MAY/JUNE 2019 | www.patioandhearthproductsreport.com
FABULOUS FURNITURE | 18
Store Outshines Online | 34
RH PETERSON CO.
KLAUSSNER OUTDOOR
INNOVATIVE HEARTH PRODUCTS
AGIO, USA
TAKECOMFORT OUTSIDE | 38
Circle Reader Service No. 2
Circle Reader Service No. 3
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CONTENTS
82
M AY/ J U N E 2 0 1 9 • VO L U M E 1 4 , N U M B E R 3
FE AT U R E S
8
38
GUEST EDITORIAL – RETAIL CONNECTIONS By Mariah Maydew
The chair of the International Casual Furniture Association Retail Council discusses upcoming activities for the Council and the ICFA at large.
18
42
56
By Greg Thompson
Comfort is key to outdoor room design, but Patio Renaissance proves that style needn’t take a back seat.
Ironhaus’ unique handcrafted fireplace doors stand out in a world filled with massproduced home décor.
MY TURN – A LOYAL FOLLOWING As the Big Green Egg continues to add new accessories and innovative product features to its tried-and-true cookers, Eggheads remain devoted fans.
By Greg Thompson
44
PERSPECTIVE – SOMETHING SPECIAL
By Sharon Sanders
58
LAST WORD – SUN STOPPERS By Maura Keller
Frankford Umbrellas’ stylish array of high-end shade products are perfect for both residential and commercial customers.
By Maura Keller
SPOTLIGHT – RELAX AND STAY AWHILE This season’s new outdoor furnishings create luxurious backyard retreats for basking in the warm summer sun.
AS I SEE IT – CRAFTING COMFORT
70
PRODUCT INNOVATION – FLAMES REDEFINED By Cheryl Dangel Bartolini
26
HEARTH RETAILER – MATTERS OF THE HEARTH
Lovinflame’s innovative lineup of products has gained a strong foothold in the marketplace as customers are attracted to fire features for ambiance and comfort.
By Kimberly Rodgers
Fireplaces Plus has been a dominant hearth store in the Quad Cities region of Illinois and Iowa for over 30 years.
30
46
OUTDOOR GRILLING – JUST FINE ONLINE
By Kimberly Rodgers
Windward Design Group takes the industry by storm with new products, a new manufacturing facility, and enhanced dealer programs.
By Cheryl Dangel Bartolini
This outdoor kitchen store’s winning business plan emphasizes low prices and a well-stocked showroom.
34
SHOWROOM SHOWCASE – BRICKS OVER CLICKS
CORPORATE PROFILE – MOVING FORWARD
50
INSIGHT – IGNITING THE INDUSTRY By Cherise Forno
Industry leader Hearth Products Controls is known for its high-tech products, commitment to safety standards, and strong relationships with dealers.
By Sharon Sanders
The secret to American Leisure Patio’s success is its personalized and experiential shopping service, which online retailers can’t duplicate.
52
INSIGHT – READY, SET…GRILL! By Cherise Forno
Onward Manufacturing (and its family of high-quality grill brands) boasts an international fan base.
72 Follow us on Twitter: @patiohearth www.facebook.com/patiohearthproductsreport
4 • PATIO & HEARTH PRODUCTS REPORT | MAY/JUNE 2019
I N E V E RY I S S U E
6 10 60 62 85 85
PHUBBING EDITOR’S MESSAGE INDUSTRY NEWS WHAT’S NEW: 6 HOT PRODUCTS TO SELL NOW PRODUCT PROFILES PRODUCT PROFILES DIRECTORY AD INDEX
ON THE COVER: Agio USA | (888) 997-7623 or www.agio-usa.com
M O D ER N | O U TD O O R | LIV IN G Apricity’s bold, exciting, elegant collections give retailers the latest trending designs in outdoor entertaining. The Apricity brand delivers the highest quality and elevated looks to the industry. Prepare to take your product mix to the next level.
O U T D O O R
apricityoutdoor.com | Circle Reader Service No. 5
EDITOR’S MESSAGE
Phubbing Researchers have discovered that
media feeds. Others have taken more
when a person uses a smartphone, it’s
extreme measures by attending
like a brain exposed to cocaine. In other
digital wellness seminars, staying in
words, we get an instant high every time
hotels with “digital detox” packages,
our screen lights up with a new notifica-
or using flip phones or the Light
tion. This is due to dopamine, the feel-
Phone with limited features.
good chemical that is released when you
Attending trade shows that promote
do something you enjoy, such as reading
face-to-face connections over digital
multiple Likes on your Facebook feed.
communication is a great way to take a
Dopamine reinforces and motivates
break from your smartphone. Whether
behavior that makes us feel good and,
you attend HPBExpo, Casual Market
consequently, can create addiction.
Chicago, High Point Market, Las Vegas
Smartphone addiction is a serious
Market or other shows, each gives you
problem and has been linked to every-
the opportunity to make meaningful
thing from anxiety, depression, and
conversations with the people who con-
loneliness to decreased attention and
tribute to your bottom line. While it may
memory loss. In addition to affecting
be easier to send an email or text, some-
our mental (and sometimes physical)
times the benefits of personal meetings
health, it can harm our relationships
at trade shows far outweigh the ease of
and our productivity. And yes, while a
digital communication. In-person meet-
smartphone can be a hugely produc-
ings are still the most effective way to
tive tool, compulsive use of it can inter-
capture the attention of participants,
fere with work, school, and relation-
engage them in the conversation, and
We have all been phubbed by somebody
restaurants, in parks, at airports, and
ships. When you spend more t ime on
drive productive collaboration.
from time to time. On the flip side, you
sporting events. They’re glassy-eyed
social media or playing games than
Nurturing strong, personal relationships
and I have been guilty of phubbing
zombies, staring at their phones as the
interacting with real people, or you
with industry professionals builds trust,
friends, family, and colleagues.
allure of digital communications takes
can’t stop repeatedly checking texts
understanding, and a sense of shared
Unfamiliar with the term? Phubbing
over their desire to converse face-to-
and emails, it may be time to reassess
mission—which are essential elements to
your technology use.
successful business relationships.
simply means snubbing a person in
face or even enjoy the stillness of their
favor of your cellphone. Whether it’s
surroundings. A recent study found
done in a staff meeting, around the
that the average person touches their
phone, I make concerted efforts to
dread the ongoing sounds of digital
family dining table, or even one-on-one
phones 2,617 times per day!
“go dark” from time to time and store
pings, you don’t have to detox with a
my phone when I’m with friends and
30-day screen cleanse. Just register for
with a spouse or friend, phubbing
I wasn’t aware of how often I used my
Since I spend so much time on my
If you’re tired of being phubbed and
involves engaging with your cellphone
phone until I discovered Apple’s new
family. For me, cellphone detox is all
an upcoming trade show where you can
at the expense of focusing on the per-
feature, Screen Time, which tracks usage
about unhooking my brain from
connect with human beings the old-
son or persons around you.
and sets parameters for how long you
harmful routines adopted when using
fashioned way.
use certain apps. When I checked my
my phone, whether it involves check-
time usage, I was shocked.
ing my emails, texts, and social-
On any given day, if you look around, you’ll find phubbers—at
Carol Daus caroldaus@gmail.com
4 FAST FACTS IN THIS ISSUE: ∂ A major trend in outdoor furniture for 2019 is an expanded color palette for both finishes and fabrics. Find out which color is hot and which hue is making a comeback. Relax and Stay Awhile, p. 18
∑ Affordable Outdoor Kitchens lives up to its name by selling a wide array of grills at internet prices— unlike some dealers that can’t compete with bare-bones internet price tags. What’s Affordable Outdoor Kitchens’ secret? Just Fine Online, p. 30
6 • PATIO & HEARTH PRODUCTS REPORT | MAY/JUNE 2018
∏ Impassioned eggheads are excited about the Big Green Egg’s new rEGGulator vent cap that provides improved airflow, precise temperature control, and will hold settings regardless of the position of the dome. A Loyal Following, p. 42
π Retailers working with Frankford Umbrellas can maintain a small inventory and place orders weekly rather than require a major upfront cash expenditure and large space allocated for inventory. Sun Stoppers, p. 58
Circle Reader Service No. 7
GUEST EDITORIAL PUBLISHER
By Mariah Maydew
Tony Ramos tramos@peninsula-media.com
RETAILCONNECTIONS The ICFA Retail Council expands activities for outdoor-furnishings retailers.
Mariah Maydew
The 2019 patio furniture season is finally underway in Colorado, and we are starting to see the payoff from the work we put in during the offseason. The decisions and effort put into buying, merchandising, marketing, training, and operations are all part of having a successful season. It seems like every year we are changing at least something in one of these areas in order to stay competitive in the everchanging retail environment. As I think back to the many things we have changed and improved in our store over the years, I realize that most of the ideas have stemmed from International Casual Furniture Association events we have attended. We get ideas anywhere from speakers at conferences to other retailers during roundtables, networking events, and store tours. I don’t believe Fruehauf’s would be where we are today if it weren’t for our participation in the ICFA. As the chair of the ICFA Retail Council, I am very pleased that our council members have worked together this spring to expand upon the successes our learning events have delivered over the years. First up on our calendar this year is a brand-new activity—ICFA Greater Chicago Retail Design & Dine Tour—scheduled on July 15, the day before the opening of the ICFA Preview Show. Everyone has thoroughly enjoyed the store tours that are a favorite part of the ICFA Educational Conferences, and we look forward to visiting Village Green in Rockford, Wannemaker’s in Downers Grove and Summer Classics Home Chicago in Highland Park. There will be
countless opportunities for conversation as we travel through the suburbs and enjoy dinner together before coming back to theMART. Tickets are available at www.icfanet.org. Since 2013, retailers have benefitted from the networking and knowledge provided at the ICFA Industry Roundtables. This afternoon program—scheduled on Sept. 9, the day before the opening of Casual Market Chicago—is being expanded in 2019 to offer expert insights on in-store events. We recognize that in-store special events can be a terrific way to attract new customers as well as entertain existing customers. After a networking lunch, we’ll start with a presentation by a professional event planner, followed by a panel discussion of ICFA specialists sharing their successes in creating unique promotions that build traffic and sales. The program will continue with our popular ICFA Think Tank, which allows all attendees to raise a question or business challenge with their roundtable mates and receive advice from these peers. At the end of the afternoon, we’ll enjoy more socializing at an exclusive reception hosted by Klaussner Outdoor in their showroom. Registration is available at www.icfanet.org. Probably one of the best ways to get new ideas on how to improve your business is by attending the ICFA Educational Conference. After hosting this three-day forum in Scottsdale, Ariz.; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; and San Antonio, Texas, ICFA is headed to San Diego, Calif., for our fourth Conference on Feb. 4-7, 2020, at the Kona Kai Resort. The program combines outstanding keynote speakers, breakouts and roundtable discussions with ample chances to talk with other retailers as well as manufacturers, reps and suppliers. For us, it is a great opportunity to meet new colleagues and see our longtime industry
8 • PATIO & HEARTH PRODUCTS REPORT | MAY/JUNE 2019
friends. I’ve found that we always come away from these conferences with great advice for tackling the challenges at the store in addition to new ideas to take home and improve our business. Speaking of idea generation, the former president of Fruehauf’s, Mary Fruehauf, who passed away in 2015, was amazingly creative. She was known for her “outside of the box” thinking and dedication to the casual furniture industry, and it is very fitting that the ICFA Retail Council created the Mary Fruehauf Retail Genius Award to honor her legacy. I’m proud to band together with Cathy Galbreath-Buzbee of ABSCO Fireplace & Patio in Birmingham, Ala., and Brian Lawrence of Emigh’s Casual Living in Sacramento, Calif., to jury the entries for this prestigious recognition. All in all, I’m convinced that the return we get from our ICFA membership dues is a very meaningful investment. Being an active part of our industry trade association affords us advantages that we couldn’t obtain elsewhere on our own. ICFA recognizes that by amassing the assets of all our retail businesses, we can enjoy group rates on credit card processing and in-store consumer financing. But because no two ICFA retail businesses are alike, we’ve joined forces with two service providers—Nationwide Marketing Group and Merchant Lynx Services—to offer the best program for each dealer. I heartily encourage any retailer that is not involved in the ICFA to contact Jackie Hirschhaut, our executive director, to learn more about how membership could positively affect their business. She can be reached by calling (336) 881-1016 or by email at jackie@icfanet.org.
EDITOR Carol Daus caroldaus@gmail.com ART DIRECTOR Cassandra Estes cassestes1968@gmail.com COPY EDITOR John Nalley STAFF WRITERS Cheryl Dangel Bartolini Cherise Forno Maura Keller Kimberly Rodgers 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:
Mariah Maydew is the chair of the ICFA Retail Council and president and CEO of Fruehauf’s Patio & Garden in Westminster, Colorado.
www.patioandhearthproductsreport.com Email: patioandhearth@omeda.com Phone: (847) 763-9261
Circle Reader Service No. 9
INDUSTRY NEWS
According to a survey from the International Casual Furnishings Association and the American Home Furnishings Alliance, 47% of Americans plan to purchase at least one piece of new outdoor furniture or accessories for their homes in 2019, with nearly onethird expecting to add multiple pieces of furniture to their porches, decks, and patios this year. The research also revealed that 83% of households have an outdoor living space, with 50% seating four to eight people. Key findings include the following: Improving the comfort of outdoor spaces is ranked No. 1 (47%), followed by enhancing func-
tionality (30%) and style/aesthetics (23%). Replacing furniture because it is worn out (71%) tops to-do lists, as well as finding items they like better (23%) and are more in style (7%). New home furnishings for outdoor Jensen spaces are the third household priority Leisure (29%), behind purchasing pieces for living rooms (40%) and bedrooms (37%). “There are no two outdoor living spaces that are alike, as we have more freedom to creatively decorate and personalize them,” says Jackie Hirschhaut, vice president of the American Home Furnishings
THe ouTdoor GreATroom CompAny Hires Jeff HAnel The outdoor Greatroom Company recruited industry expert Jeff Hanel to join their family of outdoor-living innovators. Hanel possesses strong expertise in new construction and building distribution channels. His position will focus on growing and managing the building contractors’ division of customers. He will also oversee the southeastern sales territory of north Carolina, south Carolina, Georgia, and eastern Tennessee. Jeff Hanel “over the years, i’ve gained some key learnings for life: do the right thing, family first, and be customer driven to name a few.” Hanel says. “i look forward to joining a family company that embraces these life standards and values.” Hanel’s 27 years of experience in the hearth industry provides valuable insights for understanding businesses’ needs to overcome everyday obstacles and achieve success. His past work with hundreds of dealers and distributors relating to new construction supports his specialties in meeting homebuyers’ expectations and ultimately selling more homes. As a long-time expert at Hearth and Home Technologies and Heat-n-Glo, his management experience in customer service, marketing, and sales offers a unique perspective for relating with customers and their businesses. Hanel looks forward to meeting and building relationships with customers while working with a trendsetting portfolio of innovative products. “When envisioning the ideal professional to work with new construction builders, i immediately think of Jeff Hanel,” says Joey shimek, vice president of sales. “i have known Hanel for years and am confident he will be a great addition to our family of experts and company culture.”
10 • PATIO & HEARTH PRODUCTS REPORT | MAY/JUNE 2019
DENA KOVACH
Outdoor Lifestyle is a Priority for Households in 2019, New Study Shows
Alliance and executive director of its outdoor division, the International Casual Furnishings Association. “We have the ability to make our outdoor spaces anything we want them to be, and today’s trends allow us to design spaces we love.” Among this year’s outdoor furniture trends are: midcentury modern and other retro looks; fire elements; simulated wood looks; low-maintenance designs; textured fabrics; and an array of colors such as blues of all hues, sea and spa colors, and shades of pink, including dusty rose, bronzy shades (from terra cotta), peach, blush, raspberry, and coral. These shades mix well with gray and taupe, as well as indigo. Gray finishes also remain popular.
Tom Krebs AppoinTed presidenT And Ceo of innovATive HeArTH produCTs Innovative Hearth Products (IHP) recently named Tom Krebs as its president and chief executive officer. In this leadership role, Krebs will leverage more than 18 years of hearth industry experience to guide IHP’s growth initiatives and pursue opportunities to expand the company’s product offerings, as well as improve operational efficiencies that deliver increased value to distributors and dealers. “Tom is a proven leader with in-depth knowledge of the marketplace and an appreciation for IHP’s culture,” says Mike Clevy, partner at Beckner Clevy Partners and chairman of IHP. “His background and leadership qualities will be essential in guiding IHP into the next phase as we prepare for a bright future.” Most recently, Krebs served as executive vice president of sales and marketing for IHP. He began his career with the company in 2001, joining Lennox Hearth Products (LHP) as a regional sales manager before quickly rising to national sales manager in 2004. When LHP merged with FMI Products in
silver roCKeT CHArCoAl Grill from sunrise meTAl GAins momenTum from humble beginnings in indiana Hoosier country, the silver rocket charcoal grill from sunrise metal has enjoyed substantial growth since its inception five years ago. “since most charcoal grills are ceramic and break easily due to their inexpensive components, the grill experts at sunrise metals were inspired to design and create a high quality, long lasting, ultra-durable charcoal grill created out of 304 stainless steel materials,” says lee miller, customer service and marketing rep for sunrise. “They focused on things like optimal heat containment and quick start-up times. They were successful, and the impressively quick start-up time is what makes the silver rocket the crown jewel of charcoal grills currently available today. Another strong feature of the silver bullet grills is that they are manufactured from nearly unbreakable 304 stainless steel with high tempera-
The Silver Rocket from Sunrise Metal
ture thermal insulation between the two walls of stainless steel.” The American outdoor grilling experience appears to be trending toward charcoal. “people
love the improved, unique taste of meat that has been prepared over a bed of charcoal,” miller says. “sunrise grills are designed with a most appealing modern exoskeleton. indeed, it appears as if the aesthetics of this attractive grill could prepare steaks, burgers, and sausages without any help from incendiary sources.” The silver rocket has an expansive line of premium products to assist in the overall grilling experience. everything from indirect heat plates and rib racks to insulated beverage containers. sunrise metal shop has also expanded its product line to include outdoo r stainless patio furniture and indoor/outdoor high-end kitchen range hoods. sunrise metal shop is located in Topeka, indiana, and currently consists of 20 employees dedicated to providing an excellent outdoor cooking experience. for more information, contact: (260) 463-4026.
2012 to form IHP, Krebs continued in this role until 2015. Earlier in his career, he held numerous sales and marketing positions with Lennox Industries’ commercial and residential HVAC divisions. “I’m eager to help shape IHP’s continued growth, especially at a time when the company is focused on preserving its rich heritage and establishing itself as one of the industry’s premier brands,” Krebs says. “My goal is to help improve our market position and operating performance while simultaneously driving added value for our customers and our company.” Krebs’ appointment follows IHP’s recent acquisition by Beckner Clevy Partners and Harbert Management Corporation. For more information about IHP and its family of brands, visit ihp.us.com.
The Kamado Joe Classic III
KAmAdo Joe lAunCHes neW Grills And unveils innovATive neW smoKe CHAmber Kamado Joe has launched two new kamado-style grills: The Classic III and Big Joe III. The muchanticipated III series grills are the first to feature the company’s breakthrough hyperbolic smoke chamber, dubbed the SlōRoller. The innovative chamber was developed by a team of Harvard researchers, and maximizes smoke flavor and heat distribution by changing internal pressure to create optimal cyclonic airflow inside the grill. Built with technology never before used in the
Circle Reader Service No. 11
MAY/JUNE 2019 | PATIO & HEARTH PRODUCTS REPORT • 11
HEARTH SPOTLIGHT
ADVERTORIAL
SEE
andSELL
New York retailer showcases Mendota’s signature flames and eye-catching products in displays designed to drive business.
H
ome & Hearth (Cortlandt
Mike Enea (left) and John Enea (right)
uct category in our store,” Enea says. “Even
and Mendota is continually
coal stoves are on display. I believe it is
creating exciting products
important that customers can come and see
that feature stunning designs
the products that they are thinking of pur-
and cutting-edge technology.
kitchen, and outdoor products to the New
chasing and get to speak with a salesperson
“The partnership with
York metropolitan area.
that has the experience we have.”
Mendota has been amazing,”
Manor, New York) draws from decades of work in the home
industry as it supplies superior hearth,
The Enea family first ran a home
A very successful branch of the business
Enea says. “They are very easy
center/building products business in 1972
is the gas fireplaces category that has
to deal with, they always have
that created a specialty section selling
grown in popularity in recent years, with
your back, and the technical
wood stoves and fireplaces that were in
brands such as Mendota. “In the past 10
department has been great.
high demand as a result of the Arab Oil
years, we have seen a huge increase in gas
Mendota also continues to
Embargo in place in the early 1970s. “That
fireplace sales,” Enea says.
innovate new products for its
business established itself as a main suppli-
Enea explains that Mendota’s exquisite
dealers, so we can look for-
er of hearth products for the next 25 years,
gas fireplaces, inserts, and accessories have
ward to a bright future with
at which point the family decided it was the
been a part of Home & Hearth’s product
them. Every year, we are excit-
right time to put its full resources into the
line since its inception and have remained a
ed to see what they have
hearth industry,” says John Enea, president.
best-selling brand. “We have carried
An ideal location was selected to create
Mendota products for well over 20 years,”
come up with.” FullView FV41 with premium fiber oak log set, tavern brown herringbone brick liner, and oil-rubbed bronze wide Grace front
Home & Hearth stands
a stunning showroom for the store that now
he says. “When our family decided to build
includes more than 100 display units in a
our larger dedicated hearth location, it was
wide variety of products. In addition to the
an easy decision to include Mendota as part
to carrying high-quality
store’s expansive inventory, the business is a
of the product offering.”
brands such as Mendota, but
leader in the region because of its styling
apart in the industry, not only because of its commitment
Mendota’s signature flame was a driv-
its ability to provide ongoing
capabilities, services, and top-notch cus-
ing force in the decision to carry the prod-
tomer support. “Customers had not seen a
uct, and it remains a selling point today.
chases products. “We also
showroom with such a depth of products
“The flame quality is and has been known
believe that after the sale,
and services,” Enea says. “Home & Hearth’s
in the industry as being one of the most
you must have a dedicated
specialty is the ability to design, sell, install,
realistic flames that can be had in a gas
technical service depart-
and service every product sold or simply
fireplace,” Enea says.
ment,” Enea says. “What
just sell to the consumer, homeowner, and
makes us unique is that we
Mendota’s FullView gas fireplaces and
builder, with expert guidance and excellent
inserts have been extremely popular at
customer service.”
Home & Hearth with its sophisticated style,
Enea notes that their vast showroom is a
service after a customer pur-
zone heating, and limitless options to enjoy
FullView FV36 with birch HD log set, gray slate soldier course brick liner and vintage iron Traditions front with black accent corners and dome rivets
with the linear series.”
have a background in construction, so no job is impossible for us. We will make it
priority to Home & Hearth, so customers
the unobstructed view of the flame and
can see as many types of products as possi-
beautiful media choices available with
ble to help them select what they need,
these products. Enea notes that the FV44i
place delivers an eye-catching, bold design
reputation of excellence by growing along
including gas fireplaces, inserts, and logs;
and FV33i gas inserts have sold well at the
that can be customized with interior linings,
with its customers’ tastes and needs.
wood stoves and inserts; pellet stoves and
store, as well as the FV36 and FV42 fire-
fronts, and numerous fire base options
“Being a family business with over 50 years
inserts; and electric fireplaces. Home &
place that are two of seven FullView models
including white marble, river rock, birch,
of experience in the home improvement
Hearth also provides everything a home-
available in various sizes and shapes such as
and black diamonds for a truly personalized
industry and over 40 years of that being in
owner or contractor might desire to put the
the romantic lines of the FV34 Arch.
look to match any décor.
finishing touches on a project such as a
“The FV series has really been our go-to
Mendota’s FullView Décor Linear fire-
Enea notes that Mendota products are
happen for our customers.” Home & Hearth continues to build on its
the hearth industry, we have seen a lot of things come and go,” Enea says. “As the
mantel, stone veneer, or a metal wall system
line of traditional gas fireplaces, particularly
luxurious and consistent, as is working
business evolved, so did the product
for a modern look.
the FV34, FV41, and FV46 models leading
with the company. He adds that their cus-
choice. We continue every day to improve
the pack,” Enea says. “We also do very well
tomer and dealer support is phenomenal,
on what we have built.”
“We display every available hearth prod-
12 • PATIO & HEARTH PRODUCTS REPORT | MAY/JUNE 2019
Circle Reader Service No. 13
NEWS
INDUSTRY
THe pHiferTex resorT ColleCTion mAKes A splAsH in THe mArKeTplACe
grilling industry, the SlōRoller leverages patented science developed by Desora, a team of Harvard researchers that set out to transform a kamado-style grill into one of the world’s most optimal smokers. The SlōRoller’s hyperbolic technology fundamentally changes the airflow pattern inside the grill, causing smoke to revolve around food five to 20 times more than other grills. By distributing smoke and heat in rolling, recirculating waves, the SlōRoller surrounds food in smoke while evenly distributing heat, resulting in enhanced flavor and up to an 80 percent reduction in hot spots. As with their predecessors, the Classic III and Big Joe III grills also feature a thick-walled, heat-resistant shell that locks in smoke and moisture at any temperature. The easy-open top domes include the counterbalanced Air Lift Hinge and element-proof, ultra-precise Kontrol Tower top vent, while the large cooking surface underneath is crafted from commercial-grade 304 stainless steel. The III Series grills also come standard with the three-tier Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System with Charcoal Basket, the Advanced Multi-
electrifying color + sleek design = summer chic. The new phifertex resort collection serves up fun in the sun in a poolside-ready palette of more than 20 juicy hues and stylish striped designs. These mix-and-match sling fabrics, designed for the rapidly-growing contract market, are perfect for commercial and residential outdoor spaces Phifertext Resort collection alike. Woven from durable, vinyl-coated polyester yarns, phifertex resort fabrics are uv and fade resistant to ensure long-lasting vibrant color. built-in microban antimicrobial protection provides an added level of defense against bacteria, mold and mildew. phifertex offers comfort, durability and high performance without sacrificing style. it’s also ideal for use in awning, umbrella and new fabric applications such as wrapped furniture and padded slings. for more information on the phifertex resort collection, contact: (800) 221-5497 or email inquiries through the website at www.phifer.com.
Panel FireBox, heat resistant powder-coated aluminum side shelves, a heavy-duty rolling galvanized steel cart, and a patented slide-ou t ash drawer for easy cleaning. In addition to the new grill series, Kamado Joe is also adding to its range of pro-grade grilling accessories. The wedge-shaped DōJoe pizza insert, which converts the Kamado Joe Classic or Big Joe grill into a high-performance pizza oven, creates an optimal environment for perfect crust and crisp toppings. “We are continuously challenging ourselves to build the best grill ever made. The III Series is no exception. We used the best mater ials, world-renowned science, and top global partners to deliver grillers a ceramic style grill that outperforms anything on the market,”
explains Bobby Brennan, CEO of Kamado Joe. “It’s not just new—it’s scientifically better.”
broWn JordAn ACquires CAsTelle furniTure Brown Jordan International Inc. recently acquired the assets of Castelle Furniture Co. The transaction combines the leading providers of outdoor casual furniture in the residential and hospitality markets into a company generating consolidated net sales of nearly $400 million. The combined company will be headquartered in St. Augustine, Florida, and will maintain manufacturing, design and administrative operations in five states in the U.S., as well as Juarez, Mexico, and Costa Rica.
urbAn bonfire And deKTon by CosenTino form pArTnersHip ACross norTH AmeriCA urban bonfire and dekton by Cosentino, an innovative and resilient architectural surface brand, recently announced a new partnership. Conceptualized to inspire, as well as to streamline the purchasing and implementation process, the alliance unites the category leaders in urban bonfire’s 60+ dealer partner showrooms across the u.s. and Canada. “our vision for this partnership is to inspire and educate builders, designers, and homeowners about the realm of possibility of the new outdoor room, offering the very best when it comes to beauty, functionality and durability,” says urban bonfire’s president and cofounder, ryan bloom. “With our carefully curated selection of modules, accessories, colors and handles, dekton is the perfect complement to complete the design experience. its stunning hues—
whether classic or bold—offer unparalleled resilience, which is paramount to delighting consumers.” With over 95% of urban bonfire kitchens also specifically featuring dekton countertops, both brands agreed an alliance felt like a natural fit and the next logical step. Throughout the course of 2019, urban bonfire dealer partner showrooms will be updated with interactive outdoor kitchen displays that showcase the latest from dekton, as well as sample towers, so that visitors can see the beauty and durability firsthand. Trade shows will also serve as key touchpoints, highlighting the brands’ synergies of materials, colors, and aesthetics for outdoor living and entertainment spaces. The partnership was recently celebrated at the Kitchen & bath industry show in las vegas and the Ad design show in new
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An Urban Bonfire kitchen with Dekton by Cosentino surface
york City, where urban bonfire received the ifdA best Kitchen Award. upcoming shows include Chicago’s Casual market and the West edge design fair in santa monica, California. “The consumer perception of outdoor living is rapidly evolving,” says patty dominguez, vp of architecture and design sales for Cosentino north America. “it brings a demand for materials that look and feel like what we have indoors—all with the ability to beautifully endure the elements. educating and streamlining the purchasing process has never been more important, and we’re
delighted to start this new journey with our friends at urban bonfire.” This may, the partnership will come to life at a new urban bonfire outdoor Kitchen design boutique at yale Appliance + lighting in boston. This first-of-its-kind “store in store” concept will tell a comprehensive outdoor design story, showcasing the latest from urban bonfire, dekton by Cosentino, and Hestan Grills. The program will later roll out across other industry-leading luxury appliance retailers like pirCH, snyder diamond, and AbT, among others.
Weber lAunCHes neW Genesis ii Grills Weber-stephen products llC, the world’s largest manufacturer of charcoal, gas and electric grills and grilling accessories, recently introduced new models of its popular Genesis ii gas grill line, now with more features and value. The Genesis ii lineup includes 3-burner and 4-burner models, with step-ups that include features such as a dedicated sear station and side burner to expand the grilling possibilities. models come in stainless steel or a range of porcelain enameled colors, including black, copper, crimson and smoke. The Genesis ii lineup kicks off with 3burner models, including an open cart e310 ($959) available in black and stainless steel (s-310, $1,107). The step-up to the e-315 model, available in black and copper, ($1,008) features a closed cart for hidden storage. The e-330 grills— available in black, copper, smoke and crimson ($1,057) adds a powerful sear
“We have long admired Castelle’s manufacturing capabilities and its very productive Costa Rica facility,” says Gene Moriarty, president and chief executive officer of Brown Jordan International.
station, reaching high temperatures to provide perfect sear marks, as well as a handy side burner. The e-335 comes in black ($1,107) and stainless steel (s-335, $1,206). both feature a closed cart front storage area. The line’s 4-burner models include the open cart e-410 ($1,156, available in black) and the step-up e-435 model featuring a sear station and side burner. The e-435 is available in black ($1,395) and stainless steel ($1,457). All Genesis ii grills feature two stationary side tables for maximum durability; a center-mounted, built-in thermometer; and a front-mounted lid handle for a sleek, premium look. The heart of the Genesis ii line is Weber’s innovative Gs4 High performance Grilling system, which features electronic infinity ignition guaranteed to light quickly and easily every time; tapered burners to allow for precise heat distribution; flavorizer bars to help
“We are excited for the opportunity to leverage our complementary customer relationships, product lines and financial strength with the Castelle team. The brand has a long-established reputation
Genesis II from Weber
reduce flare-ups, and a front-access grease management system for quick clean-ups. Weber offers an industry-leading 10-year warranty on all parts—from the wheels to the hood—on all Genesis ii series grills. each grill also includes a docking station for the iGrill 3 App-connected digital thermometer that monitors cooking times and temperatures, sending alerts to any mobile device (sold separately, $99). All prices are msrp.
for outstanding quality furniture, and we are excited about its potentialfor growth.” Rory Rehmert will remain as the senior vice president, sales for the Castelle residential business. “Rory has led the
sales efforts over the last 11 years for the company and has been instrumental in its growth. We look forward to working with Rory and his team,” Moriarty says. Steven Kalter, principal of Littlejohn, which acquired Brown Jordan International in 2017, added, “Brown Jordan’s board of directors is committed to supporting the company and its management team for the long term and see significant growth from this transaction and future opportunities.”
piT boss Grills mAKes A-mAZe-n AddiTion Pit Boss Grills has acquired A-MAZE-N Smokin’ Products, which are operated by Rhonda and Todd Johnson of Eagan, Minnesota. Pit Boss will retain the A-MAZE-N product line, brand name and core designs. The Pit Boss and A-MAZE-IN teams will work together to launch updates and new items to the product assortment. The Johnsons will draw on their years of cooking experience and barbecue passion to bring innovative products to the ever expanding #PitBossNation. “Rhonda and Todd are great additions to the team,” says Jeff Thiessen, president of Pit Boss Grills. “Their out-
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MAY/JUNE 2019 | PATIO & HEARTH PRODUCTS REPORT • 15
NEWS
INDUSTRY
oW lee Wins 4 Adex AWArds for sTudio, CAsuAl fireside ColleCTions
going personalities and passion have led them down an A-MAZE-N path (pun intended). We are excited about the energy they bring to the team.” When the Johnsons began to investigate their options to increase operations, a solution quickly became evident. “After watching Pit Boss grow over the years and witnessing their success with taking products to market, we wanted that same accomplishment for our product,” Rhonda says. “We are excited to continue to help grow A-MAZE-N, as well as Pit Boss. We have put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into building the brand name and its loyal customer base. We are grateful to be a part of this continued opportunity.” This acquisition is the latest in Pit Boss’ ongoing commitment to provide best-in-class products, innovation and community value to its customers.
ontario, California-based oW lee has been named an Studio daybed Adex award winner in the platinum and Gold categories for 2019. The four award-winning products include the studio daybed, studio lounge chair, and the basso firepit, all earning the platinum distinction. The company’s forma firepit earned an award in the Gold category.“i am honored and flattered that not one but four of our 2019 product introductions were chosen for this distinguished award,” says paul rogers, director of product development. Adex stands for Awards for design excellence and is the largest and most prestigious awards program for product and project design in the A&d (architecture & design) industry. An anonymous panel of design professionals, which are among the industry’s most respected, conduct all voting for the Adex Awards. each category has the potential for three award levels of platinum, gold, or silver. Judges award points in several categories for each entry. Total points earned determine each product’s score. minimum scores are needed to qualify for each award level. Studio lounge chair
Forma firepit
Circle Reader Service No. 16
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Basso firepit
July 28 - august 1, 2019 Register Now at LasVegasMarket.com Circle Reader Service No. 17
SPOTLIGHT
PRODUCT
Veranda Classics’ Bradley fire chat set from Foremost Groups
RELAX ANDSTAYAWHILE This season’s exceptional furniture offerings are essential for celebrating the alfresco lifestyle. By GREG THOMPSON
The line between fire feature and furniture is a bit blurry these days. Plank & Hide Co., offers a coffee table that “converts to a firepit in one easy slidetop motion,” while countless other tables feature inviting flames. Other items have a comforting familiarity that encourages people to relax and stay awhile. The grill sizzles, the umbrella cools, but the furniture is literally where the seat meets the seat. Whether it’s wood, plastic, fabric, or proprietary material, consumers want something comfortable, inviting, and
beautiful. What constitutes beautiful? It depends on who you ask. “The biggest trend we’re seeing is an expanded color palette for both finishes and fabrics,” says Jess Flanders, vice president of marketing at Lloyd Flanders (Menominee, Michigan). “We’re seeing a significant increase in our bolder loom finishes. We sold 10 times more products in our denim blue finish last year than we did the year before, and our sage and sea glass finishes also saw a substantial increase of 53%
and 40% respectively.” “Gray is hot and black is on a comeback,” says Tom Murray, president and co-owner of NorthCape (Alsip, Illinois). As for size, Murray adds, “Some smaller piece furniture sets that fit in smaller spaces” are also gaining in popularity. Terri Lee Rogers, president and vice president of sales at OW Lee Co. (Ontario, California) agrees: “We see a trend toward cleaner lines and smaller scale. We have introduced deep seating additions to
Bay Breeze deep seating collection from C.R. Plastic Products
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many of our existing collections that are a little smaller scale.” The dozen manufacturers in this issue’s spotlight are always looking for the next big (or small) thing, but they instinctively know that what is old can suddenly become new. Get ideas for this year, and next, in the ensuing pages. C.R. PLASTIC PRODUCTS Iconic Adirondack Chairs at C.R. Plastic Products (Stratford, Ontario, Canada) remain the company’s flagship furniture items. As described by Meaghan Robinson, director of marketing, the venerable chairs are, “the ultimate in comfort, and have a unique fit and finish made possible by our vertically integrated manufacturing process that allows us to produce contoured slats, custom molded arms, and radius slats.” C.R. Plastic Products’ Stratford collection and Bay Breeze deep seating collections are best-sellers and are typically paired with Sunbrella fabrics. Robinson sees “a lot of future growth” in the collections, thanks partly to the continuing view that outdoor furniture should be an extension of the indoor space and aesthetic.
Belle Isle sling from Telescope Casual
Studio by OW Lee
ucts as well,” Robinson adds. “Outdoor performance fabrics can transform a collection and really elevate the overall aesthetic.”
Glenwood firepit dining set from Agio, USA
The Portofino from NorthCape
“Consumers have high expectations of the quality and comfort they expect in their outdoor spaces, and we intend to meet those expectations,” Robinson says. “Our deep seating collections have a real designer feel while still having all the functionality and longevity of recycled plastic furniture. We are excited to continue to develop our deep seating collections as well as develop new and innovative designs to fit these growing consumer needs.” C.R. Plastic Products is well placed to take advantage of increased environmental awareness, with more consumers wanting to purchase products that are sustainable and North American made. “People want to know where and what
their products are made of now,” Robinson says. “There are more and more sustainable shoppers who are using their spending power to invest in p urchasing sustainable products. With environmental issues we are facing today, and the banning of single-use plastics at the forefront of many news cycles right now, this will continue to have a large impact on purchasing decisions.” Outdoor fabric plays a huge role in the design and creation of C.R. Plastic’s deep seating collections, with a wide range of available Sunbrella outdoor performance fa brics. “Offering accessories like headrests and throw pillows are a great way to add dimension through color and texture to prod-
NORTHCAPE Even with a successful formula in place, NorthCape (Alsip, Illinois) recently made improvements with a full reorganization of global operations and bolstered customer service under the leadership of Chris Sutter, new director of operations. Through it all, the company’s Portofino high back transitional with 16mm weave has remained strong at the higher price point. At the lower price point, the Hixon collection (a teak and aluminum mix) has started “really strong” in 2019, says Tom Murray, president and co-owner. “Our Universal Program motion, chaise, table storage, and dining is helping many collections—along with several sets that all take the same cushion size,” he says. “We have a ’universal’ seat size that works with nine of our collections, and that helps sell all nine.” Murray and his team carefully consider fabric options depending on the specific application. “Sunbrella has the strongest share currently with their solution-dyed acry lic fabrics, and they have a great product and delivery system,” Murray says. “Solution-dyed polys are coming on with solid color fastness performance and structure strength; pigment printed polys are the OPP, and we do not see much in the seat cushions anymore.” NorthCape’s made-in-the-USA products inhabit what Murray sees as a value-oriented space, “but that does not mean cheap.” Covering a wide range of material and retail price points, materials used include, “HDPE resin woven material in various extrusions and colors, extruded aluminum, outdoor upholstered, sling, PolyFlex, rope, teak, solution-dyed acrylics, solution-dyed polys, and some OPP pigment printed polys and olefins.” Dealers appreciate the solid margins and quickship/express-ship deliveries, in addition to partnerships with fabric suppliers for customization and exceptional product warranties. “We have a quick-ship cushion program for up to 40 Sunbrella fabrics made in our two factories in the United States,” Murray explains. “We have an extensive warehouse program for frames from our two U.S. factories, with pricing programs for dealers—truckload, LTL, residential drop-ship—and no minimums.”
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SPOTLIGHT
PRODUCT
Grand Terrace woven seating collection with a Lattice fire table top and a Paradise base from Gensun
Judd collection from Plank & Hide
GENSUN It’s been a busy 2019 at Gensun (Rancho Cucamonga, California) with nine new seating collections: Alexee, Barclay, Echelon, Lida, Manhattan II, Morro Bay, Paragon, Plank, and Rio. Add to that three new table collections—Fusion, Plank and Talia—plus PGS grills and appliances, an outdoor heater, ambiance fire features, new fabric, new frame colors, and other accessories, and it all adds up to the largest new product offering in Gensun’s 18-year history. “Transitional and contemporary designs are growing and Gensun has introduced many designs over the last few years in response to this trend,” says Jan Trinkley, president. “Firepits and fire tables continue to be hot outdoor products. Last but definitely not least, outdoor kitchens are a significant product consumers are looking to add to their outdoor space. Gensun offers significant des igns and many new product designs in all of these categories and gives consumers the ability to coordinate design and color for the ultimate outdoor décor.” Cushions are custom made and tailored to furniture designs. “We use the best fill and fabrics available,” Trinkley adds. “For customers who want the benefit of quick-dry cushions, Gensun manufactures a "RAIN" cushion that uses Sunbrella "RAIN" fabri cs and complies with the stringent testing required by Sunbrella…with all of that, the year is starting strong with many retailers experiencing good sales early. If we can have some fair weather
this spring, it could be a banner year for outdoor furniture and kitchens.” LLOYD FLANDERS Lloyd Flanders’ (Menominee, Michigan) iconic Reflections collection remains a best-seller, with the Reflections lounge chair its top overal l performer. Jess Flanders, vice president of marketing, credits Reflections’ success to its “timeless look that works well in a wide variety of settings.” Specifically, the collection is available in 19 custom finishes and more than 400 fabrics, with three back pillow options. “The ability to create a custom look makes this a retail favorite,” Flanders says. “It’s unusual for a collection to find retail success across all regions, but Reflections is a proven seller throughout the country. When you can change the finish, fabric, and back pillows, you can create a look that sells anywhere.” Flanders reports that three new 2019 collections (All Seasons, Martinique, and Verona) have so far been incredibly well received. “It’s a smaller scale group that’s available with or without cushions,” Flanders explains. “The non-cushion version has a Lloyd Loom seat that’s padded with reticulated foam. The scale is perfect for spaces that have a smaller footprint, like balconies, porches, and terraces. Since All Seasons is available in all of our 19 loom finishes, it’s easy to add a pop of color even without a cushion.” Flanders has its eye on the growing trend for motion seating, particularly
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All Seasons padded swing from Lloyd Flanders
porch swings and swivel glider recliners. “Our motion pieces continue to rise in popularity,” Flanders says. “As people spend more and more time in their outdoor spaces, they want maximum comfort and versatility. Gliders, rockers, and swivels are a great way to take the comfort level one step further.” PLANK & HIDE CO. Innovation in the world of firepit design continues with the patented functional coffee table from Plank & Hide Co. (Cincinnati Ohio). According to Chris Probst, president, the coffee table “converts to firepit in one easy slide-top motion, locking in place for both warmth and ambiance, and not losing any coffee table space for drinks and snacks.” Paired with new operational efficiencies, the eye-catching variation bodes well for what Probst anticipates will be a “very good” 2019. “We’ve strengthened positions with factory partners to contain and, in many cases, reduce costs,” explains Probst. “We’ve also eliminated current and future tariff concerns while not giving up valuable price/volume positions we hold with factory partners. Furthermore, we’ve consolidated factories to simplify the container buy process with our customers and have also moved some production of our more popular groups to Vietnam.” Probst reports that firepits “sell out eve ry year,” and this market season will feature an assortment of Plank & Hide’s new square and rectangular units, plus low profile and standard height, that will be on display at the company’s Chicago and Las Vegas showrooms. “Every dealer in the firepit business should take a second look at Plank & Hide, because our design, functionality, and value proposition will elevate every retail show-
room, eliminate competitive concerns, and maximize margin. The retailer truly wins with a move to P&H fire.” New launches for the 2019-20 season include the Functional Firepit Program with Plank & Hide’s universal Casual Dining Program that features three tables and multiple chair options. “The Lily Farmhouse is a full outdoor living farmhouse-inspired collection, and it’s a must see,” Probst says. “Nevis is a beauti ful new modern addition to our outdoor living collections. Wider and softer cushion seating, straight-line design, and synthetic all-weather wider-weave rattan give Nevis a simple but sophisticated look. Fully welded aluminum frames and a beautiful hand-finish elevate the quality,” he continues. “We take no shortcuts in design quality, comfort, and of course price.” Another notable collection is Plan k & Hide’s Judd group, which is constructed of a beautiful basket weave wrapped around fully welded frames. “Finally, there’s an outdoor seating group that provides in-season weather protection from all the elements for the seat and back cushions,” Probst says. The top and bottom frame panels seamlessly open to provide concealed water resistant in-season storage for cushions. “This keeps cushions clean and dry all season long,” he says. AGIO, USA In 2018, Agio, USA introduced an outdoor brand fully dedicated to specialty retailers. Dubbed Apricity, meaning warmth of the sun, it debuted last July at Chicago Pre-market. Spring 2019 marks the first time consumers can purchase the Apricity brand from retailers. “As we continue to push to have collections introduced earlier in the year for our retailers, the fee dback we found on these collections was tremendous,” says Mike Gaylord, vice president of sales. “We believe these are the types of new looks their customers will be clamoring for, so I hope those showrooms are ‘outdoor ready.’” The Apricity product development team is working to push the envelope even further with new materials and applications. “It’s all about outdoor entertaining,” Gaylord says. “After t wo years in development, Agio and Apricity will soon launch a group of collections made from Resysta, a completely wood-free engineered product made from organic materials that pro-
Circle Reader Service No. 21
SPOTLIGHT
PRODUCT
Current collection from CabanaCoast
what Pierson characterizes as “strong margins, low inventory, aggressive freight lock-ins, exclusive finishes, and co-sponsored promotions.” Ultimately, she says, “Growing consumer awareness and understanding of POLYWOOD is increasing demand for more styles and designs. This category will continue to grow in marke t share, and we have just begun to scratch the surface in our capacity to respond to the demand.” Braxton deep seating from POLYWOOD
vides a sustainable new alternative to wood and faux wood products.” Designers created Resysta using allnatural products, primarily rice husks (approximately 60 percent), rock salts and mineral oil. Resysta products have the look and feel of natural tropical wood, which Gaylord says offers many advantages over conventional materials such as wood, WPC, or common board materials. Finis hed products are weather-resistant, waterproof, UV-resistant, and 100 percent recyclable. “If that weren’t enough, the production process itself is environmentally friendly with little to no landfill waste created,” Gaylord says. “Resysta can be produced in a wide range of colors but has the capability to be shaped and curved, yet unlike wood, does not crack.” Resysta received the prestigious Green Product Award, which recognizes innovation and sustainably designed products for consumption. Additional investments in equipment, factory, and infrastructure have bolstered the technical resources needed to produce the product. POLYWOOD Many retailers know the classic Adirondack from POLYWOOD (Syracuse, Indiana), the company’s first product launched almost 30 years ago. According to Megan Pierson, senior vice president of business develop-
ment, the Adirondack remains the company’s best-selling product. In addition to manufacturing the iconic chair, POLYWOOD has long worked on its operational efficiencies. “What makes POLYWOOD stand out is our quick fulfillment,” Pierson says. “All of our products ship within 10 days. Our fast turnaround times allow our specialty partners to carry little to no inventory. The add ition of a second facility in North Carolina will play a key role in our commitment to deliver a growing line of products with shorter lead times. As we grow the category, we will maintain focus on our core competencies, retail partners, and end consumers.” Buoyed by the early success of motion deep seating and fire tables, company officials anticipate strong growth as they expand vintage finish options. Multiple options help maintain a variety of price points, which POLYWOOD is keen to continue. “Today’s consumer wants endless options and fast delivery,” Pierson says. “Our build-to-order manufacturing process has allowed us to offer thousands of available product options without inventory commitment. Our retail partners are meeting consumer expectations by utilizing our 3- to 10-day lead times acros s the full line of POLYWOOD products.” Retailers appreciate POLYWOOD sales programs based on
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FOREMOST GROUPS INC. Foremost Groups Inc. (East Hanover, New Jersey) has added two new firepits (Colton and Darwin) to its Afterglow firepit product line, bringing the total to seven value firepits that can ship within 48 hours. Tim Anderson, executive vice president of home division, has seen “mixed materials” gain traction, which helps p rovide higher-end looks at value pricing. “We are seeing demand for small column fire even replacing the traditional bistro table,” Anderson says. “The market continues to also see growth in natural finishes like rock and wood looking pieces [firepits] both as a centerpiece for chat sets, and accent fire around the patio setting. We are also seeing high demand for fire tables.” Addressing small space urban solutions continues to be an ongoing trend, as well as woven sectionals and larger dining sets in some areas of the country. “Trends continue to be strong in darker grays and browns with the lighter variations along the coast,” Anderson says. “Most are using fabrics to bring a punch of color. And new ways of using existing materials are expanding the limits of what is possible in outdoor.” Park Shore, Harbor, Lake Port, Sullivan, and Vineyard are all new collections in Foremost’s mainline program, “and we also added Hillcrest, Laurelton, Lemoore, Mulberry, and Tanglewood to our domestic warehouse program,” Anderson says.
Firepits and tables are a big part of Anderson’s business plan. Expanding beyond the more than 20 different firepit configurations is a priority. “From lower priced all-metal designs and our proprietary TerraFab tables and all aluminum pits, we are continuing to push the limits in this firepit category,” Anderson adds. “We have eight full line table groupings that fit in multiple design settings. This allows retailers more flexibility to accessorize their selection with different looks not available anywhere else—and they can pull from our domestic inventory at any time of the year.” CABANACOAST At its core, CabanaCoast (Mississauga, Ontario, Canada) is a fashion-forward luxury outdoor furniture brand with a knack for contemporary design. When Lindsay Liepold, director of sales, U.S., attended her first Chicago market four years ago, dealers said they loved the designs but many were too modern for their local market. “The Canadian furniture market, particularly in Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, is strongly influenced by European design, and we were a little bit ahead of the times then,” Liepold says. “However, I am very happy to see that modern has become much more mainstream in the U.S. market, and that even the traditional has moved to transitional now…I don’t hear this type of comment [too modern] anymore.” CabanaCoast is betting heavily on its modern sensibilities, launching nine new collections last year and 10 new collections this year. “This shocks some folks because we already have a very comprehensive product lineup, which includes conversation, dining, balcony and bar heights, firepits, umbrellas, and other accessories,” Liepold says. “But we moved to our new, purpose-built facility at the end of 2017, and we intend to make full use of its space. We now count more than 2,700 pro ducts within our lineup.” Of particular note is the Cove collection, which Liepold says is “all about mixed materials” with a powder-coated aluminum with accents in “our new SOL Rope materials and in our very popular SOL Teak MGP material.” With a fresh and organic vibe, the collection hit the right note with its retail dealer network and with commercial customers.
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SPOTLIGHT
PRODUCT
Left: Malibu swivel gliding lounge chairs and sofa from Portica by Sunvilla with a rectangular firepit and embossed wood grain top
CabanaCoast’s Current collection builds on the foundation of its existing sling collections— Millcroft, Hockley and Swing— which Liepold says is “quite popular with the Millennial demographic, who don’t want to deal with cushion maintenance.” Current employs Batyline sling fabric, which is well-known in the commercial sector for its wearability, married with an aluminum frame in a new, hand-brushed Patina gray finish. “Generous in scale with clean lines, Current harkens to the adage, ‘Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.’” PORTICA BY SUNVILLA Positive reviews greeted two new collections from Portica by Sunvilla (City of Industry, California) this year. First off the line was the Augusta, featuring all aluminum in a slate finish with sling and cushion options, as well as a high-back lounge and swivel lounge. “Our second collection is Malibu,” says Christy Peterson, national sales manager. “It is fully woven in a 3 mm round weave over an aluminum frame. The weave color has a gray graining and has gotten a lot of positive response. The great thing about both of these collections is that they can be merchandised together because of the similar colorway.” A new domestic cushion program uses Sunbrella fabrics that are available through th e cut yardage program. “We’re working with an amazing partner who builds a top-notch cushion with typically a three-week lead time,” Peterson says. “We’ve had some retailers take advantage of this already and look forward to gaining some traction with designers.” Getting a look at these innovative products will get a little easier when Portica by Sunvilla products moves to the 15th floor of the Merchan dise Mart. The company will keep its exist-
ing space on the 16th floor, where Peterson says, “We will showcase our Royal Garden and Royal Shade brands. We feel like the move to 15 will solidify our presence in the specialty arena and hopefully open us up to some new customers who do not typically shop the 16th floor.” Portica by Sunvilla sits at the middle price point, but there is a range within that middle that provides plenty of options. “We want to tell a story with our products and help retailers tell a story with their product offerings,” Peterson explains. “Having several price points helps to tell that story. As manufacturers, we need to know our customers and what they are looking for. We can push those boundaries sometimes, but we’ve found it’s best to stick within the price ranges that have worked for us over the past five years.” OW LEE CO. New product introductions from OW Lee Co. (Ontario, California) in recent years have included transitional styles with cleaner lines. Meanwhile, increased offerings in aluminum have captured more sales in coastal markets. Terri Lee Rogers, president and vice president of sales, has more than two decades of experience at the venerable OW Lee, and she has helped usher in the Studio collection, a modern aluminum collection; the Pasadera collection, a transitional iron grouping; Basso & Forma firepits; Quadra tables; and Pendleton fabrics and Flex Comfort, a knitted parabolic fabric that is more comfortable and durable than sling. Rogers says Monterra deep seating is a still a best-seller, primarily due to its comfort, while firepits and tables are known for reliability and quality. “Fabrics and cushioning play a huge role in the design and creation of our products,” she says. “In many cases, the cushions are the focal point of the collection. We use only solutiondyed acrylic fabrics, and we try to pick fabrics that are unique and will
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stand out as different from the masses, such as our collaboration with Pendleton and Sunbrella.” Firepits and fire tables constitute approximately 30 percent of OW Lee’s business, and it continues to be a popular category. “We have been manufacturing firepits for more that 15 years, and we feel we are the best in the industry,” Rogers says. “We also make sure that our firepits are certified pursuant to the ANSI and CSA safety standards. The depth of many of our collections helps with additional and/or future sales. Customers may order for a specific part of the patio, often returning to the dealer months or years later to add on to a different outdoor area.” OW Lee targets higher-end specialty retailers who Rogers believes understand the long-term value of the company’s products. “The biggest development in manufacturing overall is the move away from manufacturing in the United States,” she says. “This is not our business model because we feel you lose control of the quality of materials that are used in making your products. For us, a move to automation is one way we can compete against the cost of foreign labor. “We have a quick-ship program on a limited number of collections, but part of our appeal is that we make outdoor furniture that is made to the specifications of the customer,” Rogers says. “We offer t housands of different fabric options; all collections are available in all frame colors (14), as well as a myriad of options of size and materials on our firepits and fire tables.” TELESCOPE CASUAL FURNITURE Telescope Casual Furniture (Granville, New York) recently launched its first dealer portal. Referred to as “Teleport,” it is integrated directly into the company’s website. “Brick-and-mortar retailers are some of the busiest people we have ever met,” says Kait Warren, market-
ing manager. “Their stores are open during most of the daylight hours. We find many retailers are emailing us late in the evening hours when the stores are closed for the day and their families have quieted down for the night.” Before the portal, Telescope Casual officials were only able to answer retailers’ questions, status checks, and inquiries the next business morning. With Teleport, retailers can easily submit a purchase order to customer service, check order status, make a payment to an invoice, download and print newly formatted statements, track shipments, obtain multiple versions of pricing on printable PDF spec sheets, update their dealer listing on the website’s dealer search, and much more. “This portal will be an invaluable tool for our retailers, day or night,” Warren says. “We have designed Teleport in the most user-friendly way. Because the portal is hosted on www.telescopecasual.com, it is PC, Mac and mobile friendly. Teleport is accessible from your showroom floor, office, car, or even on a plane. You’ll always be in touch with Telescope.” The new portal follows a technological trend that began in earnest during the Spring of 2017 when Telescope launched its Design Show case program, which gave customers the ability to customize the color of products directly on the website. “Design Showcase greatly facilitates the design process of creating and building your outdoor space,” Warren explains. “This customization program also includes the ability to export exact PDF spec sheets. This year, we have expanded upon the PDF feature even more. Now, when logged into the dealer po rtal, customers are able to select pricing parameters to show on each customized spec sheet.” Users can access the new web portal to research or order Telescope Casual favorites such as the Belle Isle collection, which features full groups of sling and cushion products, as well as four versatile cushion sectional pieces. “Belle Isle is sure to be a win with its sleek yet transitional design, which lends itself to any application,” Warren says. “Belle Isle was introduced in 2015 and continues to be a showstopper.”
Circle Reader Service No. 25
HEARTH RETAILER
MATTERSOF
Fireplaces Plus has over 50 burning hearth displays in its 6,000-square-foot showroom
Iowa retailer says dedicated employees are the key to store’s success over the past 30 years. BY K I M B E R LY R O D G E R S | P H OTO G R A P H Y BY G I R A F F E P H OTO G R A P H Y
K
eith Beyhl, owner of Fireplaces Plus (Bettendorf, Iowa), began his career in the hearth industry in 1973 with his first high school job bagging lava rock for barbecue grills at a local fireplace store. Beyhl ended up working at the family-owned shop through high school and beyond. “The store expanded, and they needed more employees and I was in the right place at the right time,” he says. Beyhl learned a lot about the industry from working at the hearth shop—
from selling and installing wood stoves and fireplaces to barbecue grills. He remained there for several years but realized there was little opportunity to become a bigger part of a family operation. “There was really only one option, so I opened my own business,” he says. Beyhl chose to take that leap when his wife was eight months pregnant with their second child. “I kind of started on a shoestring.” With a lot support from his family and the encouragement of some local contrac-
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tors, Beyhl launched his own path in the hearth industry in 1989, initially as an installing dealer for local builders. “With no chance of advancement, and an increase in new construction, there was plenty of room in our market for another hearth retailer.” In those first years, Beyhl focused on the builder side while he slowly added some retail. Initially, his market was about 80 percent builder and 20 percent retail. “I then saw the light of more profit on the retail side and the willingness of the
THE HEARTH The store has been serving the hearth needs of its customers for three decades and has been in the same location for 15 years
Keith and Carol Beyhl
consumer to buy high-end hearth products.” Beyhl has since gravitated toward the end-user market with the balance now about 70 percent retail and 30 percent builder. “We don’t ever want to forget the builder, by any means, but we have put a bit more focus on retail.” Fireplaces Plus has been serving all the hearth needs of the Quad Cities region (a collection of cities in Iowa and Illinois) for three decades. The showroom has been at the same spot for the last 15 years and is located in a commercial development where the majority of tenants are complementary businesses. “We all have similar clients, so it’s more convenient for all of our customers to shop with us as opposed to going to a big-box store or other retailer,” Beyhl states. The 6,000square-foot showroom is conside rably larger than most of the retailer’s competitors, which has also been a benefit of the location. Over 50 burning displays showcase the wide variety of hearth products, which include gas/wood/electric fireplaces, inserts, and stoves, along with multi-fuel options and gas logs. “The customer wants to see the product burn rather than a picture of it,” Beyhl explains. Gas products are the main types of he arth units consumers are requesting, mainly for the fuel’s convenience in both new construction remodeling projects. A wide variety of top hearth manufacturers are offered. The star lineup includes Mendota, Napoleon, Travis Industries, DaVinci, Regency Fireplace Products, Town & Country, Pacific Energy, HearthStone, Enerzone, and Valcourt. Since Fireplaces Plus is not brand specific, Beyhl believes the sto re gives its customers the broadest
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HEARTH RETAILER selection available in the region. He adds, “All of our suppliers are companies we work well with, and they know us on a first name basis rather than just being an account number.” One such company, Mendota, a big seller for the store, gave Beyhl and Fireplaces Plus some much-needed support when he started the business. He says, “Mendota started as a small company several years ago and now the company has grown s ignificantly. We have been fortunate to have grown right along with them.” Outdoor products, from fireplaces and firepits to the ever-popular Big Green Egg, as well as a large selection of barbecue accessories, are also available. The store did carry patio furniture for a short period, but Beyhl says he made the wise decision to exit the category. “Our market for patio is a disposable one and quality was not a concern to our customers. At the same time, our showroom is prima-
rily dedicated to hearth and you need a lot of display space to do patio any justice.” Fireplaces Plus sets itself apart from the competition by focusing on what it does Fireplaces Plus represents a wide variety best—providing of top-name hearth manufacturers the best quality trainable and willing to learn the ropes. “Our indusproducts and superior service to its customers. try is capable of providing education and training Beyhl says his employees are essential in the store’s people to do the work. We just need a workforce continued success. “We have p eople that have been with us over 20 years and, in this industry, that is that is ready to come to work and put in an effort.” hard to replace.” His concerns for the future health All installation, serv ice, and warranty work is provided by highly trained and knowledgeable of the hearth industry is finding employees who are Fireplace Plus employees. Beyhl has seen his service department expand as a result of a maintenance program that began about 10 years ago. The program is communicated to clients through a directmail campaign. “We have seen about a 30-40 percent return on our direct-mail efforts for the maintenance program, which is amazing.” He adds, “We have been in business a long time and have many customers with many older products, and people realize those products need some attention.” A designated employee handles all marketing, which is primarily done online and on different social media platforms. Television commercials are run during the fall with minimal print advertising used throughout the year. “The internet has been very good for us and quite prosperous,” Beyhl notes. The hearth season used to run about seven to eight months, but now Fireplaces Plus is busy just about all year long. “We started the season early and are still running at a pretty good pace.” Like a majority of the Midwest, Iowa experienced extreme cold temperatures during the winter of 2019. However, customers who purchased products from Fireplaces Plus were pre pared. “Because we install most of the products we sell, we were able to eliminate most of the cold air problems people can experience with their hearths during extreme winter weather,” Beyhl says. He notes that people will definitely not forget the winter of 2018-19 and adds, “If you are a smart hearth retailer, you will definitely remind customers in your marketing this fall.” Over the years, Beyhl has seen a lot of changes in the hearth industry. “We’ve gone from wood-burning stoves to fireplaces run by Bluetooth technology.” With such a big evolution, Beyhl believes a readiness to hire quality employees to help him grow as a business and adapt has been extremely helpful and productive. “I am thankful for my employees—they are the nucleus of my business. Without their knowledge, hard work, and loyalty, I would not be celebrating 30 years in business. They Circle Reader Service No. 28 keep an old guy like me in balance.”
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Circle Reader Service No. 29
OUTDOOR GRILLING
JUST FINEONLINE Affordable Outdoor Kitchens doesn’t shy away from internet competition. BY CHERYL DANGEL BARTOLINI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAN GRATZ
Affordable Outdoor Kitchens displays a wide variety of grills to help customers with their purchasing decisions
Instead of being a nemesis, the internet is actually a boon to Karen and Kevin Fox, co-owners of Affordable Outdoor Kitchens (Millersville, Maryland). While other retailers blame the growth of the internet for draining their sales of outdoor grills and accessories, the Foxes appreciate what the internet has done for them. Could winning over the internet all be a matter of perspective? Several years ago, Kevin Fox taught high-end lighting and knew just about every contractor in town. He’d always hear them complaining about how the grill they purchased on the internet arrived damaged. Kevin and his wife, Karen, knew a little something about grills and especially, outdoor kitchens. They built their own and it turned out amazing. They credit the outdoor kitchen with being th e one factor that helped sell their home quickly. So, Kevin asked his contractor friends, “If I could get the grills you want, would you buy them from me?” His contractor friends were happy to have an alternative because where they were located in
Maryland, there were no brick and mortar stores that offered the kind of quality demanded by contractors. Karen remembers, “We started part-time with a small investment, a storage unit, and a truck in 2011. We even stored some things in our garage.” The first year, they did $100,000 in sales. In 2013, Kevin quit his job while Karen worked part-time at the store and full time with her own business as a certified health interventionist. They got a very small showroom space and expanded their product offering. In 2017, Karen gave up her business to join the store full-time as its chief financial officer, while Kevin worked as president. This year, they expect sales to top $3 million. “It was the right idea,” Karen says in regard to their phenomenal growth. “There was a void in the market in Maryland and northern Virginia. Add to that, the increased popularity of the outdoor kitchen. My husband also knew all the right people and had all the contacts.” These cont acts were hungry for the kind of service that Affordable Outdoor Kitchens could provide along with a
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price point that could easily do battle with internet pricing. “We sell competitively but we also have service that no one can touch with a stick.” Karen states that a variety of factors sets their company apart from others. “We know the grills. In our area, if you want to buy a grill, you go to an indoor appliance store or a plumbing supply house and they might carry one or two grill lines and they typically don’t know anything about them or the differences.” People come to Affordable Outdoor Kitchens because they can look at all the most popular grills, which are all on display, including offerings from Twin Eagles, Memphis Wood Fired Grills, Fire Magic, Blaze, Coyote Outdoor Living, Bull Outdoor, AOG, and Summerset Professional Grills. They can also compare. More importantly, Affordable Outdoor Kitchens lives up to its name and sells grills at internet prices unlike other specialty dealers who can’t compete with bare-bones internet price tags. “We can do it because of our volume,” Karen says. “We don’t lose sales very often. Buyers are happy
Given that their background is not in grills, kitchens, or construction, you’d think the learning curve would have been pretty steep, but it wasn’t too bad. Having built their own outdoor kitchen in 2000, they knew many of the ins and outs. “Kevin is incredible with design,” Karen says. “It comes naturally to him and people told him that he should be doing this for a living. That thought just never left.” Karen, the daughter of an engineer, has always had a mind for the technical side of things, so when they would add a new brand, they quickly learned the differences in the grills and what set one model apart from another. To handle their growth, two of their sons have joined the business and work fulltime while another helps out as needed. The workload is divided into niches, so everyone is an expert at something. “First off, all of us know the grills inside and out,” Karen says. “Then, we each have a specialty.” Kevin is the expert in fire and light. He knows all the safety considerations and regularly specs firepits for big companies and hotels. Their son, Brent, works as general manager, and knows everything there is to know about the five lines of outdoor cabinets they carry. Brian handles the 3D design work and is moving into sales for multifamily residences. He also is familiar with furniture. Karen is the goto person for furniture and she handles all the
Left to right: Kevin, Karen, Brent, and Brian Fox
Attractive props and accessories help customers imagine their dream outdoor kitchens Forno Toscano pizza oven with Big Green Egg accessories
with the purchases they make because we will match them up with the grill that’s right for them.” For example, a buyer may initially think they want a $5,000 grill but once they learn more about the grill and the other options, they may end up with a $2,500 grill that will actually serve them better. “Builders also like that we will deliver to the job site and we will troubleshoot on the job site. If the customer has a problem, they call us. We will explain how to use the features and show them how to use the grills.”
finances. Their son, Chris, has a full-time job elsewhere and is a student, but he helps out when needed by updating the website. All in all, everyone is pretty busy these days. “It is nuts,” Karen says. “Typically, December and January are our two slowest months, but we’ve had record sales.” They moved into a new space in 2017, and in 2018, sales increased 40%. The move tripled their size, which now includes much-needed warehouse space. The space has about 7,000 square feet, up from 1 ,600 square feet in their old
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OUTDOOR GRILLING location, which they’ve hung onto as a staging area for furniture deliveries. Interestingly, Karen says the DC metropolitan economy is unlike any other metro area. “Recession and financial collapse don’t apply to this market due to the number of government workers we have here,” Karen explains, adding that the largest project they worked on was part of a $2 million backyard makeover but most projects average between $60,000 to $100,000, with an average of $4,000 to $10,000 in outdoor kitchen appliances and cabinets. “We encountered some hesitancy during the government shutdown when people were uncertain about what would happen next, but we just ended up closing the deals as soon as everyone went back to work.” While currently their store isn’t a destination for retail buyers, that may be changing as Affordable Outdoor Kitchens works to expand its furniture line. Currently, contractors comprise 90% of their customer base and for that reason, they deliberately have a very limited retail presence. Contractors or landscape architects can come to them with a blueprint (or they can create one for them) and Affordable Outdoor Kitchens will provide everything to finish their project from the grill and heat to lights, furniture, cabinets, and rugs. “Contractors will bring customers into us, and they can pick out all they
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need in a couple of hours,” Karen says. However, they plan to start wooing retail customers in the near future. “We want the retail customers, but we don’t compete via outdoor kitchens. Most furniture sales are still add-on items to people building the kitchens,” Karen adds. Even with these expansion plans, Karen and Kevin are mindful of what they do best and don’t want to stray too far from their roots. “We can’t be everything to everybody. If there is an interesting outdoor product to come out, we’d consider bringing it in,” Karen says. In
fact, pool furniture may be their next new product line. Twenty-five percent of their contractors do pools and after querying them, it seems their built-in base is on board. “So, we’ll do it, but we will try to stay in our lane.” That’s something their buyers appreciate. “The contractor who gets help from us will buy from us for life,” Karen says. “We are passionate and enthusiastic about what we do. We are outdoor enthusiasts and to work with in this industry is a lot of fun. Yes, we sell fun and we love it!”
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Circle Reader Service No. 33
SHOWROOM SHOWCASE
BRICKSOVER CLICKS American Leisure’s inspiring retail space and personalized customer service cannot be replicated online. BY SHARON SANDERS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICK HUGHES
Brett Freiberg
I
t’s the little things that count. American Leisure Patio (Santa Cruz, California) has built its reputation on making sure every detail of its sales and service experience adds value. With the rise of online shopping, this savvy brick-andmortar specialty retailer makes a point to create moments that show people nothing can replace a face-to-face relationship. “Our customers know that they always have someone in their corner,” says Brett Freiberg, owner. In 1980, Brett’s parents, Fred and Kathi Freiberg, started the family business—a PVC furniture factory—in Santa Cruz after seeing PVC pipe furniture in Florida on a family vacation. After buying the rights for West Coast distribution, they named their new venture Pipe-Made Furniture West. The Freibergs opened their first retail outlet near the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in 1982 (during the height of the PVC pipe furniture craze) and a second location in Cupertino, California. The business grew exponentially over 30-plus years as it evolved with the patio furniture industry. Today, American Leisure Patio is a full-service outdoor living retailer with a loyal following. It has relocated both of its stores to larger, more visible locations in Santa Cruz and San Jose. The Freibergs have always had a knack for retail.
A focus on relationships gives American Leisure Patio an edge over online retail
“Specialty retail is about customer relationships, not selling, and that is how we approach every decision that we make,” Freiberg explains. The customer connection starts the moment someone walks into one of their stores. “We have created an ambiance with music, lighting and scented candles that instantly makes customers feel relaxed and their guard starts to come down.” Customers are greeted casually as if they are old friends. “In sales, you want people to be comfortable, so we never push, but rather guide them through the decision process.” The Santa Cruz location has a 3,000-square-foot backyard showroom with a large deck and pergola. “Our vision was to create a cozy outdoor area where people could sit on furniture like it was in their own
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backyard. We typically feature a collection of deep seating and dining together for the full experience.” Freiberg adds that it’s satisfying to see people relaxing on a sofa under the pergola laughing and talking. “That tells us that it’s working.” Product mix is another detail that matters to customers. The Freibergs are selective about the merchandise they bring in and the vendors they work with year after year. “Our demographic is 50-somethings who rely on us to do the legwork to find quality, stylish products so they don’t have to,” Freiberg says. “Special orders have become the staple of our business. People want instant gratification, so we lean toward manufacturers who are able to offer customization and short lead times. It can be a deal
breaker if a customer has to wait more than a few weeks to get their furniture.” The store carries a full lineup of trusted brands that includes Agio, Berlin Gardens, Brown Jordan, Galtech, Gloster, Gensun Casual Living, Grosfillex, Kettler, Kingsley Bate, OW Lee, Patio Renaissance, Solair, Sunset West, Telescope Casual, Treasure Garden, Tropitone and Woodard. “Our on-site warehouse isn’t as full as it used to be because we do so many special orders, but we still stock plenty of furniture for customers who want to buy something off the floor the same day for a party or event.” Freiberg adds that he tries to partner with manufacturers who care about customers as much as he does. “We expect them to do what’s neces-
Marble paired with aluminum brings a modern touch
Sectionals offer many seating options
A curated look puts design front and center
sary to make customers happy because it is a direct reflection on our service. If a chair breaks or an umbrella rips, they should send the customer a new one—not try to fix it. That is how I would want to be treated.” Freiberg and his mom, Kathi, work together as merchandise buyers. “We constantly analyze what is selling and what isn’t, so we know what to keep and when to move on.” The duo travels to the Las Vegas and Chicago markets every year, as well as overseas to find unique furniture and gifts. When they get back from their buying trips, the real work begins. “We lay everything out that we are considering in my office—on the desk, the floor and all over the walls—to make sure it works together. We are careful to bring in a com-
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SHOWROOM SHOWCASE bination of textures, colors and finishes make our showroom interesting and provide our customers with choices. It’s a process that we take seriously.” Both of the stores' showrooms are expertly merchandised to inspire customers. Freiberg explains that the curated look has emerged as a popular way to show furniture, which means pairing pieces together that aren’t necessarily meant to go together. “It gives an outdoor room an indoor designer feel. People aren’t interested in buying matching sets like they used to—they want to create a look with personality.” American Leisure Patio has a booming casual furniture restoration and repair business run by Brett’s dad, Fred. “We can make old furniture look like new again. There is no one else in the area that provides this service.” The store offers powder coating, re-strapping, weld repairs, as well as heater and umbrella repairs. They also do custom cushions and slings off site. “When someone brings in a piece of furniture, not only do we repair it, but we detail it, too, so it’s clean and ready to be put on their patio. We always go above and beyond to show that we care.” Customers who buy new patio furniture can take advantage of white glove delivery, setup and the store’s free haul-away service. “We pick up their existing furniture and dispose of it, so they don’t have to,” Freiberg says. “It seems like a minor thing, but our customers
Neutral furniture with a pop of color showcase a breezy sophistication
really appreciate it.” Freiberg is always trying to figure out ways to create a better customer experience. “It is who we are as a retailer, so it’s constantly on my mind.” He sees the company’s biggest challenge going forward to be how to capture the millennial market. “We know the way consumers buy is changing. Much of it is done online and on smart devices, which is the way of the future for millennials.” He feels that the specialty market might be an exception. “I personally would never buy any type of high-end furniture without sitting on it first. I believe that as long as
Circle Reader Service No. 36
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we can keep our prices competitive, offer personal service and back up our products, we might stand a chance.” He concludes: “Each year, we get better at what we do, and new ideas present themselves. It’s hard for online stores to communicate the customization and services that are available from our U.S. suppliers, so that’s where we come in. We are also available after the sale to help with any needs, wants or issues. It’s much harder for online stores to do that. The opportunity is always there—it’s up to us to figure out how to grab it.”
www.lesjardins.com
fr@lesjardins.com
Circle Reader Service No. 37
AS I SEE IT
Del Mar crescent sectional
CRAFTINGCOMFORT The ‘ahh’ factor takes center stage in Patio Renaissance’s cutting-edge designs.
Aspen dining
BY SHARON SANDERS
Patio Renaissance (Rancho Cucamonga, California) has an energy that’s inspiring. The company has created a niche for itself with its woven and aluminum furniture that is fresh, interesting and speaks to the needs of today’s generation of consumers. It maintains a close connection with its dealers, which sets it apart as a manufacturer that listens and puts cus tomers first. Patio & Hearth Products Report met with Mark Gorr, VP of North American operations, to take a closer look at what this company has up its sleeve for 2019 and beyond. How has the company made a name for itself in the casual furniture industry? Gorr: Patio Renaissance made its debut in 2004. It was founded by Albert Lord, whose factory is known in the industry for manufacturing OEM products for some of the biggest names in outdoor living. Lord’s years of experience inspired him to create the Patio Renaissance brand that has become renowned for its quality, value and extreme comfort. We are considered by many to be the kings of comfort when it comes to woven product. Our unique Sun Plush cushions are three layers thick with the perfect balance of plushness and firmness. The ahh factor of a Sun Plush cushion rivals the comfort of any piece of indoor furniture. What are some of the company’s recent successes? Gorr: We spent this last year setting up a new
110,000-square-foot factory in Vietnam that officially started shipping product in November. It is our way to stay one step ahead in the industry because it helps us avoid the tariffs that are impacting our Chinese factory. It gives us the ability to control the price of our products to our dealers. Our year over year sales have been steady every year since our entry into the market in 2004. This new factory will help us continue down that growth path. What does it take to be a leader in the industry? Gorr: As an importer, one has to be able to keep promises. One of the worst things that can happen to an import manufacturer is that the supply chain is broken, and shipments are delayed. We are respected in the industry as a company that consistently gets products to customers on time, as expected. The fact that we own our own factories in Vietnam and China makes it easy to control and manage our production scheduling effectively. We do specialty orders in our two distribution centers in Rancho Cucamonga, California, and Charlotte, North Carolina. On-time delivery is a
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must, so we are able to keep our com mitments to our special order customers. What emerging trends do you see in casual furniture? Gorr: We are in the field daily talking to dealers to find out what customers are asking for and what they are buying. Recently, aluminum furniture has been making a big comeback, as well as smaller scale furniture. I think the reason for this is that many millennials are living in homes with modest backyards or condos with balconies, so they’re looking for pieces that will bring their smaller spaces to life without feeling crowded. It’s amazing how any area can be transformed with the right furniture. Over the past few seasons, we have introduced aluminum collections that are hitting the mark, including Key Largo (our number one aluminum collection) and Mandalay (a classic collection that we modified with a deeper seat and raised back for more comfort). Last year, we introduced two new groups, Aspen and Seattle, that round out our aluminum offerings.
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AS I SEE IT What products are generating the most buzz for 2019? Gorr: Patio Renaissance’s etched aluminum, scratch resistant finishes are front and center right now. Their appeal is that they simulate the look and feel of real wood (teak and eucalyptus), but don’t require the maintenance. We offer two color options: a gray-tone driftwood (Salvaged Lumber) and a warm, dark oak (Reclaimed Barn Wood). The finishes are featured on our Tribeca, Seattle and Aspen furniture collections and on select table lines. Customers are also loving our new low profile, faux concrete firepits. They are scratch resistant and have the texture of real concrete, but without the weight, so they can easily be moved around an outdoor space. The firepits are available in a series of sizes from a 32” square to a 36x72” rectangle and 60” round. What Patio Renaissance products are consumer favorites? Gorr: We have several collections we consider to be our cornerstone offerings. The first is Catalina, which has a classic look that works in a variety of backyard environments. It was our number one selling woven group for forever until we introduced Monticello. Monticello’s appeal is that it has a high-end traditional look with a value price story, which is what we compete against in the marketplace. It features an intricate
braided and twisted weave that incorporates a variety of colors to add depth and richness. Del Mar is our top-selling modern collection that has become a favorite of millennials. It’s our entry-level price point in woven. The group blends well in both contemporary and transitional furniture. It is a broad line with seating, lounging and dining options, which makes it a great distribution tool for specialty retailers. K ey Largo is our number one selling aluminum line. It features a traditional, yet simple, profile with a nice rolled arm, and it is priced well. Our Seattle group is popular with customers who prefer a heavier frame with a wide arm, but who still want a design with clean, simple vibe. In your opinion, is outdoor living gaining steam or staying status quo? Gorr: Outdoor living is gaining momentum, which is evident in that more indoor furniture companies are introducing outdoor lines under their own brands— Ashley Furniture and the Bernhardt Furniture Company are perfect examples. It is a profitable move for them because they already have a built-in distribution channel with their retail stores. I see this as a positive for specialty retailers because it brings advertising dollars to the marketplace, which brings consumers out looking at the category. Specialty retailers just need to focus on staying relevant in their markets and promoting their personalized services.
What is the company doing to help make its dealers successful? Gorr: A showroom floor full of furniture can be overwhelming. Dealers need to be familiar with every product, so they know where to steer customers. With this in mind, Patio Renaissance has always made sales and product training a priority. Our reps are constantly in retail stores answering questions, conducting refresher courses and making sure everyone is up to date on the latest product features and benefits. We coach dealers on how to position themselves to sell against the big box stores by emphasizing quality and white glove service, not price. We also remind our dealers that it’s important to know what their com petition is doing so they know how to position their products with customers. What does the future hold for Patio Renaissance? Gorr: In order to grow, a company has to invest in the future and that is what Patio Renaissance is doing. The maneuvering we have made by opening up our Vietnam factory increases our ability to grow with the industry. Right now, we are able to make upwards of 800-1,000 additional containers a year in our new factory—in the next 5-6 years, we expect to triple that capacity as we expand its size to match that of our facility in China. Our future is bright.
Handcr afted in The Carolinas CONSTRUCTED OF RECYCLED PLASTIC MORTISE & TENON JOINERY 316 STAINLESS STEEL HARDWARE. MAINTENANCE FREE AND EASY TO CLEAN LIFETIME WARRANTY AGAINST CRACKING, SPLINTERING, & PEELING.
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Circle Reader Service No. 41
MY TURN
A LOYAL FOLLOWING Grilling die-hards are passionate about the ever-evolving Big Green Egg lineup. BY MAURA KELLER
E
stablishing a strong bond between manufacturers and dealers is a core tenet of many successful businesses within the patio and hearth industry. Since its founding, the team at Big Green Egg has taken pride in offering authorized Big Green Egg dealers an exceptional lifestyle brand that stands in a class of its own for quality, performance, retailer profits, and customer satisfaction. According to Ardy Arani, CEO of the Big Green Egg, the company’s line of EGGs, EGGcessories, and 100 percent natural lump charcoal generates more repeat customer traffic and offers higher margins and higher square foot sales than most other brands. “We recognize the value of a strong retail network, and the Big Green Egg as a company is unique,” Arani says. “Really, we are the only one in the category that stands committed to supporting our independe nt retailers without selling against them in mass retail, big box, clubs and other channels that compete against the independent ‘bricks and mortar’ retailer. Our authorized dealers realize and appreciate this.” In addition to the quality of an EGG, the company’s free lifetime warranty ensures that customers remain thrilled with their purchase for years to come. “Loyal customers are repeat customers,” Arani says. AT ITS CORE Big Green Egg is known for exceptional grilling products, including hundreds of EGGcessories that are designed for compatibility and superior results when used in an EGG, and they are only available at authorized dealers. “Our dealers tell us that we are ‘best in class’ with the support we provide them, both in-store as well as in the marketplace, and we are very proud of the robust dealer programs the company offers,” Arani says. “Our most successful EGG dealers are those who take full advantage of these programs.” This year, the company is emphasizing its Big Green Egg cooking demonstration strategy, which is a simple and inexpensive way to let customers experi-
A custom island from Big Green Egg
ence the EGG in action and fully appreciate the attributes that set an EGG apart. “When a prospect is researching a grill purchase, experiencing, seeing and tasting is believing,” Arani says. “Our Demo EGG program includes product support, training videos and downloadable ‘simple and easy’ recipe cards for the dealer.” In addition to these successful demonstrations, the company’s online dealer locator—with well over a million hits a year—drives consumers directly to Big Green Egg’s dealers. “Specialty retailers undoubtedly offer a better customer experience than big box or club stores because of product knowledge and consumer interaction,” Arani says. “I can’t tell you how many times a dealer has told me that they are so excited to be a part of the Big Green Egg family, and what a positive impact the EGG has on their business. Being passionate about the Big Green Egg makes it very easy for dealers to support the entire produc t line. We offer a comprehensive learning process that trains a dealer’s staff to become Certified EGGsperts, which leads to better product knowledge, consumer interaction and enhanced sales.” NEW INNOVATIONS The product development team at Big Green Egg has been innovating for over 40 years, and is busy year-round designing, prototyping and testing
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enhancements for the EGG, as well as creating new EGGcessorie s that make cooking even more enjoyable. As Arani explains, many of the core enhancements and innovations are implemented as ongoing production upgrades, without a lot of fanfare or publicity proclamations. “We don’t feel the need to crow about every single thing we do to make an EGG even better,” Arani says. “We have been doing it constantly since we created the category, and it is in our DNA to in novate and improve constantly.” For many backyard cooks, it’s all about ease of use, and the Big Green Egg fills that need perfectly. From high temperature “steak house” char grilling to baking the perfect pizza to smoking championship-level barbecue, the Big Green Egg is convenient, easy to use and maintenance-free as it gets. Continuing the legacy of innovation, Big Green Egg’s latest rollout of ne w products has been noted for groundbreaking features, and dealers have enthusiastically embraced them as value-added enhancements for Big Green Egg customers. Among them, the Big Green Egg “rEGGulator” vent cap provides precise temperature control that far surpasses other airflow controllers for accuracy and ease of use. Featuring an insulated adjustment tab for comfortable use, the newly patented rEGGula tor works with the optional cast iron rEGGulator rain cap for all-weather cooking. It
PRODUCT INNOVATION Lovinflame’s tabletop firepit
A vent-free fireplace from Lovinflame
FLAMESREDEFINED
Lovinflame’s innovative new technology is a game-changer for enjoying fire. BY CHERYL DANGEL BARTOLINI
First, there were pocket calculators, then pocket phones. Now, there’s pocket fire. Well, not really, but hold that thought. Technology took calculators and phones that had been tethered to electrical outlets and phone lines and made them mobile. Lovinflame has done the same thing for fire by creating a popular line of tabletop firepits, fireplaces, and candles that are safe, portable, and beautiful to behold. Lovinflame’s technology has redefined fire, making it safer and vividly brilliant, creating ambiance and peace of mind. The flames, at first glance, capture attention due to their rich orange hue, which is more vibrant than the color of regular fire. The wind-resistant and clean-burning features of Lovinflame’s firepits, fireplaces and candles allow them to be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors—in a living or dining room, porch or patio, and even the beach, woods, boat, or camper. Revolutionizing the flames was made possible due to the combination of a patented burning system that includes a proprietary stainless-steel wick, coupled with a non-toxic, water soluble fuel that is safe and environmentally friendly. This is due, in large part, because Lovinflame Fuel has a much higher flash point of 220 degrees Fahrenheit compared to ethanol or other commonly used bio fuels, which have flash points below 100 degrees. As a result, Lovinflame Fuel minimizes risks associated with fire such as flare-ups. If spilled, the flames will not spread with the spill and will remain contained to the wick. The flames are clean burning, odorless, and do not give off any smoke or soot while burning. Finally, because it is not a Department of Transportation (DOT) controlled material, there
are no restrictions on shipping and handling. The product is brand-new and revolutionary. In fact, the proprietary stainless-steel wick that makes this fire so ingenious was invented by a rocket scientist who spent 10 years developing this product before it launched in Europe in 2015 under the name TenderFlame. In May 2018, the product was introduced to the U.S. market as Lovinflame, a name born out of the vision to redefine fire, making it safe and beautiful for people to love. Headquartered in Ontario, California, Lovinflame shares space with its sister company and its North America distributor, Barbeques Galore. Allen Phan, Lovinflame’s business development manager for the U.S. and former regional manager at Barbeques Galore, notes that the response to the initial offering was overwhelming. “Everyone who sees the product is amazed by its technology,” he says. “We feel it is a game changer in home décor and home accent pieces.” Henrik Stepanyan, CEO of Barbeques Galore, adds, “When people see it, they always ask, ‘How does it do that?’ They can’t believe how different the fuel reacts compared to ethanol or bio fuels. There are no problems with spillage; there is no soot, no toxic materials and no risk of burning your home down by an accidental fuel spill.” The new team demonstrated the product for the first time last July in Las Vegas. “I was shocked when people actually pulled out their credit cards and asked when they can have it,” Stepanyan remembers. “We didn’t even have inventory then. That’s when I knew we hit on something.” Even without product, they managed to sign up 17 dealers around the U.S. in just three days. In
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November 2018, they began shipping inventory. Lovinflame’s smallest and most portable fire products are innovative ceramic home décor candles that are expected to replace traditional candles. These come in two sizes, classic and deluxe, and can double as emergency lighting. One liter of fuel can refill the largest candle three times. The smaller size can be refilled nine times from one liter of fuel and burns for three hours with each fill. They can be used indoors or outdoors and are wind resistant. “We’ve had a lot of interest from wedding and event planners who want mood lighting and like that we offer a product that has over 2,000 hours of burn time on a single wick, which is guaranteed to last five years,” Phan explains, citing that the only option had been tiki torches or candles that give off toxic fumes. Additional fuel can be purchased from local dealers as well as online from Houzz, Amazon, Barbeques Galore, and Lovinflame in one-liter bottles and soon, five-liter bottles will be available as well, which can be shipped easily via UPS, FedEx, or any shipping platform. Lovinflame’s most popular category is its tabletop firepits, which allow you to place fire, heat, and light anywhere you want. They are equipped with a 12,000 BTU burner, stainless steel construction on the fuel tank and two different cover options, matte black or Samantha Blue granite. Its tank holds two liters of fuel and has a burn time of four hours. The unit retails for $299. They can also be used to burn indoors or outside, allowing it to be taken from the dining room table to the patio or to the beach or campfire. Finally, there are vent-free fireplaces that have
the same specs for the burner and tank except that they are encased in a fireplace enclosure with glass panels to reflect the heat and allow viewing the flame from all angles. It comes in one size and is priced at $599 for the matte black model. “This product opens up the market to homeowners as well as renters who want the option of having a fireplace in their home. You also have businesses who want a fire feature in their lobby or entryway without having to run gas lines,” Phan explains. More products are nearing introduction. “Our product development team is amazing, and they are always working on new ideas,” Stepanyan says. Soon to be released are pedestal candles in two sizes as well as a new line of Mist glass candles in two shapes. “We are always getting feedback, so we develop what the market is asking for.” Another product in development would give the candles a scent. Currently, essential oils cannot be added to the fuel, but they are working on an attachment that will release scent when the candle is burning. So far, designing innovative products has been the easy part. The biggest challenge has been fire safety and consumer education. “The National Fire Protection Association reports that 2 percent of all home fires are
differs. That’s why you will see videos on the company’s website (www.lovinflame.com) and on YouTube that demonstrate how Lovinflame’s the product works and how safe it is; ceramic videos are the second best thing to seeing candles the product actually demonstrated in person. A secondary challenge is designing products for the home décor and interior design market where trends are fleeting and at the very least, are always evolving. “As a result, you’re always changing, so we spend a lot of time at the shows gathering market feedback so that we can design something that will have longevity,” due to candles. We have a better alternative to using a Stepanyan explains. product that can burn your home down,” Phan says. They don’t consider any of these challenges to be Stepanyan adds, “Most people are only familiar with overwhelming, however. In fact, the team is so confiethanol fuel and their first reaction is to back up and dent in the product that they know exactly where they step away from it. They have heard the horror stories want to be in five years. “We expect Lovinflame to be a but once they see how different our fuel is, they realize household name,” Phan states. “Everyone will know they don’t have to worry. Unfortunately, the product the name and will have one in their home.” Stepanyan knowledge isn’t there yet.” agrees: “Three years after it launched in Europe, a Lovinflame is tackling that challenge head-on. paper in Norway surveyed the top requested items people wanted for Christmas. TenderFlame was on the list Explaining the differences between their product and traditional fuel-based products can be hard to put into at number six.” The team at Lovinflame expects the North American market to react the same way. words, so the company prefers to show how its product
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CORPORATE PROFILE
MOVING OVING FORWARD
A new building, upcoming products, and advanced dealer support programs propel Windward Design Group toward the future. BY KIMBERLY RODGERS
Belize wicker collection
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t’s been an exciting, busy, and productive period for Florida-based Windward Design Group. The noted high-end casual furniture manufacturer went through its largest factory move in company history in 2018— consolidating operations from seven buildings and 140,000 square feet of space to one location in approximately 280,000 square feet. The move makes the 2019-20 season the first one in which Windward is operating all under one roof. “We are very excited to be underway in this new season with the move complete,” says Carrie Morales, executive vice president. The company’s various functions and employees are already experiencing the positive effects of the move. “The manufacturing efficiencies that have been found and the synergy between our staff working all together under one roof are amazing,” Morales says. The new building, located 1.5 miles from Windward’s former location in Sarasota, has already made it possible for the company to not only save costs on labor and inventory, but to also create a more productive environment for staff. “Despite all the headaches and hard work, this is a very nostalgic time to be a part of the WDG team,” she
says. “We’re seeing a spring in the step of our employees and ourselves.” A new location is not the only buzz around Windward. The company is looking forward to some new introductions at Casual Market this year, which will focus on accessorial items, as well as pieces using mixed media. In the current season, many of Windward’s new offerings have been well received by the marketplace. Phoenix, a sling collection, has already surpassed expectations. Other breakouts include the Belize, a deep seating wicker collection; high dining; and slat top dining tables in Marine Grade Polymer (MGP) offered in a range of sizes with seating up to 12 people. Although some retailers are reporting a decrease in interest for dining groups and a trend toward deep seating among their customers, the demand for dining remains strong for Windward. Florida and the southern United States are the company’s dominant market, Morales notes. “These areas have many different outdoor seating areas that can accommodate both dining and deep seating, so the two categories really go hand in hand.” Furthermore, outdoor areas in this market are also being built larger, so
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Phoenix sling collection
the end user is requesting bigger pieces of patio furniture to fill the space. She notes that today in new construction, many builders are starting the design process from the outside in and creating large outdoor rooms—even for homes with smaller interior square footage. “It’s all about creating a lifestyle,” Morales says. Windward Design Group was founded by David Peace, president and owner. The company’s origins began (in the early 1990s) under the name Royal Patio Manufacturing, which provided a service to re-strap furniture
for condominiums and hotels along Florida’s west coast. Peace grew the business to manufacture raw frames and other components for finishers and eventually expanded to manufacture complete strap furniture. In 1997, Windward Design Group expanded into sling and cushion products, and by 2011, wicker and marine grade polymer were in production. In late 2019, the company will launch yet another new material. Windward’s roots in commercial manufacturing remain evident in the exceptional standards it builds into all
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CORPORATE PROFILE products for both the residential and commercial markets. This includes furniture made with commercial-grade aluminum, reinforcing ribs to provide additional strength, quality stainless steel hardware, and fine powder-coated frames. “We have always been and will remain very quality conscious for all our customers,” Morales says. With the exception of woven products, which are manufactured overseas, all other Windward products are made in the U.S. at the company’s factory in Sarasota. “For our collections produced here, this gives us absolute control not only over manufacturing, but also over all the materials we use,” Morales says. “We don’t have to be concerned about the quality of components such as the grade of stainless or hardware.” This also eases the minds of the company’s retail partners. “They have come to know us and can depend on us for providing them quality products.” In general, buyers are becoming more aware and demanding of the quality and purity of products they use, from the foods they eat to the personal care prod-
ucts they use on their skin. Homes are being constructed with air purification systems and with non-toxic, eco-friendly building products. However, this mindset does not always translate to the products consumers bring to the outside of their homes. “Our dealers understand where our products come from and are doing a great job of communicating that to their customers,” Morales says. CREATING AN EXPERIENCE Today’s consumers are increasingly using different social media platforms to search out the latest in design and decor products to purchase for the home. Furthermore, builders and architects now regularly encourage clients to make an inspiration wish list on Pinterest or Houzz. Morales says shoppers are doing a good job of using social media as a tool to curate their own unique, individual space. “Whether it is outside or inside the home, people no longer want a cookie-cutter room.” A thriving specialty retailer is one who takes this concept of individualism into the store level by creating a unique envi-
ronment for the buyer. “These retailers are not just bringing in all matching pieces but creating an experience and a feel to emotionally tie the buyer to the product,” Morales says. “This makes all the difference in the world.” Replicating this unique experience on the store’s website further connects to the customer. In addition, in an ever-increasing world of e-commerce, retailers can gain an advantage by getting on board with a “click to brick” business model (even those who don’t sell online). “You want to pull buyers into the store level from their phone,” Morales adds. At the manufacturing level, Windward is doing its part to make this happen by providing inviting, beautiful images on social media, including idea boards on Pinterest. Morales notes that today’s buyers are extremely vocal about what they want. Many know immediately when they walk into a store what look and feel they want. However, she adds, “This does not remove the necessity of trusted retail partners to educate the buyers further on the good, bad, and the ugly of choosing products
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based on a picture and online reviews.” The company is looking forward to hosting dealers and distributors at its annual open house this year in August. The gathering, which the company now calls its Showcase Event, will highlight not only new products, but will also introduce recently developed programs and incentives. “We also have some exciting new software that will be available, free of charge, for all our dealers as a floor sales tool with pricing, pictures, and item details that will all be available at the touch of a tablet or phone,” Morales says. “This will be a game changer for our dealers in 2019 and 2020.” Peace is very active in the business and Morales, his daughter, speaks with great pride of her father. Since many of the company’s retailers are also family owned and operated, she says this provides a direct connection to Windward and its own family story. “We understand some of the hurdles they have gone through but also know how rewarding it is to work with family and accomplish something side by side with those you love the most.”
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INSIGHT HEARTH PRODUCTS CONTROLS
Igniting the Industry HPC’s new Electronic Ignition series offers full control through a smartphone app
HPC takes a leadership role by setting safety standards and creating products that resonate with consumers. BY CHERISE FORNO
Hearth Products Controls (Dayton, Ohio) brings more than four decades of experience to the hearth industry as it continues to pave the way for innovation with its outdoor firepits, fire rings, fire-on-water features, replacement parts, and accessories. After getting its start as a division of The Maddox Company in 1975, HPC became its own corporation in 2001 and has wasted no time becoming an industry leader with the release of its Outdoor Fire Products line in 2003. Sean Steimle, HPC COO, explains that the HPC division started as a distributor and manufacturer of replacement parts for gas logs and fireplaces, which it still excels in today because dealers look to them to supply reliable parts for safe, trusted maintenance. “We are still doing this business today,” Steimle says. “When the warranty runs out on different products, dealers call us.” As HPC expanded into the firepit marketplace, it soon noticed that it was relatively easy for companies to make firepits without many
The company ddecided li Th id d iit wantedd to guidelines. set safety standards for the industry to improve the quality of the products. It also makes quality control a priority by manufacturing its entire product line at its facilities in Dayton. “We worked really hard with CSA to develop a safety standard for the entire industry,” Steimle says. “HPC really set the safety standards.” Since the beginning, HPC has strived to deliver creative, high-quality products that enhance the life of its customers by being convenient, safe, and beautiful. “We’ve been expanding to improve areas of the end-user experience–making the products better looking, easier to operate, and more durable, which is especially important with outdoor products,” Steimle says. In 2010, HPC became the first company to develop a high-end electronic ignition firepit. HPC remained at the forefront of technological advancement this past year by being the first to release a Bluetooth electronic ignition firepit that can be fully operated with a smartphone. “This was another step in innovation,” says Jason Perry, national sales manager. “We’re
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ffinding fi di the h Bl h electronic l i iignition i i fi ffirepit i Bluetooth to be very popular. It is new, so it is still growing in popularity. It’s very on-trend with how people want to operate their products.” Steimle adds that making products easy to use and technologically advanced ties into the overall vision of the company to provide an overall experience that improves someone’s outdoor space as well as their home life. “HPC is a lifestyle,” he adds. One of HPC’s flagship products that provides this lifestyle is the company’s exclusive Penta Burner series with a variety of options available. This 304 stainless steel burner creates a unique flame while burning less gas. HPC’s patented design uses burner holes drilled at 9, 12 and 3 o’clock positions that create a one-ofa-kind flame. “This is our most popular product,” Perry says. “It sets the standard in the industry for durability and the visible flame. It looks the most like a campfire.” The company offers optimal customer service and support for its dealers with helpful tools such as a firepit glass calculator and a firepit finder on its website (www.hpcfire.com). Its
The HPC Evolution 360 fire and water feature
HPC Phoenix Copper Bowls with H-Burner firepit inserts
vast firepit line offers a wide range of available features and operating systems from match-lit systems and push-button fire kits to products with Bluetooth capabilities. Therefore, the finder can be very useful in navigating HPC’s product line. “We have a firepit selector on our website to help people select the right burner and control for their needs,” Perry says. HPC is working on expanding its already extensive training for its dealer network, which includes 1,400 distribu-
tors and retailers throughout North America. Steimle notes that HPC is committed to investing in its dealers to take its customer service to the next level. “We’re looking at adding resources for enhancing our training module to improve the experience of our customers,” Steimle says. “The more we can train our dealers, the better they can relate products to customers.” HPC continues to lead the way with its Fire on Water features line, which includes its Evolution 360 Fire & Water
that expertly combines the tranquility of a water feature with the vibrancy of flames. Hidden blue LED lights illuminate running water, while a fire adds ambiance to the eye-catching product that can enhance any outdoor space. It arrives fully assembled, ready to be installed, and is easy to operate. Customers can personalize the look by enclosing it with materials such as stone or stucco. The company is determined to find new ways to be pioneers in the industry. “We’re continually pushing the
technology of our products,” Perry says. “We’re working on what the next thing will be.” Perry adds that remaining at the forefront of the industry is a goal of HPC as it constantly searches to create the next breakthrough product that delivers what its customers want and need. “We want to continue to expand on home automation in our products,” Perry says. “Our goal is to continue to make innovative products to stay ahead of the market. A lot of exciting things are ahead.”
THE JETT HAS LANDED
Preview Market Chicago Showroom#1574 www.jensenleisurefurniture.com Circle Reader Service No. 51
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INSIGHT ONWARD MANUFACTURING
Ready,Set…Grill! Barbecue aficionados are attracted to Onward Manufacturing’s diverse lineup of high-performance grills. BY CHERISE FORNO
Broil King grills are known for their versatility, making it possible to cook almost anything
Built on more than a century of manufacturing experience, Onward Manufacturing Company (Waterloo, Ontario, Canada) continues to pave its way in the barbecue industry by selling its flagship Broil King brand to approximately 30 countries. The third-generation members of the Witzel family have taken the family-owned and -operated business forward since its inception in 1906, continuing to focus on its strengths in the outdoor industry. “Since 1984, Onward has only been involved in manufacturing barbecues and the distribution and sale of barbecue accessories,” says Ted Mealing, vice president of marketing. Even as Onward Manufacturing narrowed its focus, the company has experienced sustained growth and success carrying high-quality brands, including Sterling, Grill
The newly refined Broil King Imperial grill
Pro, Huntington, Broil-Mate, and Broil King Keg. The company has factories strategically positioned in Canada and the United States to serve customers in North America and beyond. “The company has grown to the point where
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we now have three factories that are completely vertically integrated–one located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada; a second one located in Huntington, Indiana; and the third located in Dickson, Tennessee,” Mealing says.
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INSIGHT ONWARD MANUFACTURING
The full range of Broil King gas grills is made in North America
Broil King remains the most prominent brand produced by OMC and continues to boast its signature searing ability. “Staying true to the Broil King brand, one significant difference with other pellet grills is our pellet grill can sear the perfect steak,” Mealing says. “Our design and features really set the Broil King pellet smoker apart from any competitive models.” The company recently developed a new Broil King pellet grill series with four models available. The new series features a Pro Digital Control Display that is both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enabled, so it can easily be connected to an app from the company. This provides customers the ability to easily operate the product. There are three quick settings buttons—smoke at 225 degrees, roast at 350 degrees, and a grill/sear
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setting programmed for 600 degrees—designed for convenience and for beginners. Experienced cooks also have the flexibility to select temperatures to achieve their desired results with a variety of food. The Broil King pellet grill includes a rotisserie kit, two meat probes, and many other features that make it stand out from the competition. “For the expert, you can easily control temperature and settings for any type of pellet grilling you can imagine,” Mealing says. OMC also offers a gas grill range with three, four, five, or six-burner grills to provide a wide variety of options for OMC’s diverse consumers. Mealing notes that each product offered by OMC gives customers a high-quality grill that delivers unparalleled searing power with excellent performance, heat control, and versatility. “All of our gas grills share essentially the same grilling/coo king system designed to deliver great barbecue flavor and grilling performance,” he says. “All Broil King grills offer virtually a 100 percent sear zone. The grilling system is designed to give you the ability to cook almost anything on your grill in any style you desire. That’s what makes Broil King unique and appealing—performance grilling throughout the whole range.” Mealing explains that as grills c ontinue to become more popular throughout North America, people develop higher expectations for their products and many more now own more than one type of grill. “More and more consumers are becoming ‘grilling enthusiasts’ and, as such, are looking for a grill that can do more and complement their grilling imagination,” he says. “We also see a strong interest in pellet grills and in the ‘smoke’ category.” OMC distributes numerous grills and accessories from well-respected brands to multiple countries to meet the growing demand for high-quality products to improve customers’ outdoor cooking experience and lifestyle. As the category grows in popularity in Canada and the United States, Onward Manufacturing stands apart from the competition in several ways with its programs and support for retail partners to its meticulous and high-end designing, engineering, and manufacturing standards for its performance grills. “Broil King is, I believe, the only brand where the full range of gas grills are made in North America,” Mealing says. “Our focus on delivering a great grilling experience sets us apart.” As OMC looks to the future, it will pull from its long manufacturing history and decades in the barbecue industry to deliver innovative grills that provide its customers with the best-tasting, most convenient grilling experience available on the marketplace. “We will continue to focus on delivering a great grilling experience,” Mealing says. “We strive to continue to meet or exceed our customers’ grilling demands and enable and grow a community of grilling enthusiasts who demand performance, versatility, and a grill that complements their grilling imagination.”
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PERSPECTIVE
SOMETHING SPECIAL Ironhaus pairs old-school design with modern efficiency. BY GREG THOMPSON
An Ironhaus handcrafted door with a Mediterranean design
T
he meticulously crafted fireplace doors created at Ironhaus (Hamilton, Montana) tend to inspire a feeling of warmth, even permanence, in potential customers. The artisanal ironwork design has an unmistakable authenticity that reflects the philosophy of founder Tim Campbell. Considering that Campbell spent much of his youth in a welding blacksmith shop, the aesthetic is a natural outgrowth of hard-won experience. “I'm a finishes guy and a tactile person, and big into design,” he says. “Everything is built well and is designed to last forever.” Blacksmithing terms such as swaging, punching, and forge welding may be obscure to most, but Campbell knows the words like he knows the varying hues of super-heated iron. Spending countless hours in the shop honed his technique and gave Campbell a sense of the authentic design that people crave. After working through the 1980s and early 1990s building fireplaces and stoves, often with his father who was a well-known fireplace designer, Campbell eventually built Ironhaus (Ironhaus.com) from scratch in 1993, blacksmithing from his garage in Hamilton, Montana (2,000 population at the time). These days, his 50-person team includes highly skilled artisans who combine old-world metalworking techniques with innovative design and state-of-the-art production processes to create custom fireplaces, fireplace doors, screens, mantels, surrounds, range hoods, firepits, and other handcrafted accessories. As a designer of “specialty metalwork for the home,” Campbell balks at the “manufacturer” label. Instead, he calls workers at the now 50,000-squarefoot site in Big Sky Country “craftsmen,” and definitely not production people. “We're really into
Portland Willamette Revelation door
Tim Campbell
An Ironhaus craftsman studding a surface
details,” says Campbell, who is also general manager and CEO of the company. “A lot of our finishes are hand applied and hand done. It's difficult and hard to copy, but a lot of people try to copy it.” Experienced blacksmiths can tell the difference between a made-in-Montana Ironhaus flagship product and a production-made knockoff, and fortunately so can discerning customers. Part of that advantage is due to Ironhaus’ considerable head start on the wrought iron look, doing it years before its competitors. “It's taken about a decade for some of these guys to get close to what we're doing,” Campbell says.
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“They are still not doing what we do. Most of the time, they're doing a single thing—just one product and stopping there.” Ironhaus products are customizable to the tune of 100 different variations, and virtually unlimited in what can be done from a craftsman standpoint. Campbell says the difference is the close on-site control: “When you have your own plating plant like we do, sometimes we will plate something 10 times because we're not happy with it the first nine times. When you have somebody else plating for you, they're not willing to do that because it costs money to do that. We want our finishes to really stand out. Our reps and dealers can tell the difference between our plated finishes compared to the competition. Not all people look at those details as closely, but people who do notice it big time.” According to Campbell, Ironhaus still has the only pocket door (rustic or contemporary) in the industry. “I'm surprised it hasn't been copied yet, but it's complicated, and it takes time to learn something complicated,” he says. “We've been doing it for years, and I don't think our competitors had a trip hammer in their facility until maybe 10 years ago. They didn't even know what a trip hammer was. Those are things you grow up with in a shop.” Campbell concedes that competitors do have comparable mantels and hoods, but “the difference is we're innovating with our finishes and a lot of our product lines are just different than anybody continued on page 84
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LAST WORD
Monterey fiberglass market umbrella with crank auto tilt (9-foot octagon) Aurora cantilever umbrella (11-foot octagon)
SUNSTOPPERS St Strong and d stylish, t li h th these d designs i ffrom F Frankford k d kf Umbrellas provide exceptional shade for every space. BY M A U R A K E L L E R
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hen it comes to outdoor furnishings, an umbrella is the perfect finishing touch to any seating or dining arrangement. Frankford Umbrellas, the leading manufacturer of premium umbrellas for commercial and residential use, has more than 120 years of experience designing incomparable shade products. “We are a dynamic and thriving company in the outdoor living industry, spe cializing in traditional and modern shade solution designs,” says Laura Dudley, national sales manager. “We are well known in the contract world, and bring the same superior quality and expertise to the retail world.” As Dudley explains, “Frankford Umbrellas has evolved over the years, from a local company in Philadelphia originally known for manufacturing quality umbrellas for East Coast beaches, to a comp any that provides a wide range of shade products for any environment.” These products include resort-quality patio, market, and cantilever umbrellas as well as a collection of giant market umbrellas, which are new for 2019, providing maximum shade on a traditional center post. “In the company’s early stages, we repaired umbrellas, which gave
us fantastic firsthand knowledge of all the little things that cou ld go wrong on an umbrella—and what we needed to do to create a superior product that would withstand the harshest conditions,” Dudley says. Offering superior commercialgrade products meant that, until a few years ago, Frankford’s sole target was contract end users (i.e. community pools, hotels, beach concessionaires, etc.). As consumers embrace outdoor living, they desire their outdoor space to refl ect the elegance of their interior home design. Frankford recognized the need for high-quality umbrellas at a reasonable price in the retail world. This became evident after the company’s successful first showcase at the 2017 Casual Market in Chicago. “Retailers were quick to come on board, which told us there was an obvious hole in the market that needed to be filled,” Dudley says. “Our umbrellas are now av ailable at over 175 high-end retailers, with over 260 locations.” Frankford’s transition into retail stores has provided resellers an opportunity to offer designer-quality umbrellas. This exceptional quality allows retailers to exude confidence to their
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customers that they are purchasing an umbrella that will last for years, rather than fall apart in a year or two. This focus on craftsmanship and durability means that Frankford Umbrellas can offer an exceptional warranty program, which in many cases is more than double or triple that of the competition. “We do not build umbrellas for obsolescence,” Dudley says. “We build them to last 10+ years.” The company focuses on providing retail, commercial, and residential partners with an exceptional product, at a reasonable price, with superior customer service. “Our clients appreciate our personal touch and top-notch quality,” Dudley says. “They love having a unique product that cannot be matched by their competitors or the ‘big box’ stores. They take pride in being able to offer a product that truly complements their high-end outdoor living sets.” Selling umbrellas should not be difficult, and Frankford strives to make the process as easy as possible for retai lers. Dudley explains, “Our ultimate goal is to exceed our clients’ expectations and help their companies grow and continue to provide the high level of service and premium quality products their cus-
tomers are used to.” LEADING-EDGE PRODUCTS Frankford Umbrellas provide a wealth of umbrella designs to meet the needs of commercial and residential consumers. Through working with the company’s specialty retailers and expert manufacturer sales representatives, the company has learned how to help retailers succeed. “One of the beautiful aspects of a retailer working with Frankford’s umbrella program is that, should they need to, they can maintain a small inventory and place orders weekly to fulfill their needs, rather than requiring a large upfront cash expenditure and large space allocated for inventory. This differs from other umbrella manufacturers, who require retailers to place a large minimum order, and/or who charge higher costs for those retailers who do not purchase the minimum quantity required,” Dudley explains. “Committing to a large inventory not only eats into their finances and warehouse or showroom space, but also means they are inevitably left with inventory at the end of the season.” “Most importantly, providing consumers with a high-quality continued on page 84
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what’s new 6 Hot prodUCts to sell noW
innoVatiVe HeartH prodUCts As elegant as it is efficient, the Grandview 230 wood stove has raised the standard for home heating with proven, Thermal Fin Technology (TFT). This innovative cast-iron heat exchanger delivers the perfect amount of heat to the home. A wide array of high-quality, versatile styling options means that the Grandview 230 stove will easily complement any décor. Contact: sales.info@ihp.us.com or www.ironstrike.us.com. Circle reader service no. 95
dansons
Valor FireplaCes
The LGK24 from Louisiana Grills provides cooking versatility, classic charcoal flavor, and unrivaled dependability. Perfect for large groups or entertaining, the LGK24 boasts 662 square inches of two-tiered, stainless steel cooking surface. The heavy-duty ceramic exterior is finished with a high temperature glossy black coating and stainless steel trim. The Louisiana Grills ceramic series comes complete with fold down bamboo shelves and heavy-duty swivel casters, as well as adjustable top and bottom dampers for superior temperature control. Contact: (877) 303-3134 or www.louisiana-grills.com.
The all-new H3 gas fireplace is an addition to the Horizon product family. The H3 offers a slim engine design that’s engineered for new construction installs, or the growing trend to remove and replace outdated, inefficient wood and gas fireplaces. A relaxing, radiant fire within the firebox will create a beautiful ambiance in any living space. With three unique fuel beds, seven liners, and four fronts, the H3 can accommodate any design style while providing efficient, radiant warmth. Contact: (800) 468-2567 or www.valorfireplaces.com. Circle reader service no. 97
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FrankFord Umbrellas oW lee The Forma firepit from OW Lee features a sleek modern design that is the perfect complement to sectional seating. New for 2020 is a longer 25x65-inch rectangle, available in 13 beautiful frame finishes. Contact: (800) 776-9533 or www.owlee.com.
Maximize your space without a traditional center post with the Aurora cantilever umbrella from Frankford Umbrellas. It’s manufactured using the most durable materials and fabric available to provide many years of trouble-free use and enjoyment. Its Infinity Tilt allows you to change tilt positions effortlessly. This lovely and modern cantilever is suitable for use in low to moderate wind conditions and ensures hours of protection from the sun and light rain. Contact: (856) 222-4134 or www.frankfordumbrellas.com.
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klaUssner oUtdoor The Delray collection is a classic contemporary group made of unique synthetic material, RealisTEAK, which offers the appearance of natural teak wood. Withstanding the elements to maintain its original look and color, the slightly graying Dune finish adds a touch of aging teak character over teak undertones to create a look of refined enduring beauty. Virtually maintenance free, the stylish and sturdy Delray collection will be enjoyed by family and friends for many years to come. Contact: (336) 625-6174 or www.klaussneroutdoor.com. Circle reader service no. 100
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PRODUCT PROFILES AEI/GEnsun OutdOOr KItchEn AEI Corporation (Irvine, California) and Gensun (Rancho Cucamonga, California) are introducing the PGS Legacy/ Gensun quick ship grill/ island program. The PGS Legacy Newport (30-inch) and Pacifica (39-inch) grills are beautifully integrated into the all-aluminum Gensun designer islands with durable all cast aluminum tops. PGS grills feature the exclusive PGS Fuel Stop (patent pending) one-hour gas shut-off/timer. Contact: (949) 474-3070 or www.aeicorporation.com.
MEndOtA LAndscApE FuLLVIEw 36 GAs FIrEpLAcE Simple yet distinctive, traditional yet versatile—the Mendota Full View 36 gas fireplace brings home a classic landscape shape for a hearth that stands out. The companion to the FullView 42, the 36 delivers the same realistic flames you expect from Mendota with dimensions that accommodate even more rooms. And with nothing between your customers and their fireplace, they have a more direct view of the fire while staying true to their own unique aesthetic. Contact: (800) 553-5422 or www.mendotahearth.com.
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AprIcIty MAsOn dEEp sEAtInG Outdoor entertaining continues to grow among today’s savvy consumers. Apricity Mason deep seating collection delivers with clean lines, a modern edge and trendsetting color palette. There’s no limit to what your customers can create, and no space is off limits. Apricity Outdoor delivers the collections and the opportunity to add new flair, versatile pieces, all in styles that are sure to be hot-ticket items on your showroom floor. Contact: (888) 997-7623 or www.apricityoutdoor.com. circle reader service no. 105
Judd cOLLEctIOn The Judd collection is where innovation meets functionality. Finally, an outdoor seating group that provides in-season weather protection from all elements for seat and back cushions. Top and bottom panels seamlessly open to reveal storage lined with water-resistant rain fabric, making cushion storage a breeze. Contact: (888) 462-6852 or www.plankandhide.com. circle reader service no. 102
BrIsA OrIGInAL OutdOOr Boundary-pushing performance, inside or out, is the highlight of Brisa Original Outdoor. Providing the ultimate in seating comfort and softness, Original Outdoor features a subtly textured aesthetic and a well-balanced color palette. This pioneering fabric offers water repellency, EPA-registered mildew defense, solar endurance and climate control technology that shields against temperature changes. Contact: (914) 460-1730 or www.ultrafabricsinc.com. circle reader service no. 106
chAIsE LOunGEr wIth hIddEn whEELs (L38) Whether lakeside, oceanside, or in your own backyard, C.R. Plastics’ chaise lounger provides an escape from the stress of everyday life, close to home. The strength and weight of the plastic ensures it will outlast the elements year-round! Contact (800) 490-1283 or www.crpproducts.com. circle reader service no. 103
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T H E E X PA N D E D 2 0 1 9 Q U I C K S H I P P R O G R A M F E AT U R I N G H A M P T O N C H AT A N D M A N O R C H AT 21 collections ship in 3 business days All special order Quick Ship cushioned products ship in 5 business days Dealer benefits | No inventory or warehouse expense | Maximizes turns on Winston floor placements
Winston Furniture Company Haleyville, Alabama (205) 486-9211 circle reader service no. 63
www.winstonfurniture.com
PRODUCT PROFILES
cOuntry LAnE’s rEctAnGLE VInyL GAzEBO Maximize and transform any yard into a luxurious retreat with a gazebo from Country Lane Gazebos. Whether you’re creating a community space or a private niche in the backyard, a rectangle vinyl gazebo is the perfect structure to complete the design. Rectangle vinyl gazebos are both versatile in any space while adding practical shade to the backyard. Make the most of any backyard with a rectangle vinyl gazebo. Contact: (866) 885-7847 or www.gazebo.com. circle reader service no. 107
MAGnuM 48 Arch KIt
BOArdwALK dEEp sEAtInG
Earthcore has taken Isokern Fireplace customization one step further with the introduction of the Magnum 48 Arch Kit. This kit includes the front arch with two custom cut sidewalls for ease of installation. By simply removing the fourth course of sidewalls and putting the arch kit in, you now have an arch ready for its masonry veneer. This will enhance the look of any indoor or outdoor fireplace with ease. Elevate your space in time for summer. Contact: (800) 642-2920 or www.earthcore.co. circle reader service no. 108
Evoking the spirit of a relaxed walk along a sandy beach watching the sunset on a warm Summer’s evening, the CabanaCoast Boardwalk deep seating chair captures a sense of ease and relaxation. The modern-retro styling of the powder-coated aluminum frame and new Patina hand-brushed charcoal gray finish allow this new collection to walk between both worlds. Distinguished by a generously sized frame and inclined back, Boardwalk encourages lingering and long chats with friends and family. Available in deep seating, sectional, lounge and a variety of dining height options with a coordinating table collection, Boardwalk is designed for lasting outdoor living. Contact: (855) 502-9988 or www.cabanacoast.com. circle reader service no. 109
rushMOrE 50 FIrEpLAcE Let the envy begin with the Rushmore 50 fireplace. The Rushmore 50 features a dual burner that creates a tall lively fire, accented with the massive Forest Timber log set and large glowing ember bed. TruFlame Technology minimizes emissions while maximizing heat efficiency to produce the most realistic flames. The impressive ceramic glass front with InvisiMesh provides a 50-inch viewing area. Available through White Mountain Hearth dealers. Contact: (800) 851-3153 or www.whitemountainhearth.com. circle reader service no. 110
EAGLE rIVEr 40-Inch FIrEpIt EGG GEnIus IntErActIVE tEMpErAturE cOntrOLLEr The EGG Genius effortlessly controls the temperature of your EGG through your smartphone, tablet or computer. Remotely manage and monitor cooking and food temperatures for worry-free cooking, view graphs of your cooks … and even receive alerts when your cook is finished or when the EGG temperature is too high or low. Contact: (770) 938-9394 or www.biggreenegg.com. circle reader service no. 111
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The Eagle River 40-inch firepit is skillfully crafted using a steel structure surrounded by Veranda Classics’ proprietary TerraFab material—providing an authentic wood look to complement any outdoor décor. Through VerandaClassics’ unique construction process, Eagle River is able to mimic the appearance of a log hewn directly from a large tree. Contact: (973) 428-0400 or www.verandaclassics.com. circle reader service no. 112
LOVInFLAME MIst cAndLE Lovinflame’s Mist glass candle encompasses aesthetics and safety, while producing clean-burning flames for cozy indoor or breezy outdoor settings. The technology behind the flames is powered by a proprietary stainless-steel wick and a non-flammable, water-soluble, and non-toxic fuel. With a wick burn time of more than 2,000 hours, the candle can be used for years to come, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional wax candles. Contact: (800) 474-5587 or www.lovinflame.com. circle reader service no. 113
GEnsun’s prIVAcy scrEEns Each panel of Gensun’s Privacy Screens can be tilted to allow light in while still providing privacy and blocking unwanted sight lines. Choose 1-2 fabrics for your 3- Panel or 4-Panel Screen to add style and privacy to your outdoor space. Contact: (866) 964-4468 or www.gensuncasual.com. circle reader service no. 114
dEcOrAtIVE pILLOws Boring is banned when you add luxury and pizazz to outdoor décor. Paradise Cushions offers a wide array of customized, decorative pillows with multiple fabrics laid out in geometric patterns and color-coordinated details such as rope, fringe, cording and other trims. The most popular throw pillow size is 17x17-inch square but other sizes and shapes are available, including 16inch diameter round pillows with pleating, triangular pillows with cording, lumbar pillows and bolsters. All pillows are made of furniture-grade acrylic fabrics. Contact: (866) 667-8668 or www.paradisecushions.com. circle reader service no. 115
Where year-round comfort meets seamless style. When you specify Infratech heaters, you can enjoy 100 more nights year-round of versatile style and eco-friendly comfort in your outdoor living space. Our wide array of products includes new Contemporary C-Series and CD-Series heaters, which are designed to maximize comfort and style in high visibility spaces. Enjoy a wide range of control options – from our exclusive smart home integration offering to our new Universal Control Panel, which enables you to use the dimmers of your choice along with remote functionality via mobile device or smart home assistant. Infratech also offers a variety of standard and custom color choices and mounting options, for a heating system that’s a seamless fit with your property.
New C-Series and CD-Series heaters feature a slim design and compact profile.
To learn more about our capabilities or view our gallery, please visit infratech-usa.com
WWW.INFRATECH-USA.COM | 800-421-9455 3-YEAR WARRANTY | PROUDLY MADE IN USA
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PRODUCT PROFILES thE OrIGInAL pAwLEys IsLAnd hAMMOcK QuILtEd hAMMOcK This hammock features two ample sheets of compellingly designed all-weather fabric quilted together over pillowy polyester fiberfill batting, promising lavish weather-tough reclining in soft-to-skin comfort. It also comes with all-weather and solution-dyed synthetic Sunbrella and DuraCord fabric, rolled-rim grommets, nonabsorbent polyester fiberfill, Marine-Spar-Varnished oak spreader bars, and zinc-plated steel hanging hardware. Contact: (877) 401-9017 or www.pawleysislandhammocks.com. circle reader service no. 116
cd-sErIEs duAL ELEMEnt Infratech introduces its new CDSeries Dual Element outdoor electric radiant heaters. They feature a sleek design that blends seamlessly with the surrounding décor. They will heat an 11’ x 11’ area with mounting heights up to 14’. Features include durable 304 stainless steel construction and inset mounting brackets that create a floating effect when mounted. Choose from brushed stainless steel, standard, and custom color finish options. Contact: (800) 421-9455 or www.infratech-usa.com. circle reader service no. 117
pALMA The Palma is a graceful way to bring luxury lighting home. Personality-wise, Palma is a true modern traditionalist. Of all the pieces in the Les Jardins Solar Lighting collection, it stands out as encompassing both vintage and modern flair at the same time. The accordion-style pleated shade is a nod to classic style, but modern materials like teak bring it up a contemporary notch. Its versatility lends it self to any type of space— whether midcentury, traditional, or an eclectic mix of styles—making it a must-have for bringing outdoor visions to life. Contact: (213) 745-8883 or www.lesjardins.com. circle reader service no. 118
hArMOny stAcKABLE dInInG chAIr The Harmony collection is a new 2019 introduction fashioned by Ciani Design. Contemporary in style, this mixed-media collection combines a Twitchell sling on a frame of powder-coated aluminum with ipê arm and tabletop accents. The Harmony collection consists of stackable dining pieces, round or square bistro tables, and rectangular or square dining tables in gray or white. Contact: (800) 403-0403 or www.jensenleisurefurniture.com. circle reader service no. 119
IrOnstrIKE MOntLAKE 230 The Montlake 230 wood insert offers a more efficient approach to home heating, utilizing a proven Thermal Fin Technology (TFT) that creates 32 percent more surface area than a standard insert design, resulting in more heat entering the room. Finish options include a steel or cast-iron warming top, surround panels in multiple sizes and decorative door trim in multiple finishes. Contact: sales.info@ihp.us.com or www.ironstrike.us.com. circle reader service no. 66
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PRODUCT PROFILES unIVErsAL FrOM nOrthcApE Complement an existing furniture set or create your own with NorthCape’s Universal outdoor furniture collection. Fourteen products in seven finishes are stocked and ready to go in NorthCape’s domestic warehouses. Available pieces include dining tables and chairs, chaise lounge, bar furniture, occasional tables, and more. For a full listing of universal pieces, contact: (708) 563-2890 or ww w.northcape.com. circle reader service no. 121
FOundAtIOn sErIEs By hEAt & GLO Modern in form and luxurious by design, the Foundation series was created with consideration for the whole space. Inspired by key architecture and design principles and then carefully honed to simplicity with clean lines and functional shapes, the Foundation series features are embraced by the most discerning homeowners and builders. A choice of four configurations (Singlesided, See-through, Bay and Pier) in four different lengths—4’, 5’ 6’ and 7’—combines with big, bold flames to elevate your senses with a clear view of the beautiful fire. The Foundation series adds a signature focal point to today’s most sophisticated interiors. Contact: (888) 4273973 or www.heatnglo.com.
urBAn rEtrEAt cOLLEctIOn Klaussner Outdoor, collaborating with artist William Mangum, has an exclusive collection that takes the style and luxurious comfort of indoor furnishings outside. Urban Retreat blends fashionable with functional. This collection is the perfect pairing of today’s lifestyle and modern entertaining, bringing refined and sophisticated furnishings to your veranda, terrace or backyard, and setting the perfect mood. Contact: (336) 625-6174 or www.klaussneroutdoor.com. circle reader service no. 123
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sunGLO psA265 The Sunglo model PSA265 is a permanently mounted gas infrared patio heater. It’s ideal for patios with limited space and access to natural gas. Its heat-coverage average is a 10-foot circle of quiet warmth. The Sunglo PSA265 heater can be manually operated, with no electrical connections needed; the PSA265E version offers a completely automated ignition system. Contact: (888) 317-5255 or www.infradyne.com. circle reader service no. 124
OrtAL’s ExcLusIVE MOduLAr FIrEpLAcE With Ortal’s new modular design, the length of your fireplace can be endless. Ortal’s patented design connects independent front, corner, or three-sided models, creating limitless design possibilities. Plus, the elegant double glass design comes standard with Ortal’s modular fireplaces. For more information on these modular fireplaces or to inquire about becoming a dealer, contact: (844) ORTAL-FIRE or www.ortalheat.com. circle reader service no. 68
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timeless lifestyle furniture
VANCOUVER • ATLANTA • DALLAS • LAS VEGAS • CHICAGO residential | contract | hospitality
ratana.com 1 866 919 1881
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PRODUCT PROFILES
AMErIcAn FyrE dEsIGns’ BrOOKLyn FIrEpLAcE The Brooklyn fireplace takes its cue from the popularity of board formed concrete, a process of patterning concrete that leaves a wood grain image on the finish. Featuring minimalistic lines and a concrete gray body capped with a mantel offered in French Barrel Oak or Silver Pine finish colors, the Brooklyn is available in vented and vent-free options. Contact: (800) 332-3973 or www.americanfyredesigns.com.
sunrIsE MEtAL shOp Sunrise Metal Shop (Topeka, Indiana), as of February 2018, has changed the name of its well-known grill, the Silver Bullet. Shooting for the sky, the company has renamed it the Silver Rocket. Sunrise Metal Shop is taking the outdoor-cooking world to new heights with its insulated, double-walled, 304 stainless-steel grill and outdoor kitchens. Contact: (260) 463-4026. circle reader service no. 129
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pArK wEst
pOLywOOd BrAxtOn cOLLEctIOn Rustic farmhouse meets contemporary with the new Braxton collection. Featuring a classic x-back design, this collection features cozy deep seating as well as dining sets, which seat four to eight guests. Available in Classic POLYWOOD lumber finish. Contact: (877) 457-3284 or www.polywoodoutdoor.com.
Inspired by the contemporary cool of the museum district, the Park West collection by Ratana is an exercise in restrained simplicity of design. With a versatility that lends itself to any environment, create your idea space with the low-profile rope finish on an aluminum frame, and a new hand-brushed pearl color on the frame supported by round tapered legs and a strong sled base. Knitted polyolefin ropes offer UV and weather resistance while the modular design provides flexibility and style. Contact: (866) 919-1881 or www.ratana.com. circle reader service no. 130
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ABsOLutE BLAcK Absolute Black is a well-priced premium black granite fireplace facing from MLW Stone. Rich and luxurious, this durable material is available in the company’s three standard sizes. A strong and resilient surface makes it highly resistant to scratches. This ultra-polished granite lends itself to both contemporary and traditional styles. Contact: (800) 477-7665 or www.mlwstone.com. circle reader service no. 128
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hudsOn MGp Hudson MGP, new for 2019, is designed with a modern twist of the classic Adirondack chair. The Hudson MGP chair is constructed of Marine Grade Polymer, which makes it the perfect item for the beach, lakeside or any backyard. With the added feature of a built-in under-arm bottle opener, you’ll quickly find yourself relaxing in your outdoor oasis with Hudson MGP. Contact: (518) 642-1100 or www.telescopecasual.com. circle reader service no. 131
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PRODUCT PROFILES
ArrOw FrOM OutdurA Arrow, a tribal jacquard design with a native flair, is quite eye-catching. The pattern is created by using a weaving technique that enhances depth and saturation of color of the design. The overall hues are created with a combination of light pastels and earth tones that pair perfectly to create a breathtaking design suitable for any outdoor environment. Available in eight stunning colors, Arrow is sure to be a popular design choice. Contact: (866) 688-3872 or www.outdura.com. circle reader service no. 132
FIrEBIrd OutdOOr GrILL The Wittus Firebird grill is the perfect addition to an open outdoor area that longs for a fire element. Designed by Bent Falk of Denmark, the body is made of Corten steel, which is long lasting and durable. This unique outdoor grill /firepit takes on a natural patina over time when exposed to outdoor elements. The conical shape of the grill plays a part in directing the smoke up and away from the chef, and also creates a natural draft that allows the cook to build fires faster. Grill dimensions: 4’ 3” high, 19” wide, and 19” deep, weighs 160 pounds. Contact: (914) 764-5679 or www.wittus.com. circle reader service no. 133
trEAsurE GArdEn’s 9-FOOt pAGOdA cOLLAr tILt uMBrELLA Treasure Garden’s 9-foot Pagoda Collar Tilt umbrella is a new addition to its line of specialty shade products. This unique classic hexadecagon design easily operates via a crank lift system and a collar-style tilting mechanism. Treasure Garden has put a fresh twist on this Asian Inspired umbrella by adding contrasting trim detail on the canopy along each of the 16 curved f iberglass ribs. All fabrics are 100 percent solution-dyed acrylic with 100 percent solution-dyed polyester trim. Available on a black fluted aluminum pole topped by a stylish slender black aluminum finial that completes this eye-catching umbrella. Available in six color options—pictured in Ginkgo green with black trim. Contact: (626) 814-0168 or www.treasuregarden.com. circle reader service no. 134
prOBuILdEr 42 cLEAn FAcE GAs FIrEpLAcE By FIrEpLAcE xtrOrdInAIr
Nevis is a beautiful new modern addition to Plank & Hide’s outdoor living collections. Traditional cushion seating, sleek design, and synthetic all-weather wide weave rattan give Nevis a simple but sophisticated look. Shown with the fully patented functional firepit, which allows for use of the fire element while maximizing space for food or drink. Contact: (888) 462-6852 or www.plankandhide.com.
The new ProBuilder 42 Clean Face is the largest model in Fireplace Xtrordinair’s ProBuilder Clean Face Series. This fireplace offers more features and benefits than any other large valuepriced fireplace in its class and is ideal for heating living spaces up to 1,750 square feet. The “clean face” style of this fireplace replicates the look of a traditional masonry fireplace with very little metal around the fire-viewing glass. The ProBuilder 42 Clean Face is available in Standing Pilot Millivolt (MV), GreenSmart Basic (GSB), or fully loaded GreenSmart Deluxe models. Contact: (800) 654-1177 or www.fireplacex.com.
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nEVIs cOLLEctIOn
sOhO sLInG Winston introduces Soho Sling, a contemporary, mixed media collection styled with tapered arms and legs as part of the 2019 Quick Ship Program. Soho Sling features a stationary balcony chair with two balcony-size tables. The sleekness of the 30” x 64” balcony table draws much interest as a focal point in this collection. The Soho Sling offering is complete with dining and swivel chairs, bench and tables, a chaise lounge, and side table. Soho Sling ships in three business days FOB Haleyville, Alabama. Contact: (205) 486-9211 or www.winstonfurniture.com. circle reader service no. 137
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REGISTER NOW FOR SPECIAL EVENTS SEMINAR AND THINK TANK Monday, September 9, 12:00 - 7:00 p.m., at theMART Join industry friends and colleagues for an informative afternoon of important topics.
In-Store Events 101: Online Stores Can’t Throw a Party! Presented by:
Gary Drummond
Dan Polanski
Heather Woods
Panel Discussion: Special Events Success Stories
Steve Elton Brown Jordan
Susan Kiley Bay Breeze Patio
Jessica Salisbury Village Green
Brad Schweig Sunnyland
Lunch, sponsored by Treasure Garden, will be available at noon, and the program will begin at 1 p.m. Klaussner Outdoor will host a reception from 6 to 7 p.m. in their showroom, Suite 16-100. Registration is $50 for ICFA members and $75 for non-members. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to City of Hope. Registration is available online at www.icfanet.org. Participants will be eligible to win a variety of door prizes, including merchandise and gift certificates. Special thanks to lead sponsors:
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PRODUCT PROFILES
stAtIOnAry And swIVEL BALcOny chAIr Windward introduces a stationary and swivel balcony chair to its Covina sling collection, making this an excellent option for commercial use and small residential spaces. Covina’s Marine Grade Polymer (MGP) frame features arched bracing and sleek curves, creating a refined yet durable product, available in multiple MGP frame colors. Covina sling chairs are paired with a balcony table from Windward Design Group’s new aluminum etched wood grain table collection. Made of powder-coated aluminum, table options include a side and coffee table, as well as dining and balcony heights. All tables are available in multiple aluminum frame finishes. Contact: (941) 359-0890 or www.windwarddesigngroup.com. circle reader service no. 138
tEMpOtEst Parà SpA introduces Bel Mondo, a new collection of its outdoor/indoor performance fabric, Tempotest. Italian for beautiful world, Bel Mondo is a collaboration from noted outdoor-fabric designers Karen Williams and Brenda Sewell-Bost of the design company D2 and Filippo Uecher, creator of the Maria Flora line of performance fabrics. The collection, woven in Biella, Italy, has elements of Italian flair with a U.S. eye toward color. In this mix, stylish graphics and colorful, multilayered patterns coupled with bold, vibrant textures are featured in a color palette inspired by the beauty found in nature’s simple elements: sun-drenched hues, lush grasslands, cool waters, and rich earth tones provide perfect combinations of color—with no boundaries. Contact: (972) 512-3534 or www.tempotestusa.com.
sAMBA wOVEn dInInG chAIrs And swIVEL rOcKEr This seating from Tropitone boasts opulence to enhance the mood of any outdoor atmosphere. Each woven panel sits just below the frame for a more secure seating experience. Woven materials are not only attractive but extremely durable. Choose from three weave colors and 19 frame finishes. For the product guide and more information, contact: (949) 951-2010 or http://info.tropitone.com/samba. circle reader service no. 141
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MEndOtA LAndscApE FuLLVIEw 42 GAs FIrEpLAcE
Gathering around an outdoor fire continues to be a tradition that homeowners can’t get enough of, and Apricity is prepared to deliver what customers are looking for on your showroom floor. Apricity’s Trenton firepit chat group includes the deep-seating comfort of 360degree swivel rockers in an elegant all-weather wicker weave. Trenton’s centerpiece and firepit features a decorative slatted top and allweather wicker and aluminum base for years of outdoor entertaining. For trendsetting looks that continue to raise the bar in the industry, add Apricity to your product lineup. Contact: (888) 997-7623 or www.apricityoutdoor.com.
Mendota has the traditional-looking landscape design more customers want. The FullView 42 gas fireplace’s unique shape and clean lines create a stunning silhouette that brings luxurious warmth to any space. With an uninterrupted view of some of the best flames in the industry, it makes it hard to focus on anything else. Customers can complete their hearth with a variety of beautiful fronts, fire bases and interior linings that complement their personal style. Contact: (800) 553-5422 or www.mendotahearth.com.
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AprIcIty trEntOn FIrEpIt chAt GrOup
74 • PATIO & HEARTH PRODUCTS REPORT | MAY/JUNE 2019
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PRODUCT PROFILES
BrIsA dIstrEssEd OutdOOr
c.r. pLAstIc prOducts BAy BrEEzE swIVEL ArM chAIr (dsF164) Add the beauty of the beach to your outdoor space. C.R. Plastics’ Bay Breeze Swivel Arm Chair combines the functionality of a swivel with the comfort of this deep seating collection. The island-inspired Bay Breeze Coastal collection has been designed with the surf, sand, and shores in mind. With no need for indoor storage, this piece will provide years of lasting comfort and convenience. Contact (800) 490-1283 or www.crpproducts.com.
Brisa Distressed Outdoor, a classic, relaxed grain colored with leather-inspired hues, is enhanced for use inside or out. Featuring renowned breathable technology, this high-performing pioneer provides ultimate seating comfort and softness, while other enhancements include water repellency, EPA-registered mildew defense, solar endurance and colorfastness. Distressed Outdoor delivers ultimate flexibility and functionality. Contact: (914) 460-1730 or www.ultrafabricsinc.com. circle reader service no. 145
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LOuIsIAnA GrILLs’ 7 sErIEs wOOd pELLEt VErtIcAL sMOKEr yOrK pLAntErs York Planters from CabanaCoast take inspiration from bold geometric structures. Crafted from powder-coated aluminum in black or white finishes, their defining lines enhance and embellish any outdoor or indoor space. Arrange several planters to create a natural privacy screen or pair one with a striking palm plant for a tropical focal point—the options are almost endless. York Planters are offered in a wide range of sizes in high, low, square, round and rectangular profiles, and equipped with removable base holes for optimal drainage. Contact: (855) 502-9988 or www.cabanacoast.com.
Louisiana Grills’ 7 Series Wood Pellet Vertical Smoker is elevating the outdoor grilling experience with over 1,900 square inches of cooking space and six adjustable porcelain-coated cooking racks. Additional features like the 55-pound hopper, extra-large viewing window, and a digital control board allow for dependable, roundthe-clock smoking for up to 35 hours. Contact: (877) 303-3134 or www.louisiana-grills.com. circle reader service no. 146
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cOuntry LAnE’s ArtIsAn wOOd pErGOLA Relax in style and ease with an Artisan Wood Pergola, a showstopping masterpiece that will enhance either the space around a pool or lengthen your outdoor living space. Make your home and landscape resemble a high-end resort by adding an Artisan Wood Pergola. Contact: (866) 885-7847 or www.gazebo.com. circle reader service no. 147
BIG GrEEn EGG custOM cOOKInG IsLAnd The 76-inch custom cooking island from Big Green Egg provides an impressive working surface and features high-quality aluminum and steel construction with solid stainless door pulls, a heavy-duty sliding shelf, paper towel rack, and ample storage for charcoal and grilling tools. It also comes with a durable, weather resistant powder-coated finish and a lifetime warranty. Also available in a more compact 49-inch size. Contact: (770) 938-9394 or www.biggreenegg.com. circle reader service no. 148
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IsOpAnELs Summer is arriving and with the allure of backyard barbecue in the air, now is the time to be the envy of all your neighbors. Earthcore has created a system to build the backyard barbecue of your dreams called the ISOpanel. With the ISOpanel system, in just a few short days, you could go from having that old stand-alone barbecue to an entire outdoor kitchen. Isokern kitchen sets are available either prepackaged in an 8’, a 10’x10’, or an “L” shaped kitchen. Contact: (800) 642-2920 or www.earthcore.co. circle reader service no. 149
TUESDAY | SEPTEMBER 10 TO FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 13
2019
LOVInFLAME tABLEtOp FIrEpIt Lovinflame’s tabletop firepits are freestanding and portable, allowing you to enjoy clean-burning, wind-resistant, and odorless flames—whether indoors or outdoors. The technology behind the safer flames is powered by a proprietary stainless steel wick and a non-flammable, water-soluble, and non-toxic fuel that minimizes emissions, flare-ups, and risks associated with fuel spills. Contact: (800) 474-5587 or www.lovinflame.com. circle reader service no. 150
GrEEnwIch MArKEt uMBrELLA The Greenwich aluminum market umbrella from Frankford Umbrellas is elegant, refined, and sure to satisfy your need for shade in any upscale commercial or residential setting. Available in five sizes, there are options for any space and shade need. Its sturdy—yet beautiful— aluminum frame, polished silver finish, and marine chrome-plated aluminum finial add the perfect touch to give your cherished outdoor space the enhanced appearance found at luxury resorts, hotels, and restaurants. Contact: (856) 222-4134 or www.frankfordumbrellas.com. circle reader service no. 151
SEE THE WORLD OF OUTDOOR FURNISHINGS theMART, Chicago
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PRODUCT PROFILES GEnsun’s MAnhAttAn II cOLLEctIOn cArOL rOsE OutdOOr LInEAr FIrEpIt Light up the night with the Carol Rose outdoor linear firepit with integrated color LED lighting. The reliable spark ignition system and three-position gas valve allows you to light the fire in seconds and set the flame height to suit any occasion. With exterior surfaces built with 11-gauge marine-grade 316 stainless steel, this firepit will bring ambiance to your outdoor space for several years. Available in 48-inch (55,000 BTU) and 60-inch (65,000 BTU) models through American Hearth dealers. Contact: (800) 851-3153 or www.americanhearth.com.
Inspired by rich neo-classical New York interiors, this collection is a delicate combination of classic and contemporary form. Lighter and airier than Manhattan, Manhattan II has the style, grace, and artistic detail of Manhattan. The only change is removal of the interlocking loop and knot under the arm. No sacrifice has been made to the rich design and comfort. Crafted from cast and extruded aluminum. Contact: (866) 964-4468 or www.gensuncasual.com. circle reader service no. 155
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hAttErAs hAMMOcKs’ tuFtEd hAMMOcK
LAurELtOn 5-pIEcE dEEp sEAtInG sEt The Foremost Casual Laurelton collection features four spacious, comfortable wicker club chairs and a stunning 42-inch round TerraFab wood-looking coffee table with a chic aluminum base. Chairs are handwoven in all-weather resin wicker wrapped around lightweight, corrosion resistant aluminum powder-coated frames finished in a meticulously hand-applied stunning Brushed Walnut Finish that complements any décor. The Laurelton collection is available in the Domestic Warehouse Program and can ship within 48 hours. Contact: (973) 428-0400 or www.verandaclassics.com.
A masterpiece of outdoor leisure and comfort, the Tufted Hammock will elevate your outdoor experience to the realm of art. This outdoor showpiece features all-weather and solution-dyed synthetic Sunbrella and DuraCord fabric with matching tufted pillow and a recycled nonabsorbent polyester fiberfill interior. High-quality finishing touches include Cumaru spreader bars, zinc-plated steel handing hardware, and rolled-rim grommets. Contact: (800) 334-1078 or www.thehammocksource.com. circle reader service no. 156
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QuAdrA-FIrE trEKKEr sErIEs Adds A nEw cOLOr
InFInIty cAnOpy
Quadra-Fire unveils the Trekker pellet stove and insert (featuring Efficient Energy Technology) in a new beautiful color: porcelain twilight. This new finish offers the durability of a powdercoat finish in a porcelain color. The new twilight color gives the consumer more design choices and dealers more sales opportunities. Contact: (800) 926-4356 or www.quadrafire.com.
Infinity Canopy’s innovative and stylish shade coverings continue to impress specialty retailers and customers alike. Pictured here are five expansive canopies (measuring 5’5” wide x 20” long in sleek Phifertex Plus white shade) that provide a serene, cooling cover from the harsh rays of the sun. These artfully assembled canopies transformed this outdoor-living space into a modern, coastal paradise, and they will do the same for your customers. Infinity Canopy’s designs are ideal for beachfront homes or businesses, creating shaded areas for homeowners or guests to relax, while elevating the natural beauty of the ocean with a soothing, stylish design. The canopies also pair well with an array of patio furniture, firepits and decor, making them the perfect complement to luxurious beachfront properties. Contact: 844-4-CANOPY or www.infinitycanopy.com.
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78 • PATIO & HEARTH PRODUCTS REPORT | MAY/JUNE 2019
sOhO wOVEn As part of the 2019 Quick Ship Program, Winston introduces Soho Woven, a contemporary, mixed media collection styled with tapered arms and legs. Soho Woven features nesting stationary and swivel dining chairs that can be paired with two dining table sizes. A dining bench, chaise, and side table are also available. The Soho Woven offering is complete with balcony dining chairs and tables. Soho Woven ships in three business days FOB Haleyville, Alabama. Contact: (205) 486-9211 or www.winstonfurniture.com. circle reader service no. 158
JEtt cOLLEctIOn Inspired by the gullwing aircraft of yesteryear, furniture designer Seth Alguire created Jensen Leisure Furniture’s 2019 Jett Collection. The sleek, linear design combines 100 percent FSC-certified Ipe timber with a black, powder-coated aluminum frame. Versatile insertable Side and Coffee Tabletops in choice of black, white or Ipe tops. Contact: (800) 403-0403 or www.jensenleisurefurniture.com. circle reader service no. 159
AVA cOLLEctIOn Ava, which combines midcentury sophistication with transitional styling, features a fully welded hand-finished aluminum base with tapered legs, fused together to complement a multihued gray mineral weave. The button-tufted back cushion complements a flared seat deck, making for a distinguished, yet ultra-comfortable sit. Occasional outdoor aluminum tables are etched and hand finished to look like authentic wood accents and double as functional stations, featuring hidden ice cooler, beverage, and snack holders. Contact: (888) 462-6852 or www.plankandhide.com. circle reader service no. 160
c-sErIEs sInGLE ELEMEnt Infratech introduces its new C-Series Single Element outdoor electric radiant heaters. They feature a sleek design that blends seamlessly with the surrounding décor. They will heat a 10’ x 10’ area with mounting heights up to 11’. Features include durable 304 stainless steel construction and inset mounting brackets that create a “floating” effect when mounted. Choose from brushed stainless steel, standard, and custom color finish options. Contact: (800) 421-9455 or www.infratech-usa.com. circle reader service no. 161
trAdItIOn The classic lantern design, reinterpreted. Tradition balances a tall, slender silhouette with simple details such as a natural teak frame and rectangular windows. A stainless steel handle keeps it fresh and practical for everyday use. Crafted out of natural teak, this classic portable lantern comes in two sizes and features a smart solar module that’s interchangeable across the entire Les Jardins line. Contact: (213) 745-8883 or www.lesjardins.com. circle reader service no. 162
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PRODUCT PROFILES pArAdIsE pOwEr sOLutIOns Keep the acrylic fabrics of cushions and umbrellas looking their best with Paradise Power Solutions. The kit includes two onegallon containers that provide key components to increase the life of outdoor fabrics. Paradise Power Solutions Protector prevents mildew, promotes water repellency, and repels UV rays that can cause fading without changing the breathability of the fabric. Paradise Power Solutions Cleaner is designed to safely loosen dirt and stains on cushions and umbrella canopies made of furniture or marine grade acrylic fabrics. Regular cleaning and twice yearly protection helps delay the look of aging. Contact: (866) 667-8668 or www.paradisecushions.com.
cAL-sIL FIrE tABLE FrOM nOrthcApE Make sure to check out NorthCape’s new Cal-Sil fire tables! Cal-Sil fire tables are offered in two sizes—42-inch round and 48x 28-inch rectangle— and in two beautiful finishes—Gunmetal and Midnight. Cal-Sil provides a sturdy, all-weather stone-look finish that weighs 80 percent less than traditional stone. Contact: (708) 563-2890 or www.northcape.com.
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LyrIc FIrEpLAcEs By OrtAL Lyric by Ortal is a new line of gas fireplaces that lets builders enhance the profile of any home, without exceeding project limitations. High-quality, value-engineered Lyric fireplaces come in Front Facing, two- and threesided, Stand Alone and Tunnel models. With popular options, including a selection of media, Safety Screen Barrier for safe, crystal clear viewing, plus Cool Wall and Power Vent technologies for anywhere installation, Lyric fireplaces are a smart fit for any project. Want to become a Lyric dealer? Contact: (844) LYRIC-FIRE or www.lyricfireplace.com. circle reader service no. 165
FArO Faro is one of MLW Stone’s most affordable stones. A strong and durable material, Faro has no natural fissures and features a classic polished finish. Consistent beige coloring makes it the perfect choice for any project. This stone is available in three standard sizes. Contact: (800) 477- 7665 or orders@mlwalker.com or www.mlwstone.com. circle reader service no. 166
rEFLEctIOns FrOM OutdurA Reflections, a textural dobby pattern, takes inspiration from the play on light. The overall intricate texture of the design makes it perfect as a body cloth or as an accessory fabric. Available in 22 distinct colors, Reflections will make a great addition to any outdoor setting to add that special touch. Contact: (866) 688-3872 or www.outdura.com. circle reader service no. 167
pOLywOOd pLAntAtIOn pOrch rOcKInG chAIr The new Plantation porch rocking chair is a timeless, all-weather rocker that will add a touch of tradition to any front porch. Available in Classic POLYWOOD lumber finish, this new addition pairs well with a variety of POLYWOOD side tables. Contact: (877) 457-3284 or www.polywoodoutdoor.com. circle reader service no. 168
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sunrIsE MEtAL shOp
New for 2020 is a fresh fabric program from OW Lee! The Destinations Fabric collection includes 37 new fabrics and aims to bring the rich colors and vibrant patterns of world cultures to the comfort of the backyard. This program features fabrics from Sunbrella that are available in limited distribution, including specialty and design channels. Contact: (800) 776-9533 or www.owlee.com.
Sunrise Metal Shop (Topeka, Indiana), as of February 2018, has changed the name of its wellknown grill, the Silver Bullet. Shooting for the sky, the company has renamed it the Silver Rocket. Sunrise Metal Shop is taking the outdoor-cooking world to new heights with its insulated, double-walled, 304 stainless-steel grill and outdoor kitchens. Contact: (260) 463-4026.
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dEstInAtIOns FABrIcs FrOM sunBrELLA By Ow LEE
FIrE MAGIc ELEctrIc GrILL IsLAnd The new Fire Magic Electric Grill Island bundle delivers a complete outdoor kitchen system ideal for patios with limited space or where fuel is unavailable. The bundle features a Fire Magic electric table top grill, refrigerator with stainless steel door and double drawer unit 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. 170
pOLAncO The Polanco collection from Ratana was inspired by the culturally diverse and eclectic area in Mexico City. The hand-brushed pearl finish on the frame with round tapered legs and a wide comfortable carved wood look armrest create a modular and flexible way to relax in style. The interlocking system allows sectional pieces to be secured in whichever formation you desire. Contact: (866) 919-1881 or www.ratana.com. circle reader service no. 172
st. cAthErInE cushIOn MGp St. Catherine Cushion MGP is designed with both superior comfort and style in mind. St. Catherine cushion is a sure win with its rugged construction and beautiful profile. St. Catherine boasts thick plush cushions and wide arms for maximum comfort and relaxation. Made in New York with USA-sourced raw materials. Contact: (518) 642-1100 or www.telescopecasual.com. circle reader service no. 173
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. 174
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PRODUCT PROFILES
prOBuILdEr 24 cLEAn FAcE GAs FIrEpLAcE By FIrEpLAcE xtrOrdInAIr Joining Fireplace Xtrordinair’s ProBuilder series of value-priced gas fireplaces is the new ProBuilder 24 Clean Face. This portrait-style fireplace is perfect for heating small, intimate spaces such as bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens. The vertical profile and beautiful flame presentation complement all décor, while the sleek “clean face” style allows non-combustible finishes to be installed close to the glass. The ProBuilder 24 Clean Face will be available this summer in your choice of Standing Pilot Millivolt (MV) or GreenSmart Basic (GSB) models. Contact: (800) 654-1177 or www.fireplacex.com.
The Samba cushion from Tropitone is tailored for luxurious outdoor spaces. The sled base design keeps seating stable on pervious surfaces. The back cushions, designed with small boxing for a clean look, utilize snaps inside the frame to keep them secure. Available in woven or open versions. Choose from three weave colors and 19 frame finishes. For the product guide and more information, contact: (949) 951-2010 or http://info.tropitone.com/samba.
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sAMBA cushIOn
JArdInIcO Jcp.501 dEsIGnEr QuAd sIdEpOst uMBrELLA With the ability to cover over 430 square feet in designer shade, the latest introduction from Jardinico is the JCP.501 Quad Sidepost umbrella. Jardinico’s JCP.501 features aluminum construction and a crank lift system. Available to be configured as two, three or four umbrellas, and however many shades chosen, each one operates and tilts individually. The Jardinico shade is well suited for residential and hospitality installations. Contact: (626) 814-0168 or www.jardinico-caractere.com. circle reader service no. 177
Lx1 pIEr VALEncIA dAyBEd ZUO’s Valencia daybed offers a versatile crescentshaped design, featuring a modern oversized synthetic weave in light gray. The Valencia boasts a sturdy aluminum frame with ultra-plush seat daybed cushions and five throw pillows. Upholstered in light gray Sunproof–Solution Dyed Acrylic fabric. Sold separately, an oversized Valencia coffee table adds the finishing touch while helping to entertain guests and ensure your enjoyment outdoors. Contact: (866) 7-ZUOMOD or https://zuomod.com/outdoor.
Valor’s latest multisided linear fireplace, the three-sided LX1 pier, is engineered for 180- degree enjoyment and provides outstanding radiant heat performance. Designed to bridge two rooms together, large or small, the fireplace also helps define spaces with its inviting warmth. Available with new Birch, the LX1 will suit homeowners who value aesthetics, performance, and safety. The LX1 features the Valor HeatShift—reducing wall temperatures and improving overall performance. Contact: (800) 468-2567 or www.valorfireplaces.com.
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dE MAnIncOr cOOKstOVE Designed in Italy for five generations, the de Manincor cookstoves are a traditional kitchen hearth product. This eco-friendly heat producer utilizes the ECOPLUS system, which uses preheated secondary air, a process that creates cleaner smoke and lower levels of air pollution. The art of cooking on a wood-burning fire is complete with these beautiful cookstoves, which are manufactured with top quality, heavy duty stainless steel and available in Domino 6 & 8 Maxi, Domina, Atmosfera, and Eco wood-burning models. Colors include Red, Blue, Black, Ivory, and Stainless Steel. Contact: (914) 764-5679 or www.wittus.com. circle reader service no. 180
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AntLEr hILL cOLLEctIOn Castelle recently introduced its latest designs from the Biltmore by Castelle line with the Antler Hill collection. The collection bears the name of a historic fixture on Biltmore’s estate. Home to the Winery, Farmyard, and a variety of craft demonstrations, Biltmore’s Antler Hill Village pays homage to the estate’s agricultural heritage. The village is anchored by a century-old horse barn that was once the social and work center for estate families, who lived in charming farmhouses and cottages in the surrounding area. Like Biltmore, Castelle’s commitment to quality, thoughtful design, and timeless style ensures that its carefully crafted products are relevant to modern lifestyles, and as beautiful as they are functional in outdoor settings. Contact: (855) 612-9800 or www.castelleluxury.com. circle reader service no. 181
suMMuM 100 c dIrEct-VEnt FIrEpLAcE By ELEMEnt4 The Summum 100 Corner gas fireplace comes standard with the Real Flame Burner System. This innovative burner solution creates the most realistic flame patterns available today as the burners are specially designed to wrap your flames around a detailed log set, just as you would see in a real wood-burning fire. European Home is the exclusive distributor of Element4 in North America. Contact: (781) 324-8383 or www.europeanhome.com/product/summum-100-corner-gas-fireplace. circle reader service no. 182
MOntIGO dELrAy Beautify your home at an entry level price point with Montigo’s newest linear fireplace, specifically designed for affordability as well as beautiful flames inside a sleek and modern firebox. The DelRay was designed with ease of installation in mind with its slim 14 ¼-inch framing depth all within a stunning clean face design. Adding features as well as converting to propane can all be performed in minutes with a simple conversion kit and easy access to the control board. Contact: (800) 378-3115 or www.montigo.com.
hEMInGwAy pLAntAtIOn Enjoy a classic island look with the elegant style of Hemingway Plantation from Lane Venture. Distinguished by robust cast aluminum leg turnings and wide paddle arms, the powder-coated finish is handcrafted in a sophisticated matte black truffle coloration. The synthetic wicker features warm and rich tones of brown. Accent items have a cast aluminum stylized leaf that adds a modern tropical element to the assortment. This collection includes deep seating, occasional, dining, and a coordinating firepit. Contact: (888) 790-4025 or www.laneventure.com. circle reader service no. 184
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hEstAn Stainless steel design complements 8-foot and 12-foot units with cutouts for builtin grills, sleek storage space, double-side burners and refrigeration capabilities. New configurations offer the option to add a power burner—which delivers 70,000 BTU of tremendous cooking power from the 321SS tubular outer burner (50,000 BTU) and the brass inner burner (20,000 BTU)—or an egg-shaped smoker/grill—for a complete outdoor cooking experience. Contact: (888) 905-7463 or https://home.hestan.com/outdoor-products. circle reader service no. 185
rEGEncy cOnturA rI50 wOOd FIrEpLAcE Modern Scandinavian style comes to North America. The Regency Contura Ri50 offers clean, elegant lines and three generously sized glass viewing windows. Able to accommodate top or rear venting, the freestanding design makes it easy to add dynamic wood fire ambiance to any room. Regency’s Contura wood fireplace was designed for modern tastes with a load-it-and-leave-it design that makes building and maintaining a wood fire easy. Contact: (800) 442-7432 or www.regency-fire.com. circle reader service no. 186
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PERSPECTIVE continued from page 56 else’s…some of those things will be revealed this year, and we're going to be releasing them to our dealer network as we go along.” EXPANSION THROUGH ACQUISITION In the Summer of 2017, Campbell described Ironhaus items as, “mostly a blacksmith rustic type of wrought iron product, which was very handcrafted, and very high end.” He wanted to expand options, and eventually opportunity knocked. Specifically, longtime fireplace maker (and competitor) Portland Willamette was rumored to be closing its doors. Campbell admired the company, so he went to its Oregon headquarters to see if there was an opportunity to acquire it. From there, Campbell reveals, “We bought it in an asset sale, and we built an addition to our own facility while we were acquiring Portland. We did not keep all the [Portland Willamette] product lines, but we kept a lot. We bought all the equipment, product lines, and raw materials for the fireplaces and screens. We brought the electroplating department over and set that up in our facility as well. We may be the only fireplace company that has an in-house plating plant, and we’re proud of that.” Ironhaus benefitted from Portland Willamette’s
vast plating expertise, largely cultivated in the 1970s when brass was in vogue. “In my mind, Portland Willamette never really recovered from that change away from brass in the 1980s,” Campbell says. “I think everyone thought brass might come back, but it never did.” Acquiring Portland Willamette instantly created a wider spectrum of products, making Ironhaus a more complete fireplace door company. “Whether it be modern, contemporary, or rustic, we can provide it all,” he says. “We already do our finishes very well, and we're the leader with that look on wrought iron doors. Now with in-house plating, we're innovating a lot with new plated finishes, and there's still a big market for a lot of the plated finishes. Brass has not come back, but variations of brass are becoming very popular—so our in-house electroplating plant is huge.” Campbell acknowledges that the first year of absorbing Portland Willamette (from mid-2017) had its share of growing pains. “The first year, we hurt a lot of dealers’ feelings because it took a long time to get things out, and they didn't know what was going on,” he admits. “We lost a few dealers during that transition, but many came back when they found out things were under control. We
eventually added 40 percent to 50 percent capacity and 2018 was very smooth and way more efficient than the previous year.” Most Ironhaus products are sold through a loyal dealer network that only expanded with the addition of Portland Willamette. Some dealers have been selling Ironhaus and Portland products for more than three decades. While ownership has changed, Portland Willamette retains its brand name on all its products. “We’ve been able to get our Ironhaus products into Portland locations, too, and I think that has been beneficial for the Ironhaus side of the product line,” Campbell says. “We sell across the United States to the high-end homes, tract homes, and to middle class America. Now we have something for everybody in every price range, in whatever design style.” Many dealers and customers appreciate the company’s made in the U.S.A. ethos, and the made in Montana angle also resonates. “I’m proud that we're in Montana,” Campbell says. “It's a rural area. Our employees are tough, rugged craftsmen. They are detail-oriented people who work hard. If we did this in some big city, I don't think it would feel the same. We choose to be here, and it’s an exciting part of who we are.”
crank auto tilt. Available in multiple sizes and frame finishes, the Monterey allows users to bring commercial durability to their outdoor living space. Of course, Frankford Umbrellas is constantly reviewing and improving its product designs, while also introducing new designs. Some of the new and newly redesigned products for 2019 include: Greenwich Aluminum Market Umbrella: Available in five sizes, the Greenwich is elegant, refined and sure to satisfy the need for shade in any upscale commercial or residential setting. The easy glide pulley system allows for a smooth opening and closing. Its sturdy aluminum frame, polished silver finish, and solid marine chrome plated aluminum finial add the perfect touch to give cherished outdoor spaces the enhanced appearance found at luxury resorts, hotels, and restaurants. G-Series (Giant) Market Umbrellas: The GSeries is the flagship center post umbrella for luxury resorts, hotels, and high-end outdoor living spaces. Built with the same commercial quality as the smaller Greenwich and Monterey umbrellas, the G-Series offers free-standing maximum shade options on a larger 2” center post. The G-Series Greenwich has redefined the aluminum market umbrella. The stylish, well-designed frame, high-polished silver anodized finish and solid marine chrome plated aluminum finial offer the perfect finishing touch to any upscale environment. “We took our renowned Monterey fiberglass
market umbrella and maximized its potential with the new G-Series Monterey,” Dudley says. Now with a single 2” diameter center post and superior ¾” thick fiberglass ribs, this impressive frame is sure to hold its beautiful aesthetic shape without sacrificing flexibility.
LAST WORD continued from page 58 product that won’t cause headaches (i.e. returns and repairs) is crucial,” Dudley says. “And, of course, proper product training is critical to success in selling any product, and Frankford is a great support for our retailers in training.” Some of Frankford’s best-selling products include: Eclipse Cantilever Umbrella: This modern umbrella (available in a 13’ octagon and a 10’ square) combines style with strength, size and durability. Heavy gauge extruded aluminum and stainless steel parts on a marine grade corrosion resistant aluminum frame ensures the Eclipse is ideal for all environments. With its Infinity Tilt and 360° rotation, the Eclipse provides complete shade flexibility. Aurora Cantilever Umbrella: The Aurora (available in an 11’ octagon and a 9’ square) uses the most durable materials available to provide years of trouble-free enjoyment. Its Infinity Tilt allows users to change positions effortlessly. This modern cantilever is suitable for use in low to moderate wind conditions and ensures hours of protection from the sun and light rain. Monterey Fiberglass Umbrella: This collection, using the most resilient materials available, features half-inch-thick fiberglass ribs that allow the frame t o flex in wind, while the durable aluminum center pole, and maintenance-free resin and stainless steel parts ensure this umbrella will provide years of worry-free shade. Choose from a heavy gauge pulley system, sturdy crank non-tilting, or industry-best
84 • PATIO & HEARTH PRODUCTS REPORT | MAY/JUNE 2019
WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS Umbrellas, a staple in outdoor living, continue to be a growth segment as outdoor spaces expand. Frankford Umbrellas strives to meet that need by pushing the envelope in marketing, quality, customer service, and design. “As the consumer becomes more educated, and begins to understand that their umbrella is no longer simply an accessory to their luxury outdoor living space—but is an integral component that should have the same quality and longevity as their furnit ure—Frankford will continue to grow and flourish,” Dudley says. “In this ‘Amazon Prime’ world, more and more consumers are turning to websites and online big-box retailers to purchase inexpensive—and in many cases poorly manufactured— goods that are delivered in two to three days,” Dudley says. “High-end retailers must adjust to this new world by offering their customers unique, highquality products . No outdoor space is complete without shade, and we truly believe that while the furniture is the heart of an outdoor space, the umbrella is the soul.”
Advertiser INDEX Advertiser
Phone
Product Profiles DIRECTORY Website
Page
Company
Page
Aei . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(949) 474-3070 . . . . .www.aeicorporation.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Aei ..............................................................................................................62
Agio, usA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(888) 997-7623 . . . . .www.agio-usa.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
American fyre designs (rH Peterson) ..............................................................70
Big Green egg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(770) 938-9394 . . . . .www.biggreenegg.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
American Hearth (empire comfort systems)......................................................78 Apricity (Agio) ........................................................................................62, 74
c.r. Plastic Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 490-1283 . . . . .www.crpproducts.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
Big Green egg ........................................................................................64, 76
cabanacoast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(855) 502-9988 . . . . .www.cabanacoast.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
c.r. Plastic Products ................................................................................62, 76
country lane Gazebos . . . . . . . . . . . . .(866) 885-7847 . . . . .www.gazebo.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
cabanacoast ..........................................................................................64, 76
dansons, usA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(877) 303-3134 . . . . .www.dansons.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
castelle ......................................................................................................83
earthcore industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 642-2920 . . . . .www.earthcore.co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
country lane Gazebos ............................................................................64, 76
empire comfort systems . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 851-3153 . . . . . .www.empirecomfort.com . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
earthcore industries ................................................................................64, 77 european Home............................................................................................83
foremost Groups/ veranda classics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(973) 428-0400 . . . . .www.verandaclassics.com . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
fire Magic (rH Peterson) ................................................................................81 fireplace Xtrordinair (travis industries)........................................................72, 82
frankford umbrellas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(856) 222-4134 . . . . .www.frankfordumbrellas.com . . . . . . . . . .59
foremost Groups/veranda classics ..........................................................64, 78
Gensun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(866) 964-4468 . . . . .www.gensuncasual.com . . . . . . . . . . .86, 87
frankford umbrellas ................................................................................60, 77
the Hammock source . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 334-1078 . . . . .www.thehammocksource.com . . . . . . . . .40
Gensun ..................................................................................................65, 78
Hearth & Home technologies . . . . . . .(888) 427-3973 . . . . .www.hearthnhome.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
the Hammock source....................................................................................78
icfA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(336) 881-1016 . . . . . .www.icfanet.org . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 iMc/ las vegas Market . . . . . . . . . . . . .(702) 599-3046 . . . . .www.lasvegasmarket.com . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 informa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(866) 490-3097 . . . . .www.poolspapatio.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
Heat & Glo (Hearth & Home technologies) ......................................................68 Hestan ........................................................................................................83 infinity canopy..............................................................................................78 infrared dynamics (Aei) ..................................................................................68
infratech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 421-9455 . . . . .www.infratech-usa.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
infratech ................................................................................................66, 79
innovative Hearth Products . . . . . . . . .(256) 398-3267 . . . . .www.ihp.us.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
ironstrike (innovative Hearth Products) ......................................................60, 66
Jensen leisure furniture . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 403-0403 . . . . .www.jensenleisurefurniture.com . . . . . . . .51
Jardinico (treasure Garden) ............................................................................82
Klaussner outdoor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(336) 625-6174 . . . . .www.klaussneroutdoor.com . . . . . . . . . . .57
Jensen leisure furniture............................................................................66, 79 Klaussner outdoor ..................................................................................60, 68
les Jardins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(213) 745-8883 . . . . .www.lesjardins.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
lane venture ................................................................................................83
lovinflame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 474-5587 . . . . .www.lovinflame.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
les Jardins ..............................................................................................66, 79
Mendota Hearth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 553-5422 . . . . .www.mendotahearth.com . . . . . . . . . .12, 13
louisiana Grills (dansons) ........................................................................60, 76
Merchandise Mart Properties . . . . . . .(800) 677-6278 . . . . .www.casualmarket.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
lovinflame ..............................................................................................65, 77
MlW stone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 477-7665 . . . . .www.mlwstone.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
lyric (ortal) ..................................................................................................80
Northcape . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(708) 563-2890 . . . . .www.northcape.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Mendota Hearth ......................................................................................62, 74 MlW stone ............................................................................................70, 80
ortal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(844) ortAl-fire . . . .www.ortalheat.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Montigo ......................................................................................................83
outdura . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(866) 688-3872 . . . . .www.outdura.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
Northcape ............................................................................................68, 80
oW lee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 776-9533 . . . . .www.owlee.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
ortal............................................................................................................68
Paradise cushions by fiberBuilt . . . . .(866) 667-8668 . . . . .www.paradisecushions.com . . . . . . . . . . .68 Plank & Hide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(888) 462-6852 . . . . .www.plankandhide.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
outdura ................................................................................................72, 80 oW lee ..................................................................................................60, 81 Paradise cushions by fiberBuilt ................................................................65, 80
PolYWood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(877) 457-3284 . . . . .www.polywoodoutdoor.com . . . . . . . . . . .9 ratana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(866) 919-1881 . . . . . .www.ratana.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Pawleys island Hammocks..............................................................................66 Plank & Hide ....................................................................................62, 72, 79
rH Peterson company . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 332-3973 . . . . .www.rhpeterson.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
PolYWood ..........................................................................................70, 80
sunbrella . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(336) 221-2211 . . . . . .www.sunbrella.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Quadra-fire (Hearth & Home technologies)......................................................78
sunrise Metal shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(260) 463-4026 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
ratana ....................................................................................................70, 81
telescope casual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(518) 642-1100 . . . . . .www.telescopecasual.com . . . . . . . . . . . .55
regency fireplaces ......................................................................................83 sunrise Metal shop ..................................................................................70, 81
tempotest usA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(972) 512-3534 . . . . .www.tempotestusa.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
telescope casual ....................................................................................70, 81
travis industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 654-1177 . . . . . .www.travisindustries.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
tempotest usA ........................................................................................74, 81
treasure Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(626) 814-0168 . . . . . .www.treasuregarden.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
treasure Garden............................................................................................72
tropitone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(949) 951-2010 . . . . . .www.tropitone.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
tropitone................................................................................................74, 82
ultrafabrics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(914) 460-1730 . . . . . .www.ultrafabricsinc.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
ultrafabrics ............................................................................................62, 76
valor fireplaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(800) 468-2567 . . . . .www.valorfireplaces.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
valor fireplaces ......................................................................................60, 82 White Mountain Hearth (empire comfort systems) ............................................64
Windward design Group . . . . . . . . . . .(941) 359-0890 . . . . .www.windwarddesigngroup.com . . . . . .47
Windward design Group................................................................................74
Winston furniture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(205) 486-9211 . . . . . .www.winstonfurniture.com . . . . . . . . . . . .63
Winston furniture ....................................................................................72, 79
Wittus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(914) 764-5679 . . . . .www.wittus.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79
Wittus ....................................................................................................72, 82
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. 14, No. 3 © 2019 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.
MAY/JUNE 2019 | PATIO & HEARTH PRODUCTS REPORT • 85
OUTDOOR FURNITURE AND KITCHENS HEADQUAR TERS – 9449 8th Street | Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730 Phone: 909.989.9977 | Fax: 909.989.9970 | Toll Free: 866.964.4468 CHICAGO SHOWROOM – Merchandise Mart Suite 1667 | Chicago, IL 60654 GENSUNCASUAL .COM
Barclay Collection
Circle Reader Service No. 87
Our passion is our
people. Their passion is our product.
“
I feel privileged to work with a brand that enjoys such a rich heritage in our industry. We take craftsmanship seriously, and I’m constantly amazed by the passion our artisans pour into creating our stoves and inserts. No detail is too small, no element insignificant for consumers who care about warmth and comfort as well as true craftsmanship.
Joe Kuefler Brand Director, Vermont Castings
©2019 Hearth & Home Technologies | ADS-278
Circle Reader Service No. 88