporary or traditional styling,” Grant says.

What’s more, Regency’s new gas insert features innovative technology, an impressive, ultra-realistic flame picture, and stunning accessories to maxi-

Circle Reader Service No. 51

product innovation mize installation flexibility. “We are very excited about our new gas insert lineup,” Grant says. “Stay tuned and check out our product announcements coming in Regency’s June release of our Vision 2021 to see the next generation of Regency Inserts.”

Regency also continues to develop some of its longstanding classic product lines that are a favorite among consumers. For example, the Regency Classic series of wood-burning stoves and inserts are still very popular with homeowners. While re-engineered to meet 2020 EPA standards, as Grant explains, this stove has remained relatively constant since the company first launched it. With long burn times, high efficiency, and ease-of-use, the Regency Classic series of wood stoves and inserts continues to be a market favorite.

“The Classic Series combines the high- efficiencies and clean burns of EPA stoves with a simplified single air control burn system to provide unmatched warmth and comfort to any type of wood burner,” Grant says.

And whether they are classic wood stoves or state-of-the-art modern gems, Regency strives to make sure all of its products are high-quality, reliable, and innovative. “These three ideas go into everything we do, from product design to finished units,” Grant says. “As a full-service manufacturer, raw materials enter one-side of our plant and fin-

ished products come out the other. We create our products in North America using advanced technology and highly skilled labor.”

By controlling the entire process, the Regency team builds in checks and balances to ensure all Regency products and parts meet rigorous standards. And it shows through the company’s commitment to quality and positive customer response, Grant notes. “By checking the details, such as thicker gauge steel, reinforced door hinges, larger glass viewing areas, and so much more, you can see how we have made our name in the industry.”

MONITORING TRENDS In this era of e-commerce and well-informed consumers, Regency recognizes that customization and choice are key to successful product marketing. As Grant explains, today’s consumers want to pick and choose what their fireplace will exactly look like—to a point that the Regency team has never seen before.

“The rise of communities like Instagram and Pinterest has led people to desire very particular looks and styles for their spaces,” Grant says. “They need a fireplace that will fit into that aesthetic.”

Regency has responded by offering more customization and choice than ever before. For example, the company’s new gas units work off a single fireplace chassis

Circle Reader Service No. 52

52 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

and can be customized for any customer needs— including installation and accessories. Regency’s wood lineup offers a unit for anyone and any style—contemporary, modern, or traditional and hybrid-catalytic or non-catalytic.

“At the moment, we are seeing many people spending more on home improvements, which has been a plus for many industries, including the hearth industry,” Grant says. “As people are spending more time at home, we’ve seen an increase in projects that beautify the home and make it more comfortable.

With vacations and out-of-home spending being curtailed, the always-put-off renovation project has come to the forefront.”

In addition to consumers spending more of their expendable income on home improvement projects in general, there also is a trend toward renovations and adding or upgrading fireplaces in people’s homes, leading to an increase in demand.

“One particular category that was surprising was the growth of outdoor fireplaces. We have seen a significant trend of consumers improving the outdoor living area and investing in extending the patio season, including installing fire and outdoor heating features,” Grant says. “We expect that trend to continue and for fireplace and hearth sales to continue to be strong throughout 2021.”

Circle Reader Service No. 53

corporate profile

EclecticExteriors

Bernhardt ventures into outdoor market with pieces that stand out with their artistic, interior stylings. BY LAURIE RUDD

Bernhardt Exteriors’ Madura Sofa, Wailea Chairs and Paseo Table

With a legacy of iconic furniture design,

Bernhardt holds a trusted position within the home industry. Following in a 130-year history of crafting fine furniture, the manufacturer is now making its mark on the outdoor category. Built on artistry and innovation, Bernhardt Exteriors was launched at the October 2019 High Point Market. With a modern design aesthetic, the introduction was met with an overwhelming positive response and is proving to deliver an exciting extension to the Bernhardt design legacy.

“Bernhardt Exteriors was inspired by our iconic Bernhardt Interiors brand and created to bring the modern styling of our indoor products to the world of outdoor furnishings,” says Erin Sullivan, director of Bernhardt Exteriors. “The brand is characterized by an elevated aesthetic focused on unique materials, constructions, and design details—all with a modern organic sensibility.”

Due to its foundation within the interior segment and its focus on the task of blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living, Bernhardt was perfectly positioned for this introduction.

Headquartered in Lenoir, North Carolina, Bernhardt has a legacy of meeting the needs of retail partners and designer clientele. Under the consistent leadership of four generations of the Bernhardt family, the move into exterior furnishings was recognized as a natural progression in the expansion of the Bernhardt brand.

“Our Bernhardt clientele were instrumental in our transition into outdoor furnishings,” Sullivan says.

“Customers kept asking for product to meet requests for outdoor living. We saw this as a great opportunity due to our existing relationships with retailers as well as

54 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

suppliers worldwide, making it a natural progression.”

Just as with Bernhardt’s interior furnishings, a design focus was at the forefront of the brand’s entry into the outdoor category. Under the direction of president and CEO Alex Bernhardt Jr., design, quality materials, and constructions were constant considerations in the creation of the outdoor line.

“The Bernhardt Exteriors design philosophy encompasses eclectic styling, unique materials, modern forms, and artistic details,” Sullivan explains. “We find inspiration in not only iconic pieces from our indoor line, but also travel, boutique hotels, architecture, high fashion, and unique materials.”

Additionally, Sullivan notes that the line uses an eclectic approach in its design process that is “item driven” vs. being collection or “suit” driven. Where other outdoor manufacturers develop collections to dress an entire outdoor space, Bernhardt Exteriors concentrates on perfecting individual pieces to be complementary through materials and finishes across the line.

“Our designs have set us apart from others in the

category from the time of our launch,” Sullivan says.

“We developed pieces with natural-looking materials, but with an appealing interior furniture vibe.”

The secret to this was the design team’s concentration on innovation and new techniques and materials. Bernhardt has partnered with global artisan manufacturing partners in the pursuit of materials and design detailing that resulted in the success of the Bernhardt Exteriors line.

For 2021, this collaborative process is on full display with its latest outdoor living introductions.

Through the use of specific materials, processes, and cusBernhardt tomer input, a wide variety of Exteriors’ Madura pieces and coordinated collecTable with tions are being developed.

Santa Cruz Chairs One example of the Bernhardt Exteriors’ focus on design was introduced with an artistic twist on an outdoor favorite, teak. Through an innovative process, a collection of seating and tables debuted utilizing carbonized teak. In this process, teak wood is thermally modified by slowly drawing moisture and sugars out of the timber, which stabilizes the wood and allows for more artistic design details. One such design detail is a process of hand-carving pieces of teak and forming them into a mosaic pattern, as seen in the Madura collection of pieces.

“The sliced teak used in our Madura products are pieced together in a mosaic design and speaks to our focus on artistic details and the use of unique materials,” Sullivan says. “The wood is handcrafted into furnishings that highlight the materials in round or linear pieces to deliver dramatic appeal.”

The Madura design uses the new carbonized teak in multiple shapes and with durable solution-dyed upholstered seating. Plush cushions and loose design back pillows make the Madura seating pieces as comfortable as eye-catching. The carbonized teak is also featured on dining tables with the sliced teak tabletop design.

“Signature to our outdoor line are wholly upholstered pieces,” says Sullivan, describing new introductions. “These are an example of how we were able to leverage our indoor capabilities with an ability to perform in the outdoors. The upholstered looks allow

EXTERIORS Circle Reader Service No. 55

corporate profile for a softer, more eclectic look that can easily mix and match with other pieces in the line, all focused on an inviting and comfortable outdoor living experience.”

Bernhardt Exteriors’ Wailea pieces incorporate an organic vibe with a unique woven sock material. Lounge chairs are formed with embracing frame curves and finished by the oversized woven elements. This plush weave also is available on the Wailea daybed or dining chair with a contrasting slender leg design. Each piece exhibits generous cushioning and the signature loose pillow seat backs.

One unique design that was crafted to accent outdoor lounging is the Playa collection. Each chair combines a durable teak wood frame with a sleek performance rope seat and back. The chairs have an engineered recline for greater comfort.

An organic, sculptural design is seen on the Bali collection. An open configuration of circular elements wrapped in a wicker or rope material provide a struc-

Bernhardt Exteriors’ Bali Chairs feature a circular pattern of woven rope

Bernhardt Exteriors’ Monterey Sofa with Tenerife Table

tural yet casual look. Simplicity of curves in the overall frame design is accompanied by solution-dyed rope that adds softness to the overall look.

“Our Bernhardt Exteriors design team has not only developed a great complement of seating motifs, but also

unique constructions in our outdoor occasional tables,” Sullivan adds.

“The Tenerife Table is one that combines a starburst design created by using natural coco twigs to cast an organic imprint to the surfaces of the cubed tables. This table has been well received as an item that completes an outdoor setting.”

The Bernhardt Exteriors line was rounded out through the development of a unique selection of occasional tables constructed from natural stone to glassreinforced concrete with inlaid marble. Also, to complement seating groups, tables from faux bois casting to terrazzo stone in designer shapes have been developed.

An accent pillow program punctuates the Bernhardt Exteriors offering with original configurations of fabric textures and hues. A total of 75 fabric selections

Circle Reader Service No. 56

56 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

are available for Bernhardt Exteriors pillows as well as upholstered pieces.

“We are excited about what is on the drawing board for the upcoming market,” Sullivan says. “We’re looking to add more natural wood designs with new finishes; and due to the popularity of the modern woven designs, we will also be adding more original weaves. Of course, our upholstered looks have been the cornerstone of our brand, and we will continue to add more to the outdoor line. Finally, our customers will be thrilled to see a number of our Bernhardt interior designs move to the Exteriors line.”

Sullivan concludes that a key component of the Bernhardt Exteriors business is its ability to be continuously growing. As an elevated line, Sullivan sees the company building upon its valued retail and design professional customer base and continuing to reach out to more segments. “We are proud that the Bernhardt Exteriors line has been an overwhelming success and going forward, our plan is to continue to intensify our product offerings and expand into new categories while always focusing on iconic design.”

Circle Reader Service No. 57

insight • AEI Corporation

Legacy series commercial grill

AEI Corporation has made its mark with a diverse portfolio of outdoor products and a well-oiled sales channel.

BY CHERISE FORNO

Sustained Success It’s been a monumental half-century tenure for AEI Corporation. Over the

course of five decades, the company has grown from a wholesale distributor of gas grills and lamps to a distributor of multiple brands of gas grills and outdoor heating equipment, as well as a manufacturer of its own patio and hearth products.

“In 1966, AEI was a true wholesale distributor,” says Pete Ar nold, the co-owner of AEI and son of the company’s founder, Phil Arnold. “Over these past 30 years, we have grown as we have added manufacturing our own line of grills and patio heating equipment.” Phil Arnold took his experience as a gas engineer with a public utility company in Wisconsin and moved to Southern California when he had the opportunity to distribute Charmglow gas grills and lamps. Alongsid e his wife, Libby, Phil developed a company that focused on valuing its employees and customers and selling quality products to enrich consumers’ lives.

“A phrase often repeated but is accurate for AEI is it is our team that makes us outstanding,” Arnold says. “We have attracted and retained great people.

Many have been part of AEI for years, some for decades, and a few for over 40 years.”

Today, AEI distr ibutes patio heating equipment

58 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

and grills from three highly reputable brands, along with manufacturing its own line of grills, Performance Grilling Systems (PGS), and outdoor infrared patio heaters with its Patio Comfort line that provides ambiance, comfort, and warmth to outdoor dining, relaxing, and entertaining that is clean and efficient.

Sunglow and Sunpak produce their high-quality heaters in Yorb a Linda, California, and Infratech heaters are manufactured in Gardena, California.

Arnold explains that one of AEI’s strengths is focusing on gas grills and patio heating equipment, so it is extremely knowledgeable and experienced about its products and customers. “We are truly one stop for a great solution to patio heating in our offering of umbrella domed, horizontal, gas, electric, natural gas, or pro pane heaters,” Arnold says. “The same is true for our gas grill offering of all aluminum, stainless steel, residential, commercial, builtin, or freestanding grills.”

Infratech and Sunpak are two brands that have performed extremely well for AEI. “The highest growth has come from Infratech, which initially

Patio Comfort natural gas heater

Gas timer

began marketing quartz electric patio heating about 20 years ago,” Arnold says. “Infratech offers virtually endless possibilities in terms of style, color, mounting options, and how to control the heat.”

Sunpak offers efficient heaters for residential and commercial use. Arnold notes that recently Sunpak has expanded its offerings with two-stage burners, a remote-control option, and three fascia kits for added design appeal.

“AEI feels that the entire industry will see remarkable growth throughout 2021 and likely well into 2022.

This feeling comes from the sense that many of us are not traveling or vacationing and want our homes to be as nice as they possibly can be.”

A-Series PGS Grill with gas timer

AEI’s Performance Grilling Systems (PGS) grills have produced strong sales for the company as AEI continues to grow the manufacturing component of its business. When crafting its grills, AEI focuses on quality and durability. It also strives to design user-friendly features such as intelligently spaced cooking grids to prevent food from falling between them. They also develop safety features that deliver peace of mind to novice and professional grillers. “Our gas grills offer onehour timers built right into the control panel, which provides safety unlike any other on the market,” Arnold says.

AEI’s Legacy grills, the company’s stainless steel series of grills, are manufactured in the U.S., Taiwan, and China. They feature ceramic rocks for even heat distribution and minimal flare-ups and come with a lifetime warranty on all of its major components.

The A-Aluminum series, which are manufactured in Wisconsin, features a stainless steel “H” burner and a self-contained continuous spark electronic ignition. The T-Commercial series offers grills specifically designed for commercial settings and professionals.

AEI has made improvements throughout its lines to keep up with consumer preferences. “We have recently begun to manufacture a master gas shut-off assembly for use in multifamily environments,” Arnold says. “We also have redesigned the cart and pedestal assemblies for our Legacy series of grills and are well on our way to manufacturing a line of electric grills that we hope to have in the marketplace by the third quarter of this year.”

Even as many companies experienced supply chain challenges due to COVID during the past year, Arnold predicts a bright outlook for the patio and hearth industry and for AEI because of increased demand as people have spent more time at home and outdoors.

“AEI feels that the entire industry will see remarkable growth throughout 2021 and likely well into 2022,” Arnold says. “This feeling comes from the sense that many of us are not traveling or vacationing and want our homes to be as nice as they

possibly can be. We have also seen that our homes’ most accessible expansion can be found in our backyards, where high-quality gas grills and patio heating equipment fit any plan. Add to this the demand from the hospitality’s increase due to the desire to dine outdoors and the many solutions we offer.”

As AEI continues to grow, it remains committed to retaining the core values of the company that were

established 55 yea rs ago by its founders—Phil and Libby Arnold. Its next priority is to continue to invest in its employees, support and serve its customers, and build partnerships with more vendors.

“Goal three is to significantly expand our geographic footprint to serve customers in additional areas of the United States,” Arnold says. “AEI’s future is very bright indeed.”

Circle Reader Service No. 59

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 59

insight • CGProducts

ARG interior lights

ARG Pro Side Burner

Fulfilling

RCS outdoor kitchen

Dreams

Built on decades of experience since

1949 and hard work by generations of the Cunningham family, CGProducts has established itself as a supplier of high-quality gas grills and anything else needed to fully outfit an outdoor kitchen. Jeff Cunningham, owner of CGProducts, says, “We’re a multi-channel business with a long, rich history.”

In addition to the company’s complete outdoor ki tchen line—Renaissance Cooking Systems—that was established in 2001, CGProducts has a diverse set of business outlets with two retail stores, a wholesale distribution operation of a variety of brands across four states, an order fulfillment system serving online retailers nationally, and production

and sales of rustic goods with Haggard’s Rustic Goods, which was acquired in 2015.

“Our business is multifac eted,” Cunningham says. “With our eye on the future, our company is so diverse in terms of our channels. We have two local retail stores, we have outside sales, we have wholesale distribution, we have online channels, and we have manufacturing with RCS, so I’m the third generation of this company, and this is not going to fail.

Not on my watch. Besides having my wife, Robben, helping me today, the fourt h generation is already on board.”

CGProducts has grown its distribution sales from humble beginnings with its first 40 Falcon

RCS kitchens appeal to customers who want American-made grills

60 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Multiple generations have made CGProducts a leader in both grill manufacturing and multi-channel sales distribution.

BY CHERISE FORNO

grills and 100 Peterson Real Fire gas logs that it sold, to now having their salesforce covering Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas and a staff of about 35. With the creation of Renaissance Cooking Systems that are sold throughout the country, CGProducts became a force to be reckoned with in the manufacturing component of the industry. “It’s a product we developed,” Cunningham says. “It’s a brand we are building nationally. It’s America’s best value in outdoor cooking products.”

Cunningham explains how the company decided to focus on manufacturing in America. Not only did they want to diversify their offerings, but they noticed a high demand for American-made products.

“The reason we went to manufacturing in the U.S. is because of a real American Renaissance,” he says. “So many people are buying and wanting to purchase products that are made in the U.S., so that’s what spurred us on to develop this new product line.”

Cunningham notes that they wanted to have control over the brand and not rely on one manufacturer or manufacturing location, so this year they expanded Renaissance Cooking Systems with a new grill to add to their already popular Premier, Cutlass, and Cutlass Pro models. “In January, we

launched American Renaissance Grill, which is a subset of RCS,” Cunningham says. “This is very exciting news and has been very well received by our dealers.”

During the development process, designing a grill that offered premium features at an approachable price level quickly became a priority. “When we developed this product, which took over a year to bring to the market, we developed it with a target of prices that we wanted to hit,” Cunningham says. “We wanted to give customers the most value possible, so we designed the American Renaissance Grill that is a premium product, made in America at a very reasonable price,” Cunningham says.

He notes that especially when compared with similar grills on the marketplace, Cunningham estimates that the closest price point for a similar grill is about $800 more. The American Renaissance Grill has been well-received because CGProducts is delivering exactly what consumers wanted—no more, no less.

“The American Renaissance Grill has several unique features in contrast to other grill manufacturers,” Cunningham says. “It has cooking grids that are square, so it makes for a larger searing area and better contact with the meat. You can also lift the lid with one finger thanks to spring-loaded lid assist. There is also a foldaway potato or warming rack as well as 900 Degree professional heat indicator, air dam on the rear, ball bearing slide-out cleanup tray, LED-illuminated control knobs, interior lights, professional flavor briquettes, lifetime warranty and, of course, 304 grade stainless in all key areas plus a host of other upgrades. These are premium features that people look for in an upper-end grill, but it doesn’t have that upper-end price point.”

Cunningham notes that having a diverse business has helped CGProducts adapt to the ever-changing market during changes brought on by COVID-19.

“The past 12-14 months, the world has faced lifechanging issues,” Cunningham says. He explains how many companies are quoting three months or more for grill delivery times during a widespread shipping crisis. Last year, Cunningham had the foresight to invest heavily in acquiring more inventory, which necessitated more warehouse space—almost 12,000 additional square feet so far just this year.

“Pretty much all grill manufacturers are facing some serious supply chain issues,” he says. “We invested and continue to invest a ton of money, going back to August and September of last year, placing our orders with manufacturers well in advance, so we have had to increase our warehouse space dramatically to help house all these products.”

Cunningham continues to see the investment into inventory as a priority because demand for outdoor living products has not slowed. “The reason we’re investing millions of dollars in our inventory is because I feel like the business with the most inventory wins because so many other companies don’t have it,” he says. “We started looking to the future more than six months ago, and we are now seeing the rewards of the investments we started making back then.”

When the first two-week lockdown started in

A full range of accessories is available, such as briquette trays and cooking grids.

March 2020, Cunningham took his more than 30 employees down to a skeleton crew of six people. The rest were sent home, to stay safe but remained on the payroll. He had no idea how the past year would go.

“In the last 20 years, sales in our industry were

growing almost double digits each year,” Cunningham says. “Then this hit, and it took off because people were investing in their yards, homes, and good times with their family. We are not seeing a slowdown yet in demand.”

Cunningham notes how tragic the pandemic has been in many ways, but he also is grateful that CGProducts stepped up to the challenge and made necessary changes. He credits his family’s faith in God for their success and for the values the Cunningham family has embedded into the culture of the company.

“We’re learning how to adjust and adapt,” Cunningham says. “By the grace of God, it got busier.

We’ve had to not only bring back our entire staff in just a couple of weeks but have since hired more people, and our sales overall, in all areas are way up.

Robben and I are blessed to have an incredible staff of hardworking, dedicated folks that really make this company run.”

Circle Reader Service No. 61

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 61

last word

Twin Eagles Outdoor Kitchen

Elegance Elevated

Consumers of premium grills have

come to expect a full array of product features and amenities, along with the highest quality materials and standards in design and manufacturing. Beyond that, the motivation for purchasing a luxury item is the way the buyer interacts with a high-end product, says Brian Eskew, sales and marketing director for premium grill manufacturer Twin Eagles (Cerritos, California).

He notes there are certain product touch points

62 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

This is very important.”

Founded in 2000 by award-winning designer and engineer Dante Cantal, today Twin Eagles is one of the most respected manufacturers in the industry. In addition to producing products featuring advanced technology and incredible durability, grills from Twin Eagles are renowned for their signature design featuring sleek, clean lines.

All products are manufactured at the c ompany’s state-of-the-art facility in Southern California.

“Over the years, we have certainly seen an interest from dealers and consumers in products being made in the U.S.” Eskew says. “The American-made aspect is incredibly important.” Not only

BY KIMBERLY RODGERS are consumers supporting their local economy by purchasing at the dealer level, but there is also the perception of receiving a better product, from the attention to detail to higher quality of materials. Moreover, he notes, Twin Eagles products are not only designed and manufactured in the U.S. but in California—the birthplace of modern outdoor living.

Twin Eagles offers a variety of premium-built gas grills and related accessories, and recently introduced its wood-fired pellet grill, which has been very successful. Another new entry, the Eagle One, a superTwin Eagles Eagle One, gas grill, has also received a fantastic receppremium Super Premium Grill tion. “It takes all the benefits of a standard Twin

that must look and feel fantastic to the consumer when purchasing a luxury grill. “At Twin Eagles, we continue to keep our focus on our premium aesthetic and all our superior touch points—those tangible and visible ones that can be seen throughout our product line,” Eskew says.

“After all, a grill purchase is a permanent installation in someone’s outdoor space so it must look great.

Twin Eagles continues to raise the bar in the premium grill category.

innovation outdoors Step into an aficionado’s outdoor kitchen. Admire the sleek, luxurious, meticulously engineered grills, as beautiful as they are high performance. Get up close and personal. You’ll appreciate the unique and innovative designs, precisely cut and shaped by our master craftspeople from the finest stainless steel. Enjoy grilling, eating and spending time together as much as we do – making memories that linger long after the grill cools down.

twin eagles. innovation and inspiration on fire.™

twineaglesgrills.com Call 800 789 2206 to learn how you can become an authorized dealer.

Circle Reader Service No. 63

last word However, Eskew adds, “We do see a significant increase in our web traffic from year-to-year that is directly related to our social campaigns.”

Earlier this year, Swedish manufacturer Dometic acquired Twin Eagles.

Based in Stockholm, Dometic is a global market leader in branded solutions for mobile living in the areas of food an d beverage, among others. “I am very excited about this acquisition, especially from a marketing perspective,” Eskew

Twin Eagles Wood Fired Pellet Grill

Eagles gas grill and elevates them with an even more refined aesthetic and performance engineering features.”

SOCIAL SAVVY Twin Eagles has achieved a high degree of visibility in the marketplace through the company’s active engagement in various social media platforms.

Without exception, Eskew notes, social media is one the most effective marketing tools today. “For Twin Eagles, it’s a great way for us to not just engage consumers but retailers as well.” Social content, he adds, should be exciting and shareable. “In that regard, our social media gives retailers a chance to share all the content we offer with their consumers and trade partners.”

Twin Eagles has done an outstanding job of providing varied content to promote its brand. If done well, social media—different from other forms of marketing—is not intended to feel like a promotion or sales pitch, Eskew notes. Rather, the intent is to feel natural and organic. To this end, Twin Eagles partners with a cross section of social media influencers and food experts who bridge the gap across all generations of consumers. “Our influencers understand our product and our brand. We give them the latitude to integrate our product into their lifestyle and share the way they use it.”

These culinary partners prepare amazing recipes on their Twin Eagles’ grills, which are then shared on the company’s website, its Facebook and Instagram accounts, as well as the influencers’ social media pages.

For example, celebrity Chef Jamie Gwen recently posted a Facebook Live video on how to prepare her innovative Braided Cedar Plank Salmon with

Maple Orange Glaze on her Twin Eagles grill.

Gwen, a selfproclaimed Delta Heat “girl-at-theOutdoor grill” is a Kitchen Culinary Institute of America and Le Cordon Bleu graduate, certified sommelier, cookbook author, food correspondent, and lifestyle expert.

Her reach is into the tens of thousands through her social platforms, successful syndicated radio show, and multiple television appearances.

Other experts include David Olson, the creator, author, and photographer behind Live Fire Republic. Olson is a nationally recognized, award-winning recipe developer, American Culinary Federation Chef and international adventurer who enjoys grilling his catch of the day for dinner. Amanda Paa is the creative photographer, recipe developer, and stylist behind Heartbeet Kitchen, which she began in 2011. Her content reflects her love for food stories, a healthy home lifestyle, and inspiring o thers to cook for themselves (and others) more often.

“Our experts truly meet the interests of all our consumers from a backyard grilling and outdoor enthusiast perspective,” Eskew says. Feedback from retailers has been very positive. “We find our social media programs are a way to engage and support our dealers to help them spread enthusiasm for the Twin Eagles brand to their buyers,” he says. It is dif ficult to quantify how social media directly relates to an increase in sales.

64 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

says. “They have a high level of marketing sophistication, and they do a masterful job with their social channels.”

Beyond that, Dometic brings the resources and infrastructure that will help Twin Eagles and Delta Heat each become category leaders. Both brands will continue to operate on their own merits, Eskew says, with the benefit of the leadership and guidance of Dometic.

GROWTH TRAJECTORY With the casual industry, including the outdoor grill segment, enjoying significant gains over the last several years, January 2020 began as a very good year for Twin Eagles. However, once the coronavirus pandemic hit in March 2020, the company experienced an immediate surge in orders compared to the same ti me in 2019.

“The pandemic forced people to stay at home and create ways to make their outdoor space better,” Eskew says. “We found families actually enjoyed meal planning and having fun cooking.” He believes this behavior has led to a cul-

tural shift that will have staying power for years to come. “People now aspire to be better backyard chefs,” he adds.

In general, consumers are trending toward purchasing larger grills as they are cooking for more people, at home, on a regular basis. In addition, the popularity of complementary grill accessories has also been increasing for years, and this segment continues to grow for Twin Eagles. “These products are all making the outdoor kitchen better and more useable, giving families a place to gather—even when the grill isn’t hot.”

Twin Eagles offers a range of gri ll accessories, including: side burners, a teppanyaki griddle, a Salamangrill (for searing steaks and cooking pizza in 4 minutes), and warming drawers. A host of outdoor kitchen products such as sinks, bars, dispensers, refrigerators, and heaters are also available. “People have a real appetite for more complementary products and accessories,” Eskew says. These accessories are also being introduced into th e Delta Heat brand, which has been experiencing exceptional growth as well, he adds.

“We believe strong interest on the Delta Heat side can be attributed to consumers who may have been in the market for an average gas grill and decided to trade up and make an investment in their outdoor kitchen with a higher quality product like Delta Heat,” Eskew says. “People want to buy the best grill for their outdoor sp ace that they can afford.” The company is placing a focus on building and rounding out products and accessories in Delta Heat to make it a complete offering in the market.

Given the company’s current onhand orders, along with feedback from dealers, distributors, and trade professionals, Twin Eagles expects an even larger growth trajectory in future sales.

Perhaps more than ever before, families are understanding the immeasurable benefits of having a beautiful and useable outdoor space. “Consumers are looking at the outdoor kitchen as more than just a place to cook. They want it to be a space to gather and entertain, much like an indoor kitchen,” Eskew says.

He adds, “As a manufacturer, we have made the commitment to do the best we can to plan for this huge surge so when our dealers, designers, and consumers need grills, we can deliver them an exceptional product within reasonable lead times.”

Circle Reader Service No. 65

what’s new

6

Hot Products to Sell Now Astria The Montecito high efficiency, EPA-certified wood-burning fireplace with advanced combustion system technology and variable combustion air control delivers clean and powerful non-catalytic combustion heating. Combined with a traditional-style arch front design and compact firebox, the Montecito is ideal for smaller spaces and transforms any room into an inviting gathering space. Contact: sales.info@ihp.us.com or www.astria.us.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 101

Big Green Egg Big Green Egg Smoking Wood Chips and Chunks add a variety of delicious flavors to foods cooked over the coals. Each type of wood will impart a different flavor to meats or other foods, resulting in an endless variety of new flavor combinations. Big Green Egg’s new Oak Wood Chips and Chunks provide a smooth mellow smoke. They are great for all types of meats and work especially well with briskets. Contact: (770) 938-9394 or www.biggreenegg.com.

Summer Classics Seemingly transported from a French sidewalk café, Savoy Chaise Lounge Chairs from Summer Classics offer a fresh look to any outdoor area.

Deep-seating styling provides comfort without a cushion, while easy care and sturdy styling mean years of worry-free enjoyment. Available in White and Navy or White and Natural two-tone weave and Chalk-finish aluminum frame.

Contact: (888) 868-4267 or www.summerclassics.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 105

Circle Reader Service No. 102

Woodard Timeless Style, Modern Comfort. Parc is crafted in long-lasting aluminum with a beautiful, cane-inspired motif. Choose from countless fabric and finish options to create your custom look.

Contact: (800) 877-2290 or woodard-furniture.com.

Dimplex Outdoor

In addition to one of the most extensive and stylish collections of woven solution-dyed fabrics in the world, Para Tempotest also offers digitally printed outdoor PET fabrics. These bright and vibrant prints are offered in four base cloths, canvas, shantung slub, basketweave, and a base that passes FR standards including NFPA 701 and IMO standards. These are printed to order and can be colored to suit your customer’s needs for a modest 40-yard minimum! Contact: (972) 512-3534 or www.tempotestusa.com.

Available in white or black, the DLW Series infrared electric heater offers a slim profile and minimalistic style that blends with any décor.

This radiant electric heater warms like the sun and does not emit visible light, making it ideal for low-light environments such as dining and lounge areas. The DLW Series heaters can be ceiling or wall-mounted and are available in wattages from 1,500 to 3,200, with lengths ranging from 36" to 70". Safe electric operation means no emissions, making the DLW Series a perfect choice for outdoor/indoor spaces, which need heat during the coldest months or in the evening. Contact: (949) 239-3030 or dimplex.com/outdoorheaters.

Circle Reader Service No. 104

Circle Reader Service No. 106

Circle Reader Service No. 103

Tempotest USA

66 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

From me time to we time

From personal spaces to gathering places, your customers demand choices. We offer these impressive electric linear fireplaces with features and sizes for the choices they deserve.

Sentry: 45” and 55” models with adjustable yellow flames, multi-color ember bed lighting, a smoked crystal ember bed, and a multi-function remote.

Plexus. 60”, 72”, 84”, and 100” models with adjustable dual colored flames and ceiling lighting, multi-color ember bed lighting, a smoked crystal ember bed, driftwood logs, and a multi-function remote.

Make it easy for them to select their electric, so they can start deciding who gets to control the remote.

astria.us.com Circle Reader Service No. 67

Product Profiles Ellery Sectional Deep Seating

Madura Dining Table

Apricity continues to elevate the industry with the very latest in trendsetting designs and collections, like the Ellery collection, that showcase the art of outdoor living. The deep seating sectional features contemporary circular seating crafted with all-weather wicker, rust-free aluminum frames, and porcelain-topped coffee tables and accent tables. With its modern appeal and glorious mix of textures and neutral tones, Ellery is the outdoor living group that is sure to start a lot of conversations.

Contact: (888) 997-7623 or www.apricityoutdoor.com.

The Madura Dining Table embodies the artisan, handcrafted nature of Bernhardt Exteriors.

Hand-cut slices of carbonized teak are pieced together to create a unique jigsaw puzzle effect on the top of each table. It is paired with the Santa Cruz Dining Chairs in a handwoven sock material in Nordic Grey powder-coated stainless steel legs.

These all-weather furnishings offer a stylish, sophisticated approach to outdoor dining. Contact: (828) 758-9811 or https://bernhardt.com/collection/ bernhardt-exteriors.

Circle Reader Service No. 107

OVATION 4

MAi805-DBEV

The Mont Alpi MAi805-DBEV takes your outdoor kitchen island to a new level. This exceptional grill, fridge, and sink combo with waterfall white granite countertops and sides comes fully loaded with rotisserie kit, covers, and chopping board. The grill is all 304 stainless steel with a lifetime warranty. It comes with lights inside the grill and on/off color changing lights on the knobs. The sink and fridge are outdoor rated and lockable. A real winner at an affordable price point—you can’t go wrong with this beauty! Contact: (949) 207-9595 or www.montalpionline.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 108

Loft

Offering a bit of whimsy and a bit of modern, the Loft chairs in its wide cocoa weave will fit your area perfectly with an uncluttered look while still delivering perfectly comfortable seating. Contact: (800) 877-2290 or woodard-furniture.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 109

68 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Circle Reader Service No. 110

Outdura’s latest introduction of 103 new fabrics, OVATION 4, is now available in its cut-yardage program, making it easier to order the colorful new dobbies, jacquards, and stripes in smaller quantities to complete custom projects. Inspired by nature, the OVATION 4 colors include Starry Night, Morning Sky, Garden Spot (shown), Warm Winter, Night Out, and Tawny Sunsets fabric groups. Perfect for use outdoors as well as in, the U.S.-made fabrics have color pigments that penetrate through the fiber for easy cleaning. The OVATION 3 collection of 121 jacquards and dobbies will continue to be available in the cut-yardage program. Contact (866) 688-3872 or www.outdura.sattler.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 111

SUNS Rialto Dining Table

The unique sliding system of the Rialto dining table is one of the latest smart innovations created by SUNS. The dining table is easily extended by sliding it out as a harmonica.

This is how you can create additional seating space in just seconds. The elegant and sleek dining table has a solid industrial aluminum frame. The tabletop is made of “slats” in either aluminum or teak. The sliding system is completely invisible.

The dining table is available in three sizes. Thanks to the use of premium materials, the SUNS Rialto dining table can remain outdoors year-round.

Contact: (508) 927-4389 or www.hello-suns.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 112

Bring indoors outside with a Valor ǻVITPEGI ®

'LG \RX NQRZ WKDW DOO RXU =& ȴUHSODFHV FDQ FRQYHUW WR RXWGRRU XVH ZLWK D VLPSOH D΍RUGDEOH RXWGRRU FRQYHUVLRQ NLW" &KHFN RXW RXW RXU ODUJH YDULHW\ RI VL]HV DQG VW\OHV WR VXLW \RXU FXVWRPHU V RXWGRRU VSDFHV For more information, speak with your Valor Sales Representative or visit YDORUȴUHSODFHV FRP RXWGRRUɄ 'HVLJQHG DQG EXLOW LQ WKH 3DFLȴF 1RUWKZHVW ɋ

Circle Reader Service No. 69

product profiles DirectVent Pro Concentric Flex

DuraVent announces the release of the new DirectVent Pro Concentric Flex, a lightweight, flexible vent pipe that can be extended and bent into the shape needed to fit your installation. DuraVent has created a new custom flex that is stronger and more flexible than any other flexible pipe out there. DirectVent Pro Concentric Flex can be used to easily solve offset installations that would otherwise be challenging to assemble with rigid vent pipe. DirectVent Pro Concentric Flex is an engineered product that has been designed and tested for use only with approved direct vent gas appliances. Contact DuraVent for an official launch date at: (800) 835-4429 or www.duravent.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 113

Founders Series by Louisiana Grills

Faber MatriX Gas Fireplace

The Matrix fireplace comes in two different sizes and lets homeowners choose from four setup configurations (front, left or right corner, and bay). Matrix features the luxurious Faber flame created by a patented 5-burner system, with the ability to adjust the flame intensity by turning the back burners on for added depth to create an exceptional experience. This modern fireplace creates an impressive focal point in any room. An electric model (e-MatriX 3326 Series) is also available.

Contact: (800) 668-6663 or www.faberfires.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 116

The most exclusive line from Louisiana Grills to date, the Founders Series couples stylish designs with unrivaled performance, and represents over 20 years of an unyielding passion for excellence, an unrivaled dedication to the pellet grill industry, and an endless devotion to the craft of high-end outdoor cooking. Contact: (877) 972-2474 or www.louisiana-grills.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 114

Nexfire Electric Fireplaces

Nexfire linear electric fireplaces feature full spectrum RGB LED lighting, which accentuates the realistic dancing flame. The multiple media options available allow you to personalize your fireplace to your home. Fireplaces can be hung on the wall and finished with a matching surround or built flush into the wall for a sleek, clean look. Contact: (800) 851-3153 or www.whitemountainhearth.com | www.americanhearth.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 117

PGS Legacy Timer Grills

Well-known for contemporary umbrellas with fiberglass ribs, FiberBuilt also offers a solid wood umbrella with a warm, traditional look. This handsome model is made of Kempas wood, which has a light mahogany finish to coordinate with a wide variety of casual furnishings. It has a two-piece pole with a pulley and pin lift and comes in 9 and 11 ft. octagon sizes. The frame features 3/4” x 1 1/8” wood ribs, a heavy-duty hub, and stainless steel hardware. The single vent canopy attaches to the ribs with rivets and is available in marine or furniture-grade solution dyed acrylics. Contact: (866) 667-8668 or www.fiberbuiltumbrellas.com.

PGS has used over 40 years of experience to produce an easy to operate, safe, functionally elegant, and unparalleled line of grills that provide the outdoor chef with the ultimate performance and durability. The stainless steel Legacy Series has flexible options that can fit into a built-in outdoor kitchen or stand-alone. It offers a FuelStop One Hour Gas Flow Timer to add a sense of security and not waste propane. PGS’s Legacy is unmatched for serious grilling. Contact: (949) 474-3070 or www.aeicorporation.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 115

Circle Reader Service No. 118

Wood Umbrella

70 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Circle Reader Service No. 71

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 71

product profiles Butcher Paper from Big Green Egg

Big Green Egg Pink Butcher Paper is perfect for wrapping smoked meats to prevent moisture loss at the end of the cooking period, keeping the meat tender and juicy. The natural fibers allow the meat to breathe and develop a smoky flavor and crunchy bark and helps decrease the cook time of your favorite barbecued meats, so you’ll be enjoying your food sooner. Also makes a great presentation for serving your barbecue favorites.

Contact: (770) 938-9394 or www.biggreenegg.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 119

Top Vent Linear Fireplace

42” wide linear fireplace (LFP4218) with more versatility than a direct vent. Frameless design, with a truly unobstructed view.

Imagine never having to clean or replace dirty glass! This can be vented vertically or horizontally (with the aid of a power vent fan). Available for LP and natural gas. Contact: (800) 833-1139 or www.goldenblountinc.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 120

Delta Heat Power Burner

The new Delta Heat Power Burner is the ultimate in performance and versatility. This impressive 60,000 BTU dual ring burner is capable of bringing an oversized stock pot to a raging boil or adjusting down to lower temperatures and simmering a pan of paella. The removable center grate design allows the unit to accommodate a commercial-style round bottom wok. To learn more about the complete line of American Made Delta Heat Outdoor Kitchen Equipment, contact: (800) 789-2206 or www.deltaheat.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 121

y

Ava ila ble i n Ga s & El Ava E e ct ric

The Finest Griddle Today

R ova ble Rem Gr e a s e Tray G Tray

Per fe ct D i s t r ib u t io n O f He at

E xclu sive He at Co nt r ol D e sig n

Si m ple

O n/O ff The very popuPower ful 18 0 0 Wat Watt s 1/ 2 I n ch T h ick lar Le Griddle O f He at Ca s t I r o n He at er Va r ia ble Va is now availL ow Ga s He at Co nt r ol Co n s u m pt io n able in gas and electric on two of its models. This change means that they can now be used in multi-family and high-rise applications where open flames are not allowed.

There are a lot of food truck suppliers also picking these up. Contact: (800) 833-5998 or www.cgproducts.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 122

Pit Boss Ultimate Lift-Off Griddle

Innovation meets versatility with the Ultimate Griddle

by Pit Boss Grills.

The first in its class, this line of griddles perfectly blends power, portability, and precision with the innovative Non-Stick Armored Ceramic Cooking Surface to create a one-of-a-kind grilling machine. Get ready for a more convenient outdoor cooking experience that is: Bigger. Hotter. Heavier. Contact: (877) 303-3134 or www.pitboss-grills.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 123

Heat & Glo Lanai Outdoor Linear Gas Fireplace

Light up a landscape with the Lanai outdoor gas fireplace. It supplies the glow and warmth of an endto-end ribbon of flames with dramatic accent lighting and is easy to install with no chimney or venting needed. The sleek modern linear design is available in two sizes—48” and 60”—plus a 48” seethrough model. The Lanai is built to last with 100 percent stainless steel, rust-resistant construction and makes a stunning outdoor fire feature. Contact: (888) 427-3973 or www.heatnglo.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 124

72 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

You create the perfect ambiance SUNS Vasto dining table/bench The SUNS Vasto is a dining set with a high-quality aluminum frame and a teak tree tabletop.

You can add our Viëste bench seats in various colors for added comfort.

SUNS sharing the sun together!

hello-suns.com Circle Reader Service No. 73

product profiles Savaii Swivel Chair

The sleek, modern Savaii Swivel Chair is created with beauty and unrivaled comfort. This all-weather chair is fully wrapped in handwoven rope in a Marled Clay finish. The powder-coated stainless steel base allows for a 360-degree swivel and it comes with a padded seat and loose fiber back pillow. Shown here with the concave Millim Bunching Table in natural stonecast. These artisan pieces breathe fresh air into any outdoor seating area. Contact: (828) 758-9811 or https://bernhardt.com/collection/bernhardt-exteriors.

Circle Reader Service No. 125

Memphis Wood Fire Grills Introduces IntelliBurn Technology Memphis redefines wood fire grilling once again with its new patentpending, industry changing IntelliBurn Technology. The most efficient burn system available today utilizes secondary combustion to provide a clean burn and the ultimate in grilling performance with faster startup, temp set and cooldown; improved consistency and temperature control; maximum pellet usage and cooks per hopper load; and a userfriendly, ergonomic full-touch screen. The most amazing meals now offer more convenience than ever before. Carts and built-ins available!

Contact (888) 883-2260 or www.memphisgrills.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 126

PGS A-Series Timer Grills

PGS has used over 40 years of experience to produce an easy to operate, safe, functionally elegant, and unparalleled line of grills that provide the outdoor chef with the ultimate performance and durability. The A-Series has aluminum castings, a stainless steel “H” burner, and stainless steel folding side shelves. It offers a FuelStop One Hour Gas Flow Timer option to add a sense of security and not waste propane, with performance-focused grilling in mind.

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

Circle Reader Service No. 127

Gensun Pet Beds

Coordinate your outdoor room in style with Gensun’s new outdoor/indoor pet beds. Create the “paw-fect” look with the option of choosing different fabrics for the bed, sides, and welt. Available in four different sizes to provide your furry friends with a comfy and stylish place to lounge. Gensun is a proud supporter of the Humane Society of the United States. Contact: (866) 964-4468 or www.gensuncasual.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 128

HPC Fire Inspired SST Torpedo Burner

Bronson Block Gas Fire Pit Kits

When creating outdoor living environments for your customers, you want products that create the perfect ambiance, that perform reliably, and that are safe. The choice is easy for the biggest flame with a lifetime warranty, and that choice is the HPC SST Torpedo Burner. Contact: (877) 585-9800 or www.hpcfire.com/torpedo.

Build a gas fire pit with the allin-one Bronson Block Gas Fire Pit Kit. The included pavers give the traditional look of a backyard bonfire with the modern convenience of gas.

Available in round and square options. Optional concrete top in Gray and Tan for round option only. DIY gas burner kits without pavers also available. Contact: (866) 303-4028 or www.outdoorrooms.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 129

Circle Reader Service No. 130

74 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

NorthCape’s Cushion Programs

Italia

NorthCape’s cushion programs feature over 20,000 pre-cut and sewn cushion covers and are available in many different styles and fabric options. NorthCape’s cushion covers are made with Sunbrella fabric, have zippered closures, are durable, and are made in the USA. NorthCape will stuff on demand, turning the selected covers into finished cushions with fast shipping. Contact: (708) 563-2890 or www.northcape.com.

The Italia collection evokes memories of timeless outdoor furniture. Cast in heavy wrought iron, these pieces will last for generations. An array of seating options reflects a classic look and adds refined crafted details. The slender framework and simple Xback design pair perfectly with the cloud-soft flanged cushions for superb comfort.

Contact: (888) 868-4267 or www.summerclassics.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 132

Circle Reader Service No. 131

POLYWOOD Modern Adirondack Chair

A modern back style and sleek profile paired with the comfort of a contoured seat and waterfall front make the Modern Adirondack Chair the perfect complement to any outdoor space. Constructed of genuine POLYWOOD lumber which includes ocean-bound and landfill-bound plastics, this durable Adirondack chair is a sustainable option that’s built to last.

Contact: (877) 457-3284 or www.polywood.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 133

Circle Reader Service No. 75

product profiles Ultimate 5 Gas Logs

Mallorca-Guava

by Bella-Dura Home

The artistically created, ultradetailed Ultimate 5 gas logs from Eiklor Flames are made of highheat (2,600-degree) ceramic refractory material and are heated by the company’s patented five-burner system, with unique stainless-steel components and heavy-duty iron grates, to give you an extraordinarily realistic, energy-efficient, toasty-warm fire. Sizes range from 18 to 36 inches. Contact: (888) 295-5647 or www.eiklorflames.com.

This eye-catching medallion was inspired by handpainted Spanish tiles. The elegant motif is woven on a vibrant textural ground that replicates the variation that occurs with paint on ceramic. Contact: (800) 544-0478 or www.bella-dura.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 136

Circle Reader Service No. 134

The Dimplex IgniteXL Bold Series

With its signature technology and unique designs, Dimplex’s newest line is here to make a statement. The IgniteXL Bold Linear Electric Fireplace is the first Dimplex Linear Electric fireplace to offer multiple display options, including right or left corner and even bay installations. A deeper viewing area and modular capabilities make this line worth remembering. Contact: (630) 241-0506 or email sales@fandcdistributors.com for more information.

Carmel Fire Pit Chat

Continuing to deliver on the demand for the ambiance of outdoor fire, Apricity’s Carmel Fire Pit Chat group will meet your customers’ demand for the latest designs for relaxing and entertaining. With clean lines, this contemporary fresh new take on outdoor has a distinctly Mid-Century Modern feel. With deep-seating 360° swivel rockers and coordinating lumbar cushions, Carmel is sure to be a hot-ticket item on your showroom floor. Contact: (888) 997-7623 or www.apricityoutdoor.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 137

Circle Reader Service No. 135

Monessen Artisan Vent-Free Gas Fireplace

The Artisan brings the ambiance of a modern fireplace to a space easily and affordably. Now updated, these vent-free gas fireplaces feature clean, contemporary lines, elegant lighting, and vivid flames to elevate a fireside experience—made even more convenient with the included remote control. Available in 42”, 48” and 60” sizes and a see-through model, the sleek look of this linear fireplace can be added nearly anywhere, warming a home with 99.9 percent efficiency. Contact: (877) 863-4350 or www.monessenhearth.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 138

Delta Heat Teppanyaki Griddle

The new Delta Heat Teppanyaki Griddle offers restaurant-style convenience to the backyard. The griddle is great for breakfast foods, burgers, sautéing, and searing, and it features a solid 5/16 stainless steel griddle surface, blue LED control panel lights, and elegant high-polished accents. This versatile cooking accessory is the perfect complement to the outdoor kitchen and is also available for freestanding applications. To learn more about the complete line of American Made Delta Heat Outdoor Kitchen Equipment, contact: (800) 789-2206 or www.deltaheat.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 139

76 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Circle Reader Service No. 77

product profiles MAi805-BSSFC

SUNS Nardo Lounger

The SUNS Nardo lounger, with its premium aluminum frame and robust teak base, ensures a long life span. The covers are made of premium Sunproof outdoor fabric.

The backrest can be adjusted to four positions and there is the option to add a matching side table. The generously upholstered cushion offers wonderful seating and lounging comfort. The SUNS Nardo lounger will definitely become the favorite spot in your garden. Contact: (508) 927-4389 or www.hello-suns.com.

The Mont Alpi MAi805BSSFC is the most stunning outdoor kitchen island out there. The unique 304 grade black stainless steel with white granite countertops is one of a kind. This unit comes fully loaded with an outdoor rated, lockable fridge, rotisserie kit, weather cover, and granite chopping board. The lights inside the grill are the perfect addition for the evening griller. The knobs have on/off color changing lights. This unit hits the perfect price point for affordability and will be the talk of the town. It will keep you grilling for many years to come! Contact: (949) 207-9595 or www.montalpionline.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 142

Circle Reader Service No. 140

Aluminum Bases

Astria Plexus

Plexus electric fireplaces offer a large linear transitional design with a smoked crystal ember bed and driftwood log accents in 60”, 72”, 84” & 100” linear circulating models. Impressive dual-colored flame appearance combined with multicolor ember bed lighting and mood-enhancing ceiling lighting offer breathtaking views and make Plexus fireplaces the focal point of any room. Contact: sales.info@ihp.us.com or www.astria.us.com.

Aluminum bases are sturdy, heavyduty yet stylish options for both intable and freestanding umbrellas. FiberBuilt manufactures 110, 160, and 175 pound models to support umbrellas from 7 1/2 ft. to 13 ft. diameter and up to 10 ft. square. These smooth, contemporary styles come with or without wheels and are available in finish colors that coordinate with the pole colors of the umbrellas. Contact: (866) 6678668 or www.fiberbuiltumbrellas.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 143

Circle Reader Service No. 141

Outdoor Kitchen Islands by Gensun

Gensun’s 12 popular pre-designed islands are warehoused in a variety of finishes, including scratch-resistant embellished finishes for the countertop, and have a lifetime structural warranty. Gensun’s pre-designed islands come complete with PGS appliances or you can choose your own appliances from the many different brands that Gensun accommodates. Contact: (866) 964-4468 or www.gensuncasual.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 144

Renaissance Uptown 600

The Uptown 600 is an EPA Qualified wood-burning fireplace. Using a glide-rail system, it has a built-in guillotine door and screen, with an easy tilt-forward feature for cleaning and servicing. The Uptown was designed with simplified loading, operation, and maintenance in mind, while providing safety to those wanting the experience of a beautiful, open, crackling fire.

Contact: (450) 565-6336 or renaissancefireplaces.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 145

78 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Circle Reader Service No. 79

product profiles The Avana Collection, New from OW Lee

The Avana collection was designed with simplicity and comfort in mind. Its transitional profile features a modern swooping arm that is echoed in the gracefully balanced design of the back.

The deep seating features Plush Comfort cushion technology and Sytex seat support for the ultimate in comfort. Sunbrella Sling is incorporated on the dining and chaise seating, adding an extra level of ease and durability. Avana is a full-line collection, which includes dining, balcony, deep seating, and lounge pieces. Contact: (800) 776-9533 or www.owlee.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 146

Faber e-MatriX Electric Fireplace

The e-MatriX by Faber: an astonishing fire... from water. This unique threedimensional flame technology creates an ultra-realistic flame effect that will amaze! This modern electric fireplace allows homeowners and designers to install a gorgeous fireplace without the hassle of gas venting—creating new possibilities for placement. The e-Matrix fireplace offers four setup configurations (front, left or right corner, and bay) giving designers total flexibility. This stunning electric fireplace will take designs to the next level.

Contact: (800) 668-6663 or www.faberfires.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 149

Shayla Copas Fabric Collection

by POLYWOOD

POLYWOOD is excited to announce a partnership with award-winning designer, Shayla Copas, and Revolution Performance Fabrics to bring you a collection of stylish outdoor fabrics. Designed by Shayla and produced by Revolution, this outdoor fabric line features eye-catching patterns in four unique color stories. The fabric collection can be found on many of the products, including toss pillows and seat cushions that pair perfectly with POLYWOOD’s beautiful furniture.

Contact: (877) 457-3284 or www.polywood.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 147

Memphis Wood Fire Grills: Beale Street Built-in

Powered by Memphis, the Beale Street Built-in offers the sophistication and versatility of its flagship brand in a budget-friendly pellet grill that stands out in its price category. Authentic wood fire flavor, expert engineering, and 1-touch temperature control mean superior smoking, roasting, and baking, as well as the ability to sear with the optional direct flame insert. Also available: A cart version, as well as coordinating doors and drawers! Contact (888) 883-2260 or www.memphisgrills.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 150

Arte 3 RL 100h

Napoleon’s new Ascent BX fireplaces offer premium options of ceramic glass, remote, blower, and lights and are available in a 36” and a 42” width. The Ascent BX offers the same versatility of designer options as the rest of the Ascent family—from brick panels to trims and fronts with the added benefit of an optional heat management system. Contact: (866) 820-8686 or www.napoleon.com.

The decorative threesided fireplace Arte 3 RL 100h is very appealing to the emotions from any angle. The soft-close all sides lifting door running with German engineering precision is the ultimate in technique. Ordered with a beveled 8 sided 6 mm massive steel frame and black EBORIS chamotte inside the combustion chamber makes it a design masterpiece in every living room. Contact: +49 5422 9441-0 or www.spartherm-america.com or m.aumann@spartherm.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 148

Circle Reader Service No. 151

Napoleon Ascent BX Platform

80 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

BROWN JORDAN INC. WELCOMES YOU INTO OUR SHOWROOMS Visit us at theMART Chicago during the ICFA Preview Show.

brownjordaninc.com Circle Reader Service No. 81

product profiles Balance

Balance is a timeless collection of woven fabrics from Sunbrella fusing modern and classic elements with functionality, comfort, and design. Through intentional styling, the collection brings new opportunities for fresh atmospheres that feel playful and approachable.

Contact: (336) 221-2211 or www.sunbrella.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 152

NorthCape’s Belenos Outdoor Cushions

Ready-toFinish Outdoor Fireplaces

Ready-To-Finish Fireplace enclosures are made from HardieBacker fiber cement board and G90 marinegrade galvanized steel framing. These can be finished on-site to match landscaping, hardscaping, or exterior design with stone or other non-combustible materials. Perfect for both commercial and residential applications. Available in singlesided and see-through options in a variety of sizes. Custom options available, too. Contact: (866) 303-4028 or www.outdoorrooms.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 154

NorthCape’s Belenos proprietary premium outdoor cushion is a high-performance solution-dyed polyester fabric. It is an all-weather fabric, durable, stain-resistant, and bleach cleanable. A variety of Belenos fabric color options are available. It is cost effective and available in the USA in all styles. Contact: (708) 563-2890 or www.northcape.com.

American Fyre Designs Contempo LP Select Firetable

Circle Reader Service No. 153

The new Wattsun umbrella features a solar panel finial to power a charging station with 2 USB ports

American Fyre Designs’ Contempo firetables bring a contemporary, sleek design to any outdoor living space. The newest offering in the Contempo collection is the American Fyre Designs Contempo LP Select. Featuring a low-profile chat height, the rectangularshaped table houses a 60,000 BTU linear burner, manual flame-sensing controls and a convenient storage drawer for a horizontal-style propane tank. As with all American Fyre Designs products, the Contempo LP Select firetable is crafted from durable glass fiber reinforced concrete and is available in several finish options. Contact: (800) 332-3973 or www.americanfyredesigns.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 155

Larssen Cushion Collection

EMBRACE THE SUN’S POWER WHILE ENJOYING THE COMFORT OF SHADE Toll-free 866.667.8668

www.fiberbuiltumbrellas.com

The well-known Larssen Cushion Collection has transformed into a sectional! Its clean lines and endless configurations make for a super versatile collection. Square or Curved Corners are available. Create a contemporary look or a nice classic style depending on frame and fabric selection. Contact: (518) 642-1100 or www.telescopecasual.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 156

Circle Reader Service No. 82

82 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Circle Reader Service No. 83

product profiles HPC Fire Inspired Forno de Pizza Oven

The Forno de Pizza Hybrid Gas and Wood Oven is a must-have for outdoor chefs who want an innovative smoker grill. With HPC EI Controls, combined with sleek, no stack, design, it retains more heat and gets up to temperature in half the time. It’s great for customers who want pizza in less than 90 seconds or perfectly smoked meats and vegetables. By utilizing HPC’s gas technology and pairing it with wood, they’ll get the best of both worlds! Contact: (877) 585-9800 or www.hpcfire.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 157

Vienna Alu Teak Umbrella

The sleek 11’ Vienna Alu Teak umbrella by Treasure Garden features an all-aluminum mixed media design. With an attractive mirrored anodized center pole and aluminum teak ribs, the Vienna can effortlessly coordinate with multiple furnishing styles. Available in all stocked fabrics without a trim option, as well as six preset trim combinations for a designer look. Contact: (626) 814-0168 or www.treasuregarden.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 158

Marin Urban Scale Seating, New from OW Lee

The new Marin Urban Scale deep seating is designed with the same style and comfort as Marin, but at a smaller scale. This seating group is perfect for smaller spaces and balconies. Marin Urban Scale seating includes lounge chair, swivel rocker lounge chair, love seat, and sofa. Contact: (800) 776-9533 or www.owlee.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 159

Universal Paver Kits

Warming Trends Universal Paver Kits are easy to install and are designed to work with a variety of paver company block kits. Included is everything you need to convert your paver fire feature from wood to gas.

Contact a flame specialist today: (877) 556-5255 or www.warming-trends.com.

Regency Atmosphere Gi29 Gas Insert

Introducing Regency’s newest gas insert, the Atmosphere Gi29, featuring the revolutionary Infusion Burner Technology. A refined firebox provides an extra-large viewing area while allowing the Gi29 to fit into more spaces.

The all-new Infusion Burner Technology delivers an unparalleled realistic log and flame picture. Elevate realism and elevate your expectations of a gas insert with the all-new Atmosphere collection from Regency.

Contact: (800) 442-7432 or www.regency-fire.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 160

Circle Reader Service No. 161

An American Twist

Renaissance Cooking Systems unveils its new made-in-America line of outdoor kitchen equipment: the American Renaissance Grill. There are three models of grills with many features and add-ons, plus two side burners. All of them are complemented by the RCS line of doors/drawers/sinks and fridges.

Contact: (800) 833-5998 or www.RCSGasGrills.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 162

84 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Kodiak Timbers Double Stack

The Kodiak Timbers is a large-style log set that utilizes the Double Stack burner system. The Ceramic Fiber logs allow the set to glow unlike any other large set.

It consists of ceramic fiber logs and is available in 21, 24, 30, or 36-inch sizes.

Contact: (800) 725-4166 or www.hargrovegaslogs.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 165

ICC Chimney – EXCELDirect

Designed with installers in mind by the technology leaders at ICC Chimney, EXCELDirect includes a gasket at every joint to eliminate the need for Mill-Pac. The laserwelded stainless flue is tough to dent or ovalize and seals every time. Say goodbye to dry fitting and try EXCELDirect today. Contact: (450) 565-6336 or icc-rsf.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 163

Full Smoker

Using its patented Vectis spring assist technology, Weber Knapp has created the perfect, accessible backyard drum smoker line of accessories! This line of products takes your backyard smoking station to the next level. The highquality, innovative accessories offer an “any meal, any time” grilling/smoking solution to Ugly Drum Smoker Enthusiasts!

Contact: (800) 828-9254 or www.weberknapp.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 164

Circle Reader Service No. 85

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 85

product profiles Napoleon 700 Series Built-in Heads

Twin Star Home Television Stand

Napoleon’s new line of all stainless steel built-in grill heads are available in 32”, 38” and 44” models. All come with a lifetime warranty and a 15-year bumper-tobumper parts warranty. Built to seamlessly fit into your ideal outdoor kitchen, the Built-In 700 Series has been designed specifically for ease of installation with integrated trim and longer wiring for no design and functionality restrictions. Also featuring 9mm stainless steel iconic WAVE cooking grids, Jetfire ignition, and crossover lighting. Contact: (866) 820-8686 or www.napoleon.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 166

This TV stand with ClassicFlame CoolGlow 2-in-1 electric fireplace offers year-round temperature control, for the warmth of an infrared quartz electric fireplace and the cool breeze of an oscillating fan when you need them most. Enjoy peace of mind with Safer Plug fire prevention technology, which monitors the temperature of the plug to prevent electrical fire, circuit, or product damage. This stand (23MM396-TT673) supports most flat screen TVs up to 65” and 60 pounds. Contact: (561) 330-3201 or www.twinstarhome.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 168

Fire Magic Electric Grill Island

Valor G4 Gas Insert

The Valor G4 gas fireplace insert is more versatile than ever before. The new V-Class burner and stunning log sets provide an impressive flame viewing area highlighted by glowing, radiant embers. The G4 now offers a 4-sided backing plate, providing additional coverage below the engine, and providing a more balanced look when installed in a raised position above the hearth. Contact: (800) 468-2567 or https://www.valorfireplaces.com/g4.

Circle Reader Service No. 167

Fire Magic Electric Grill Island bundles deliver a complete outdoor kitchen system ideal for patios with limited space or where gas fuel is unavailable. The newest bundle features a Fire Magic Electric Grill, Triple Stainless Steel Drawer and LED lights to illuminate the surrounding outdoor space—all housed in a durable glass fiber reinforced concrete island in a neutral Smoke finish. Contact: (800) 332-3973 or www.firemagicgrills.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 169

Spartherm Inserts and Modular System

Spartherm offers a new range of fireplaces for the North American market. The difference is the combustion technology, the heating power, and the pleasant and comfortable fire. Transparent glass combined with a harmonious flame is the result of more than 30 years of Spartherm's experience in fire technology. Conforms to EPA2020- 1.14 grams/hour, and it’s German-made. Simply choose your style. The technology is present throughout the entire range. Contact: (514) 4936400 or www.powrmatic.ca.

Circle Reader Service No. 170

A Wall Mounted Wonder, Flatfire Fireplace

Enhance your home’s décor with the Wittus Flatfire. This wall hung gas-burning fireplace has unanimous designer appeal. Designed and manufactured in the USA with European-style influence, and a heating capacity of up to 20K BTU, the Flatfire will light up every room. Features include the Maxitrol e-flame valve control, which is radio frequency operated and battery powered, electronic ignition and remote-control temperature censoring with temperature timer functions, and a viewing window that measures 15” H x 27” W. Additional feature: The Flatfire Tree-line silhouette metal insert that takes on a natural patina when burned. Contact: (914) 764-5679 or www.wittus.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 171

86 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Pizza Oven

Turn your Ugly Drum Smoker into a pizza oven or a griddle with the Smokin’ Ugly Pizza Oven. Griddle hotcakes, fry up eggs, toast a sandwich, or wood fire a delicious pizza! The Smokin’ Ugly Pizza Oven is easy to assemble and has both charcoal and wood heating options.

Contact: (800) 828-9254 or www.weberknapp.com.

Vent-free Coal Basket

Hargrove’s new vent-free coal basket takes the beauty of the coal basket almost anywhere. It features hidden controls, a main-burner flame and glowing coals, and a 19-inch front width. It’s great for small fireplaces. Contact: (800) 7254166 or www.hargrovegaslogs.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 173

Circle Reader Service No. 172

Ready-To-Finish Kits

Warming Trends Ready-To-Finish kits offer a simple and customizable solution for fast construction. Simply place on-site, connect to the gas supply, add veneer, and your fire feature is complete. Get In. Get Out. Get On to Your Next Project. Contact a flame specialist today: (877) 556-5255 or www.warming-trends.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 174

Horizon

Horizon is a new vinyl fabric from Sunbrella.

Perfect for outdoor spaces, Horizon combines the softness and comfort of a leather-like material with exceptional cleanability, thanks to its stain-resistant and wipe-clean properties. The product is now available in two new colorways, Capriccio Salt and Capriccio Pacific Blue.

Contact: (336) 221-2211 or www.sunbrella.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 175

Circle Reader Service No. 87

product profiles DIR Series Outdoor/Indoor Wallmount Infrared Heater

Extend the patio season in comfort with quick, safe, and efficient electric heat.

With the new DIRP plug-in outdoor heater, there’s no need for a professional electrician. Simply mount and plug into a standard household outlet. The DIRP plug-in electric heater provides 1,500 watts of power. With the touch of a remote, the Schott Nextrema ceramic tinted glass heats to a maximum warmth in as little as 6 seconds. A directional wall mount bracket and built-in timer lets users direct heat where and when they need it. This innovative design ensures a simple, safe, and space-saving installation to outdoor/indoor walls or posts.

Contact: (949) 239-3030 or dimplex.com/outdoorheaters.

Circle Reader Service No. 176

Chopped Wood from Ortal

Chopped Wood is Ortal’s newest log media for its premium Wilderness Collection of fireplaces. The natural, rough look of split logs accentuates the ultra-realistic gas or propane flames of the new fireplace line. Available exclusively for the Wilderness Collection, Chopped Wood joins the attractive assortment of wood media designs that Ortal currently offers. Combined with patent-pending Firelog Technology, Chopped Wood delivers the ambiance of a wood fire in a gas fireplace. The real-fire appearance of Wilderness Collection flames is achieved by allowing the gas to flow directly within the log media, resulting in a taller, fuller, and more realistic flame.

Contact: (844) ORTAL-FIRE or www.ortalheat.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 177

Mombo Gas Log System

The Mombo gas log system by Eiklor Flames is an exclusive, patented, large two-burner technology for small and huge fully vented commercial and residential fireplaces or firepits—for indoor and outdoor use. Sizes range from 3 to 10 feet long. Contact: (888) 295-5647 or www.eiklorflames.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 178

Ecofan AirDeco I

Ecofan AirDeco II

Reintroducing the AirDeco Series, brought to you by Caframo, Canadian manufacturer of Ecofans—the original heat powered wood stove fans. As with our traditional line of Ecofans, the AirDeco series uses thermoelectric technology to convert a temperature difference into electricity. The series is a 2019 Vesta Award winner, combining a contemporary design with top performance. The 8203 model, AirDeco I, delivers 160 CFM and is backed by an impressive 4-year warranty! Contact: (800) 567-3556 or salesteam@caframo.com.

The AirDeco II is the even larger and higher performing heat powered wood stove fan in the Ecofan AirDeco series. The series combines high performance with a contemporary, patent-pending design— the perfect combination of form and function. The 8204 model delivers 190 CFM and is also backed with an impressive 4-year warranty. Are you looking to become an Ecofan dealer?

Contact: (800) 567-3556 or salesteam@caframo.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 179

Circle Reader Service No. 180

Colorful Ceramic Stack Stove

The Stack stove by La Castellamonte, Italy, is both stylish and efficient. Made out of clay from the region’s hillsides, the design is based on the concept of modular components stacked on top of one another. Available in a range of contemporary colors and base options, the stack stove has a personality of its own. The Round Stack stove is available in 44” or 54” high, with base options of Slim, Wood, Rim, or Long. Special features include a burn system with an efficient ceramic baffle for optimal combustion, a clear glass viewing window, and the option of matching ceramic pipe. Contact: (914) 764-5679 or www.wittus.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 181

88 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Bella-Dura HOME

SV Series

Bella-Dura HOME creates harmony between beauty and performance, offering indoor/outdoor fabrics that are bleach cleanable and woven in the USA. This selection of patterns in warm rust and Aegean teal creates an inviting Patina color story. Contact: (800) 544-0478 or www.bella-dura.com.

You can enjoy these modern fireplaces from indoors and outdoors. The doublelayered ceramic glass panel on the indoor side will complement your room as an additional window with a dancing flame behind.

Available in four sizes up to seven feet long. Contact: (844) 636-3473 or www.woodbridgedealer.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 182

Circle Reader Service No. 183

Savannah

Kingsley Bate’s Savannah collection is an updated version of mid-20th century rattan seating that preserves a balance between casual and formal design. Rustproof aluminum frames are antiqued to look like genuine rattan, then handwoven with all-weather wicker in a classic artisanal pattern. All items are outfitted with modern cushioning that’s perfect for lounging or an afternoon nap. Collection is stocked in a Classic Rattan color and includes a sofa, settee, lounge chair, ottoman, side table, and coffee table. Contact: (703) 361-7000 or www.kingsleybate.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 184

White Mountain Hearth Redesigned Loft

Available in 36” and 46” models, the sleek modern lines and multiple accessory options are sure to fit any design.

The all-new Loft allows finish material to come to the edge of the unit, reducing installation time right out of the box.

Contact: (800) 851-3153 or www.whitemountainhearth.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 185

Circle Reader Service No. 89

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 89

product profiles

Outdoor Gas Fireplaces

Eva 992 Central Fireplace

The Eva 992 central fireplace has been the brand’s greatest success and can be found in the most remarkable places, from alpine chalets to luxury hotels. Understated yet stylish, with an unrivalled finish and full view of the wood fire from everywhere in the room. It also cares for the environment and the air you breathe. It will become the driving force for your interior decoration choices, putting a smile on your face as you update your living room to match the Eva’s clean lines. Contact: (514) 4936400 or www.powrmatic.ca.

Other outdoor fireplaces cannot compete when it comes to the performance of these quality-engineered direct vent fireplaces. Burning 100 times cleaner than wood, installing an outdoor Valor gas fireplace is an energy-efficient option for steady, radiant outdoor heat. Bring the comfort of a Valor gas fireplace outdoors by adapting any zero-clearance gas fireplace with the Outdoor Conversion kit (GV60CKO).

Contact: (800) 468-2567 or https://www.valorfireplaces.com/outdoor.

Circle Reader Service No. 187

Circle Reader Service No. 186

2021 Phifertex Additions

Influenced by minimalistic design and saturated color, Phifer’s new 2021 Phifertex Stockline Additions are certain to enhance your outdoor furniture! 16 new piercing hues like Ice Blue, Peach Puree, and Vivid Grey dominate the color palette with a modern twist while the new Tango Orange and Brick Red mix seamlessly with warm and cool neutrals for a classic look. The popular pattern Charm is among the favorites with a plaid-like texture, and high-texture patterns like Gannon and Burke are simple and stylish, offering a range of popular neutrals like warm browns and grays.

Whatever you might be looking for to update your outdoor furniture, Phifer’s Phifertex Stockline will have what you need to liven up your outdoor space. Contact: (800) 221-5497 or www.phifer.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 188

Outdoor Universal Housing for Gas Logs

Whiteford’s BBQ

As the 2014 World Hot Sauce Championship winner, Whiteford has quickly developed a cult following for delicious Cayenne Pepper Sauce. The phenomenal flavors do not stop there—with Mild & Spicy Bloody Mary Mix, Sweet & Spicy Kansas City Style BBQ Sauce, Olde 70 Southern Style BBQ Sauce, and BBQ Spice Rub, Whiteford provides award-winning BBQ right to your dinner table. Contact: (630) 241-0506 or email sales@fandcdistributors.com for more information.

Circle Reader Service No. 189

Huge 42” wide, 36” high, 25” deep opening (HD4236). Galvanized steel construction and fully powder-coated exterior for outdoor durability. Includes refractory panels and is suitable for any vented or ventfree gas logs. Rumford Log Set (RLS30) featured above is sold separately. An affordable masonry alternative for outdoor. Contact: (800) 833-1139 or www.goldenblountinc.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 190

Regency Grandview G600 Gas Fireplace

The second of Regency’s next-generation gas fireplaces, the G600 offers maximum flexibility and customer choice. Mix and match over 17 accessories, choose the installation style (flush or faceplate surround finish), and use Regency’s patented Cool Wall System as an option to enable zeroclearances and unlimited choice in finishing materials including wood or wallpaper! With Grandview, you get unlimited possibilities and combinations to provide more customer choice with simplified installation for dealers. Contact: (800) 442-7432 or www.regency-fire.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 191

90 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Florence 8-piece Sectional Set with Firepit

GeoBella Outdoor Fabric

With spring upon us, now is the time to get creative and dive into DIY projects to spruce up your outdoor space. GeoBella Outdoor Fabric is the perfect fabric to purchase by the yard and upgrade your outdoor seat cushions with fresh new styles.

Made of a superior olefin fabric, GeoBella is perfect for patio furniture, outdoor cushions, and curtains. Check out a wide array of classic and contemporary colors, weaves, prints, and touchable textures at shop.phifer.com/outdoor-fabric and be sure to visit the blog section to find stepby-step directions for your next outdoor project. Contact: (800) 221-5497 or www.phifer.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 192

The Florence patio seating set with subtle gray and natural hues is a combination of both flat and rounded polyethylene wicker with sturdy, lightweight aluminum frames. The round fire pit has a faux travertine stone finish. Connect a 20pound propane tank and place it inside the base, add the fire rocks, and you’re all set. When the firepit isn’t being used, you can protect it with the provided weather-resistant cover. Contact: (561) 330-3201 or www.twinstarhome.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 194

Bazza Sling Collection

The Bazza Collection is designed with a cleanly styled but functional aluminum frame, while the MGP surface provides not only a splash of color, but also a wide, comfortable surface that is pleasant to the touch on hot or cold days. Create the look of a double or triple chaise with the add-on Chaise Connector or Chaise Table connector kits.

Contact: (518) 642-1100 or www.telescopecasual.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 195

Gas Stones

It’s now possible to add a modern touch to an existing fireplace. These gas stones from European Home eliminate the “log” look of traditional gas log sets. Clean, contemporary, three-sided, and thoroughly modern.

Contact: (781) 324-8383 or www.europeanhome.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 193

Circle Reader Service No. 91

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 91

product profiles Gemütlichkeit

A new brochure from Spartherm shows how its beautiful fireplaces add Gemütlichkeit to customers' homes.

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines this typical German word as “warm cordiality.” As a German-based company, Spartherm views it more as “coziness.” Gemütlichkeit prescribes the feeling of warmth, security, and cocooning in your home around a relaxing fireplace. Check out Spartherm’s fully EPA-tested units and order them now. Contact: +49 5422 9441-0 or www.spartherm-america.com or m.aumann@spartherm.com.

Tempotest StarScreen

Tempotest USA has introduced a new screen fabric, StarScreen, that provides shade and privacy—and absorbs up to 97% of the heat caused by solar radiation—while allowing for the passage of light. The 11 designer colors add to the beauty of any structure and can be used indoors or outdoors. Made from recyclable PET solution-dyed yarns, the fabric is PVC free and fire retardant. It is fade resistant and is treated with Teflon for easy cleaning. Contact: (972) 512-3534 or www.tempotestusa.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 197

Circle Reader Service No. 196

DV36CV

This fireplace features a grand display of magnificent flame and a 10-piece log set within a 37”-wide firebox. Clean face design, herringbone brick panels, and glowing embers will bring a high-class style to any home. Available for natural gas and propane with 32,000 to 46,500 BTU/h input rate. Contact: (844) 636-3473 or www.woodbridgedealer.com.

EVO Dual-Light Sound Pod

The EVO dual-light sound pod by Treasure Garden is a multifunctional outdoor ambiance umbrella and table light with built-in surround sound Bluetooth speakers, adding ambiance and entertainment to any outdoor space. With the addition of the integrated umbrella light with Bluetooth speakers, it also includes a table light element and an integrated bass speaker that provides a crisp surround sound experience outdoors. Contact: (626) 814-0168 or www.treasuregarden.com.

Circle Reader Service No. 199

Circle Reader Service No. 198

my turn ter food,”

continued from page 48

largest barbecue wood pellet mill Thiessen says. “We can’t wait to get them and distribuinto the market.” tion center With Louisiana Grills, Dansons continin Hope, ues to enjoy the successful launch of the Arkansas. long-anticipated Founders Series grills. “I The believe they are the best grills the company 335,000has ever made—featuring upscale, stylish square-foot designs blended with a reawakening of perfacility on Pit Boss formance and innovation.”

143 acres Sportsman 1100 will be the Named as a nod to the Thiessens’ crown jewel of its pellet creation and distribution. father, the Founders Series represents over 20 years of an unyielding passion for excellence, an unrivaled dedThe mill will initially start with three pelleters and ication to the pellet grill industry, and an endless devoa 100,000-ton capacity but has the infrastructure for tion to the craft of high-end outdoor cooking. The eventual expansion to 300,000 tons and nine pelleters. series is the definition of a premium pellet grill, from The location will also serve as a distribution center for its superior airflow technology to the auger design and wood pellets, as well as wood pellet barbecue grills. “It everything in between. “For those that want the best, was a major investment for our business, but it will we have the Founders Series. It truly delivers o n everyhave a huge effect on how our pellet manufacturing thing that one would want in a grill.” and distribution will operate in the future.”

On the distribution level, the mill is central to INVESTING BIG Dansons’ largest customer base, which allows easier Dansons continues to make significant investand more efficient shipping to the south and southments in its supply chain to meet the company’s eastern United States. For the city of Hope and current capacity needs, as well as to be able to Hempstead County, the plant will be responsible for expand as business grows. In February, the compathe creation of 50-100 jobs in the area within the next ny announced that it will be opening the country’s t hree years. “We are thankful to be in the position to

92 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

help the community as our company expands.”

“God truly blessed our company in 2020. We grew by over 75% last year and our talented team did an awesome job rising to the challenge,” Thiessen says, adding that in the first half of 2021, demand is already growing significantly. Last year, Pit Boss was one of the top-selling brands per unit in the United States and was tabbed by SimilarWeb as the eighth-fastest growing brand in the digital space in its Home and Garden category. Louisiana Grills, with the release of its revered Black Label series, successfully positioned itself as a leading premium brand in the grilling industry.

The pellet grilling market presents much opportunity as it’s been growing exponentially year-overyear in the barbecue space. Four years ago, pellet grilling only represented 1.5% of the barbecue market segment. In 2020, that number grew to 17.2%— and in the next four years, it is predicted that the number will likely be over 30%.

The Dansons team has worked hard to establish itself as a household name within the pellet grilling industry and continues to aim at being the best.

Thiessen adds, “Pellet grilling being our core, we will continue to grow in that area with industryleading products. Our brands have rapidly been disrupting the grilling industry over the last several years, and we’re looking forward to see what’s in store for us next.”

industry news continued from page 16 Homecrest Outdoor Living Hires CEO Randy Shorts Homecrest Outdoor Living recently hired their new CEO, Randy Shorts.

Shorts brings decades of experience in Randy Shorts the outdoor furniture industry. He is a seasoned leader known for his growth mindset and people-centered approach—prime reasons why he was chosen for this significant role.

“We couldn’t be happier to welcome Randy to the Homecrest family as Chief Executive Officer,” says Mike Bullinger, owner of Homecrest Outdoor Living. “We are incredibly proud of Homecrest’s accomplishments as a leading U.S. manufacturer over the past 65+ years, and we are confident that Randy is the right person to lead the company into the next chapter of our story.”

Current Homecrest CEO, Tim DeJong, retires amid a flood of well wishes from Bullinger and the Homecrest team. “Looking to the future, we acknowledge with gratitude Tim’s tireless work and look forward to building on the foundation that he has carefully laid over the last decade,” Bullinger says.

DeJong is credited with incorporating new manufacturing technology and expanding product lines. “It has been an honor and privilege to serve such a dedicated team of professionals,” DeJong says. “I see wonderful opportunities for growth under Randy’s leadership, both for our people and our brand, as Homecrest continues to lead the industry in quality, comfort, and design.”

As incoming CEO, Shorts is “excited and honored” to join Homecrest and plans to expand on DeJong’s work. “The company is solidly positioned to continue growing the legacy that is Homecrest,” Shorts says. “We will continue to design and develop unique, marketdriven, contemporary pieces.”

ICFA Launches Sales Training Program A training program intended to help retail associates gain the skills and confidence necessary to Bob Phibbs improve their sales performance and help them succeed in selling more outdoor furniture is underway with more than 400 participants. Sponsored by the International Casual Furnishings Association, the accelerated online learning series is produced by Bob Phibbs, aka the Retail Doc and creator of Sales RX. This customized, three-month instruction package is designed for retail associates to create stellar customer experiences, make working in the store more enjoyable and, most importantly, increase sales. A curriculum of short learning modules includes testing at the end of each lesson and is overseen at each store by a champion who charts each associate’s progress and achievement.

Successful completion of the 12-week syllabus is rewarded with a certificate.

“In my 29 years in the industry, one thing that I have noticed is a lack of sales education with many retail sales staff,” says Harold Hudson, president of Summer Classics Private Label and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the International Casual Furnishings Association. “The program ICFA is offering is not product knowledge but covers ways to greet customers, explain why your retail store is better than competitors and how to respond to the statement ‘I need to think about it.’”

Karen Brams, president of Island Living & Patio in West Palm Beach, Florida, and chair of the ICFA Retail Council, notes, “Beyond building confidence and sales, I see this program as a vehicle to help us correct the bad habits that some associates have developed over time and empower them to rise to a higher level of success.”

Phibbs, who was a presenter at the 2019 ICFA Educational Conference in San Antonio, Texas, brings over 30 years of retail experience and has worked with more than 1,000 retail executives and entrepreneurs to grow

margins, improve customer service, and train employees. “Rather than helping to close a sale, I’m going to teach you how to open a relationship with your customers,” he said during a Zoom kick-off call with champions.

Cohenour joins American Silk as Director of Design & Merchandising American Silk Mills announced that textile and furniture industry merchandising veteran Kena Kena Cohenour Cohenour has joined its senior executive leadership team as director of design & merchandising.

Cohenour was the former vice president of textiles & upholstery merchandising for Bassett Furniture with over 20 years of proven success in creatively leading and building a productive textile assortment and merchandising. She demonstrated the ability to fuse focus, intention, ingenuity, business, and sound management practices to increase revenue and grow profits.

Cohenour has proven success in fostering and maintaini ng relationships with top accounts and suppliers to increase productivity and profitability.

“We are very excited to welcome Kena Cohenour to our Executive Leadership Team. Her knowledge, wealth of experience—both domestic and global—will bring excellent new opportunities and relationships to American Silk Mills. We know Kena is one of the best in the business and we are excited to have her leadership, vision, strategic thi nking, and creativity leading our Merchandising and Design into this—our 125th anniversary as a company. Our mission statement is that ‘We Bring Solutions That Enhance People’s Lives’ and we can’t wait to see Kena’s signature on these solutions,” says Jeff Smith, senior executive VP, sales & marketing.

“I am excited to join a company with such rich history and vision for the future,” Cohenour says. “It is truly an honor to be a part of the American Silk team.”

The ASM parent company, Sutlej Textiles and Industries Limited, is an internationally recognized industry leader in the use of state-of-the-art technology and implementation of ecofriendly and sustainable manufacturing practices and processing. Sutlej Textiles and Industries Limited is the flagship textiles company of the KK Birla Group, headquartered in India. It is a leading textile so lutions provider.

American Silk Mills was founded in 1896 and remains among the oldest and most established of the American textile brands.

Golden Blount Announces 40th Anniversary of Romans (l to r) James Golden Blount (Addison, Texas), Blount and a manufacturer of high-quality Bill Romans gas fireplace products since 1970, announces the 40th anniversary of Bill Romans, its new president.

“Bill joined us back in 1981, and has been an integral part of our growth, profitability, and high standing in our industry,” says James G. Blount, owner.

He is beloved by countless customers, vendors, and his fellow employees.

Over his 40 years with the company, Bill has done everything from customer service to shipping and receiving, purchasing, expo show management, product design, and general management of operations.

“Bill’s overall intensity, work ethic, and dedication makes it only natural that he will be our president,” Blount says. “This is a well-deserved promotion. We appreciate all 40 years of Bill’s service, and hope he is around for many more years to come.”

Golden Blount is a manufacturer of fireplaces, gas grill products, vent-free gas logs, infrared gas gr ills, glass fireplace screens and fireplace accessories.

PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM 93

advertiser index Advertiser

Phone

Website

Page

profiles directory

AEI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(949) 474-3070 . . . . . . . .www.aeicorporation.com . . . . . . . . . .59 Agio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(888) 997-7623 . . . . . . . .www.apricityoutdoor.com . . . . . . . . . .5 Bella-Dura Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 544-0478 . . . . . . . .www.bella-dura.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79 Bernhardt Exteriors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(828) 758-9811 . . . . . . . . .www.bernhardt.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 Big Green Egg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(770) 938-9394 . . . . . . . .www.biggreenegg.com . . . . . . . . . . .38

Company

Page

AEI ................................................................................................70, 74 American Fyre Designs (RH Peterson) ......................................................82 Apricity Outdoor (Agio) ..................................................................68, 76 Astria (Innovative Hearth Products)....................................................66, 78

Brown Jordan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 743-4252 . . . . . . . .www.brownjordaninc.com . . . . . . . . .81

Bella-Dura Home ............................................................................76, 89

Caframo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 567-3556 . . . . . . . .www.caframo.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91

Bernhardt Exteriors..........................................................................68, 74

CG Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 833-5998 . . . . . . . .www.cgproducts.com . . . . . . . . . .14, 61

Big Green Egg ................................................................................66, 72

Dansons, USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(877) 303-3134 . . . . . . . .www.dansons.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Caframo ..............................................................................................88

Dimplex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 668-6663 . . . . . . . .www.dimplex.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Dimplex Outdoor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(949) 239-3030 . . . . . . . .www.dimplex.com/outdoorheaters . .46

CG Products ..................................................................................72, 84 Delta Heat (Twin Eagles) ..................................................................72, 76 Dimplex Outdoor............................................................................66, 88

DuraVent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 835-4429 . . . . . . . .www.duravent.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

DuraVent ............................................................................................70

Eiklor Flames . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(888) 295-5647 . . . . . . . .www.eiklorflames.com . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Eiklor Flames ..................................................................................76, 88

Empire Comfort Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 851-3153 . . . . . . . . .www.empirecomfort.com . . . . . . . . .35

European Home....................................................................................91

F&C Distributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(630) 241-0506 . . . . . . . .www.fandcdistributors.com . . . . . . . .75

F&C Distributors ............................................................................76, 90

FiberBuilt Umbrellas & Cushions . . . . . . . .(866) 667.8668 . . . . . . . .www.fiberbuiltumbrellas.com . . . . . .82

Faber (Dimplex) ..............................................................................70, 80

Gensun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(866) 964-4468 . . . . . . . .www.gensuncasual.com . . . . . . .22, 23 Golden Blount . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 833-1139 . . . . . . . . .www.goldenblountinc.com . . . . . . . .47

FiberBuilt Umbrellas & Cushions ......................................................70, 78 Fire Magic (RH Peterson)........................................................................86 Gensun ..........................................................................................74, 78

Hargrove Manufacturing . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 725-4166 . . . . . . . .www.hargrovegaslogs.com . . . . . . . .34

Golden Blount ................................................................................72, 90

Hearth & Home Technologies . . . . . . . . . .(888) 427-3973 . . . . . . . .www.hearthnhome.com . . . . . . . . . .96

Hargrove Manufacturing ..................................................................85, 87

Hearth Products Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(877) 585-9800 . . . . . . . .www.hpcfire.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Heat & Glo (Hearth & Home Technologies) ..............................................72

HPBA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(703) 522-0086 . . . . . . . .www.hpbexpo.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

Kingsley Bate ......................................................................................87

ICC-RSF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(450) 565-6336 . . . . . . . .www.icc-chimney.com . . . . . . . . .12, 13

HPC Fire ........................................................................................74, 84

Innovative Hearth Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ihp.us.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

ICC-RSF ..............................................................................................85

Memphis Wood Fire Grills . . . . . . . . . . . . .(888) 883-2260 . . . . . . . .www.memphisgrills.com . . . . . . . . . .56

Louisiana Grills (Dansons) ......................................................................70 Memphis Wood Fire Grills ................................................................74, 80

Merchandise Mart Properties . . . . . . . . . .(312) 527-7583 . . . . . . . . .www.casualmarket.com . . . . . . . . . . .85 Mont Alpi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(949) 207-9595 . . . . . . . .www.montalpionline.com . . . . . . . . . .15

Monessen (Hearth & Home Technologies)................................................76 Mont Alpi ......................................................................................68, 78

Napoleon Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(866) 820-8686 . . . . . . . .www.napoleon.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Napoleon Products ........................................................................80, 84

NorthCape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(708) 563-2890 . . . . . . . .www.northcape.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27

NorthCape ....................................................................................75, 82

The Outdoor GreatRoom Company . . . . .(866) 303-4028 . . . . . . . .www.outdoorrooms.com . . . . . . . . . .42

Ortal ..................................................................................................88

OW Lee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 776-9533 . . . . . . . .www.owlee.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

The Outdoor GreatRoom Company ..................................................74, 82

Phifer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 221-5497 . . . . . . . .www.phifer.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 POLYWOOD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(877) 457-3284 . . . . . . . .www.polywood.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 Powrmatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(514) 493-6400 . . . . . . . .www.powrmatic.ca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71

Outdura ..............................................................................................68 OW Lee ........................................................................................80, 84 Phifer ............................................................................................90, 91 Pit Boss Grills (Dansons) ........................................................................72

Regency Fireplace Products . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 442-7432 . . . . . . . .www.regency-fire.com . . . . . . . . .18, 19

POLYWOOD ..................................................................................75, 80

RH Peterson Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 332-3973 . . . . . . . .www.rhpeterson.com . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

Powrmatic......................................................................................86, 90

Spartherm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .+49 5422 9441-0 . . . . . .www.spartherm-america.com . . . . . .95

Regency Fireplace Products ............................................................84, 90

Summer Classics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(888) 868-4267 . . . . . . . .www.summerclassics.com . . . . . . . . . .7

Renaissance Fireplaces (ICC-RSF) ............................................................78

Sunbrella . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(336) 221-2211 . . . . . . . . .www.sunbrella.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 SUNS USA Outdoor Furniture . . . . . . . . . .(508) 927-4389 . . . . . . . .www.hello-suns.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73

Spartherm......................................................................................80, 92 Summer Classics ............................................................................66, 75 Sunbrella ......................................................................................82, 87

Telescope Casual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(518) 642-1100 . . . . . . . . .www.telescopecasual.com . . . . . . . . .31

SUNS ............................................................................................68, 78

Tempotest USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(972) 512-3534 . . . . . . . .www.tempotestusa.com . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Telescope Casual ............................................................................82, 91

Treasure Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(626) 814-0168 . . . . . . . . .www.treasuregarden.com . . . . . . . . .43

Tempotest ......................................................................................66, 92

Twin Eagles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 789-2206 . . . . . . . .www.twineaglesgrills.com . . . . . . . . .63

Treasure Garden ............................................................................84, 92

Twin Star Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(561) 330-3201 . . . . . . . . .www.twinstarhome.com . . . . . . . . . . .77

Twin Star Home ..............................................................................86, 91

Valor Fireplaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 468-2567 . . . . . . . .www.valorfireplaces.com . . . . . . . . . .69 Warming Trends . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(877) 556-5255 . . . . . . . .www.warming-trends.com . . . . . . . . .89

Valor Fireplaces ..............................................................................86, 90 Warming Trends..............................................................................86, 92 Weber Knapp ................................................................................85, 87

Weber Knapp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 828-9254 . . . . . . . .www.weberknapp.com . . . . . . . . . . .39

White Mountain Hearth (Empire Comfort Systems) ..............................70, 89

Wittus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(914) 764-5679 . . . . . . . .www.wittus.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87

Wittus............................................................................................86, 88

Woodard Furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 877-2290 . . . . . . . .www.woodard-furniture.com . . . . . . .16

Woodard Furniture..........................................................................66, 68

Woodbridge Fireplace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(844) 636-3473 . . . . . . . .www.woodbridgedealer.com . . . . . .65

Woodbridge Fireplace ....................................................................89, 92

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. MAY/JUNE, VOL. 16, NO. 3 © 2021 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@OMEDA.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.

94 PATIOANDHEARTHPRODUCTSREPORT.COM

Circle Reader Service No. 95

More control, more possibilities.

DELIGHT CUSTOMERS WITH THE RIGHT HEAT-MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS.

People want to enjoy their fireplace year-round, have their TV or artwork right above it, and send the heat elsewhere.

Our market-leading solutions provide the comfort and control they deserve. UNIQUELY HHT. PASSIVE HEAT ™

• SMARTWALL™

• HEAT-ZONE®

• HEAT-OUT®

Providing warmth and comfort where people live, work and gather.

Circle Reader Service No. 96