Patio & Hearth Products Report November/December 2022

Guest Editorial – Lean & Mean

By Alex Flores

A successful outdoor living retailer shares his formula for how to shine in a competitive marketplace. 20 Spotlight – Stove Season

By Greg Thompson Cost savings, fuel options, and versatile style choices are driving consumers’ demand for stoves. 28

A Year in Review – Seeking Stability

42

Showroom Showcase – West Coast Vibes

By Kimberly Rodgers

A family-owned retailer in Orange County, California, prides itself in offering popular designs and superior service. 46 As I See It – Sturdy & Stylish

By

Larry Thomas Retailers in the hearth, grill, and casual furniture industries reflect on 2022 and look forward to the year ahead. 32

Hearth Retailer – Deep Roots

By

Maura Keller

Long-time New Jersey fireplace store flourishes by remaining closely connected to customers. 38

Outdoor Grilling – Staying Strong

By

Sharon Sanders

A successful grill and hearth retailer works strategically to keep business robust during challenging times.

By Sharon Sanders Customers are drawn to Breezesta for its attractive and tough recycled poly-lumber outdoor furniture. 50 My Turn – The Danver Difference By Kimberly Rodgers Danver’s high-quality outdoor kitchens ensure beauty, functionality, and durability. 52

HPC Fire Inspired has a long-standing reputation for enhancing the hearth experience for customers.

HEADING UP AN ASSOCIATION

can be difficult at times, especially considering that associations serve multiple entities. At times, it can be a thankless job. Just ask the commissioners of the National Football League, Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association, and the National Hockey League. These folks hear more boos when they are intro duced at sporting events than you’ll hear watch ing, “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.”

After having served for the past 16 years as president of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), Jack Goldman will be retiring at the end of the year. Under Jack’s leadership, the HPBA has done an excellent job serving its members, representing the industry on numerous fronts, and has helped to advance the industry on the retail, commercial, and consumer level.

Jack first joined the HPBA when he switched from patent law to corpo rate law, at the behest of then HPBA president, Carter Keithley. Jack initially was responsible for government affairs, codes and standards, and legal issues. Jack suc ceeded Keithley as president in 2006. One of Jack’s greatest enjoyments has been getting to know the people in the industry through serving on committees, boards, affiliate meetings, manufacturer headquarters visits, and attending HPBExpo.

Jack says he knew very little about the industry’s products when he first joined HPBA. Over the years, he has come to greatly value the innovation and what it takes to conceive and design the products that make up our industry. Jack has always valued and respected his colleagues at HPBA, which has helped to make his job even more enjoyable. “HPBA’s staff is committed to the industry. They take pride in their work and are great to work with,” says Jack. In addi tion, Jack is proud of how HPBA is an advocate on the industry’s behalf to the government, how HPBA pro motes the industry, collects data by and for the indus try, and maintains a certification and education pro gram for installers and salespeople. While he will cer tainly miss being president of HPBA, Jack feels it is time for “new blood” at the top of HPBA.

They say you can tell a lot about a person based on what their peers have to say about them. Jerry Scott, senior vice president at RH Peterson Co., shared the following about Jack.

“I first met Jack Goldman as I began my service on the HPBA board of directors in 2002. Jack was primarily our association’s government affairs expert. I was impressed by his grasp and knowl

edge of the very complicated and detailed regula tions and restrictions that our industry faced. In 2006, I prepared to begin my tenure as HPBA chair man of the board. The first issue I was confronted with was the resignation of Carter Keithley as HPBA president. Carter had been the only president our association employed since the founding of HPBA and its predecessors. Jack became the interim presi dent at that time. Jack continued to impress me as we worked at running the association. His expertise in governmental affairs was well known, but his skill in working as the head of the association soon became apparent. His management of the finances and budgeting, his work with the staff and with the board was exemplary. He communicated with me frequently and guided me in the job of chairman.

During this time, Jack was confronted with difficult personnel issues involving both staff and lay leader ship, which he handled with wisdom and diplomacy.

A search committee was formed to recommend a permanent replacement for Keithley, made up of current and former chair men of the board. Jack’s name climbed to the top quickly and by unanimous action of the search committee and the HPBA board of directors, Jack was select ed as the president of HPBA. Jack and I traveled to the different affiliates to introduce Jack as the new president. He spoke with confidence as he shared his vision and plan for the association. But more importantly, he listened with care and attention as people shared with him. Throughout his tenure as president and CEO, Jack has guided the association through difficult challenges from government regulations and restrictions, tightening financial resources and changes in staff and lay leadership. His foresight and creativity kept the association vital and valuable to the industry. His ability to work with retailers, distributors, sales reps, and manufac turers, with their varying interests and concerns, has kept a very diverse association working for all members. All through his years of service as president and CEO, I have had the privilege of continuing to work with Jack, but even more, I have had the honor to call him my friend. Besides our love for the industry we serve, Jack and I share our interest and love for family, his tory, and baseball.”

Unless Jack decides to pull a “Tom Brady” and unretire (better check with your family first), all of us in the industry wish Jack much contin ued success and joy in all of his endeavors. As well as a big and heartfelt, Thank You!

MUST READS ∂

A New Jersey hearth store offers free detailed design drawings to assist customers in visual izing their projects before they purchase.

Deep Roots, p. 32 ∑

Despite a competitive market in Southern California, this family patio furniture retailer continues to expand and flourish.

West Coast Vibes, p. 42

Danver’s new Cosmopolitan Cooking Table offers an innovative induction technology for small spaces where a grill may not be practical.

The Danver Difference, p. 50 π

Business is brisk for Wittus as customers seek the warmth of contemporary European-style stoves and fireplaces.

Creative Comforts, p. 56

Tony Ramos

Jack Goldman

Wittus’ Tatiana hanging fireplace

LEAN & MEAN

We offer expertise. We are geo graphically located in a part of California with a Mediterranean climate, which can be both a blessing and a curse. The materi als we would advise for a home in Pismo Beach would not be the same as what we would recom mend for a home in say San Luis Obispo. Although they are within minutes of each other, they are two very distinct climates.

five core vignettes to display at all times. The vignettes are comprised of best-sellers for us and cover three main categories: conversa tion, dining, and fireside seating. Rather than offering 20 options, we offered five strong collections and stocked them. Instant gratification remains our best-selling tool.

PUBLISHER

Tony Ramos tramos@peninsula-media.com

MANAGING EDITOR

Carol Daus caroldaus@gmail.com

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Cherise Forno cheriseforno@gmail.com

ART DIRECTOR

Entrepreneurship may seem like a straightforward concept—take a risk and meet a need in the market—but what if the market is highly untapped? While it sounds like a dream for those seeking opportuni ty, it does pose a series of unex pected challenges you may not have imagined.

Three years ago, I was approached by the CEO and president of Chap arral Pavers, Jonathan Araya and Fernando Martinez, owners of the concierge landscaping company on the Central Coast of California. The vision was to offer high style and heir loom-quality outdoor furnishings on the Central Coast, while providing the same level of service they offer their landscaping clients.

When opening the doors of The Cozy Patio, we immediately faced two challenges. The first was creat ing a formula that would allow us to compete with large and online retailers without playing the game of cat and mouse. The second issue was overcoming a deep stigma in the local market about what patio furniture should be and cost.

The first challenge gave rise to our motto: “Lean and mean.” We realized early on that being smaller than local goliath retailers meant we could be nimbler than them. We realized we could use big-box store pitfalls to our advantage. A prime example would be that you can walk into a mega hardware store and find a dozen sprockets but try finding someone to show you which sprocket is right for you. That is where we thrive.

We don’t just offer furnishings.

The first question we ask when meeting a client for the first time: Where is your home? This also helps narrow down the selection tremendously, which can be very overwhelming to people who have never given much thought to this. Pairing the right materials with the climate helps ensure longevity and long-term satisfaction for our clients. If it’s one thing corporations don’t have, it’s time, and we are willing to play the long game.

Our approach is not all technical, however. We offer large-chain, high-style furnishings with the perks of shopping local businesses. This makes people feel good about their buying decision because ultimately people do want to shop and sup port local but also want the brand ed style they see in magazines.

I study what large retailers are displaying and advertising because ultimately that is what the general population will see. I find a way to take those concepts and do it bet ter. More importantly, I find a way to tailor it to the local demographic. We take advantage of the advertis ing machine large retailers are and use it as free advertising for us. People will inevitably come in look ing for something they saw in an ad, and we’ll be ready to meet them with in-stock options.

Which brings up the second part of our formula. Having in-stock options was our saving grace dur ing the economic and supply chain roller coaster we all experienced.

Being a boutique business means we simply don’t have the floor space to showcase miles of prod uct, but we found we didn’t need to. Using market research, I curated

The first challenge we met was more practical while the second one was more philosophical. The fact that the only real shopping options for patio furniture in our market was big-box stores for decades meant we had some seri ous brainwashing to undo. It became common practice for locals to buy cheap, get whatever use you could out of it, then dump it. This made no sense to Fernando and Jonathan. We live on the Central Coast of California where we spend our lives outside, yet we buy junk to sit on?

During the first couple of years, people would come in and get sticker shock. So we spent a lot of time educating the public on the materials and illustrating what proper patio furniture is. The strongest point to drive is easy and quantifiable by doing the math. That $800 seven-piece dining set at the hardware store seems like a great value, but when you consider that it wasn’t designed to last more than a season, then it actually becomes very expensive.

I describe our store as “retail with muscle.” Although we are a retailer, because our sister compa ny is a landscaping one, we can offer services other retailers can’t, such as installing gas lines, hooking up fire pits, installing shade and pri vacy products, and offering in-patio consultations—services that are all too risky for larger retailers to take on. Today, we offer full design, build, and furnish services. We look for new ways to be a resource to our community as well as other industry partners.

Alex Flores is the designer and lead mer chandiser of The Cozy Patio in Arroyo Grande, California.

Cassandra Estes cassestes1968@gmail.com

COPY EDITOR

John Nalley

CONTRIBUTORS

Maura Keller

Kimberly Rodgers

Laurie Rudd Sharon Sanders Larry Thomas Greg Thompson

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Whitney Carrier

BUSINESS MANAGER

Susan Razetto

CEO & PRESIDENT

Tony Ramos

CORPORATE OFFICE

Peninsula Media

21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 500 Torrance, CA 90503 (310) 792-7448 (310) 792-7449/Fax www.patioandhearthproductsreport.com

Tony Ramos

Peninsula Media

21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 500 Torrance, CA 90503 (310) 792-7448 (310) 792-7449/Fax (310) 968-3962/Cell tramos@peninsula-media.com

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HPC Fire Inspired Expands Again With New R&D Center INDUSTRY NEWS

“What truly sets HPC’s fire designs apart from other brands is the cut ting-edge technology that elevates the customer experience,” says HPC CEO, Sean Steimle, as the leading gas fire pit manufacturer invests in a new R&D Center.

HPC’s Center of Excellence for Innovation and Education was introduced with a grand opening in October. The new building will be a dedicated 13,000-square-foot CSA certification facility. It will have a state-of-the-art training, R&D, and education amenities.

The R&D investment will expand capabilities for development of new technology and products, Steimle says. “HPC’s legacy of technological innovation spans more than four decades, starting in 1975 when the

company was born.”

In the last five years, HPC has ramped up its engineering team to launch game-changing technologies such as the “HPC Fire One” smart app integration with augmented reality, 3D installation, and Bluetooth operations. The new R&D center will provide the capac ity and tools to launch the next generation of projects such as the new SmartArc, universal gas orifice, and home automation.

The company will also be expand ing its capabilities for training and edu cation. The new training center will host customers, and the center will dis play the latest products and technolo gy. Bolstering the training and educa tion continues to strengthen the HPC partnership with its customers.

HPC, based in Dayton, Ohio, is the leading manufacturer of gas fire features and fire-and-water features for residential and commercial appli

cations. Its products are available through hundreds of specialty retailers and select online merchants. HPC Fire Inspired – hpcfire.com.

Elmira Stove Works Debuts New Website and Visualizers

Elmira Stove Works, a leading manu facturer of premium vintage-style appliances and wood-burning cook stoves, has launched a dynamic new website featuring state-of-the-art interactive visualizers for each of its appliance lines. The completely reimagined site, elmirastoveworks.com, was devel oped to better meet the needs of design professionals and homeown ers seeking an innovative experience in the kitchen design process.

“Audiences are using our appli ances in ways that transcend vin tage, going beyond nostalgia and into design and lifestyle themes that are altogether new,” says Tony Dowling, vice president of sales and marketing. “Designers and homeowners are integrating our appliances into a growing array of contemporary settings that include cottage, coastal, and mod ern farmhouse themes. The web site’s intuitive navigation, respon sive design, and streamlined per formance complement how the Elmira brand has evolved in contin uing to lead the kitchen design marketplace.”

Featuring a refreshing, modern look and enhanced browsing experi ence, the site allows visitors to experi ence Elmira’s products by collec tion—Heritage, Northstar, and Fireview—on dedicated landing pages that demonstrate all available options and customizations. Dimensions, specifications, and pric ing details are easily accessible, and the viewer can click on a “Color” tab to interactively explore the many color highlights that continue to be a leading hallmark for Elmira’s lines. A comprehensive inspiration gallery showcases the brand’s appliances in a variety of real-world settings.

The site’s new visualizer—an immersive tool that lets participants build, save, and share their dream kitchen designs—is unparalleled in the industry. Users simply choose their desired appliances, colors, fin ishes, and options, and then select from an array of on-trend cabinet and flooring finishes to complete their kitchen. A detailed price estimate for the appliance package is provided with the design, which can be archived for future reference. Thousands of variations in room set

tings and features are possible.

A dedicated portal for dealers pro vides access to marketing materials and promotional information while a button at the top of the homepage allows visitors to book a Zoom video call at the Elmira showroom. To streamline the decision-making process, Elmira dealers can leverage the Visualizer to access updated appliance packages and prices for their customers, while they are together in the showroom.

“Our primary goal with the new website is to provide designers and homeowners with the information and inspiration they need to create kitchen appliance solutions that reflect their individual style,” Dowling

says. “It was paramount that the site not only be simple to navigate but also be visually engaging, allowing visitors to discover the full range of options in a one-of-a-kind interactive journey. We are excited to unveil this unique experience to the industry.”

Through the new website, Visualizer, and branding, Elmira Stove Works is propelling forward the brand’s role as an appliance industry innovator, style guide, and solutions expert. From its inception almost a half-century ago, Elmira has been at the forefront of integrating the latest appliance technology into timeless designs—for distinctive kitchens that add character. To view the website, visit elmirastoveworks.com.

HPC’s new R&D Innovation and Education Center

The homepage of Elmira Stove Works’ updated website

The Perfect Combination

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Sunbrella Introduces Inherently Fire-Retardant Shade Fabric

As commercial projects increasingly require fire-retar dant materials, Sunbrella unveils Sunbrella Exceed FR, an inherently fire-retardant and flame-resistant shade fabric that offers top FR performance while still deliver ing the same elevated appearance and tactile qualities of woven Sunbrella shade fabrics.

Professionals can feel confident specifying Exceed FR because it has passed and complies with a total of 12 FR tests and certifications, including NFPA 705, California Title 19, NFPA 701, and CPAI-84. Exceed FR is further backed by the industry’s most comprehensive warranty, including labor costs, and is compatible with the Sunbrella Graphics System, pro viding customers limitless options for custom logos

and other designs across a variety of commercial shade structures.

“We’re excited to expand our offering of fabric solutions for com mercial shade projects to include this inherently FR option,” said Kirk Fitzsimmons, director of industrial sales at Sunbrella. “Fabricators, architects, and business owners now have an FR offering they can trust with the support, war ranty, and brand expectations that have defined Sunbrella for decades.”

In addition to best-in-class FR performance, Exceed FR offers superior sun protection with a UPF 50+ rat ing, blocking 98% of UV rays. The fabric is bleach-

cleanable and resistant to mold, mildew, dirt, stains, and fading. As with all Sunbrella shade fabrics, Exceed FR is water- and oil-repellant, while still being breathable to create a pleasant and comfortable space below.

Exceed FR will be available beginning January 2023 in four versatile colors: Black, Captain Navy, Forest Green, and Jockey Red. For more information, visit Commercial.Sunbrella.com.

New Additions to the Sunbrella Shade Collection

Sunbrella is introducing its updated Sunbrella Shade Collection, including 17 new additions. The offering is designed to help create calming outdoor oases that emanate visual softness and an air of relaxation by bal ancing soothing colors with dynamic neutrals.

New standout patterns include:

Paxton – A nuanced take on the traditional bar stripe, this timeless pattern offers both visual and tactile texture and is available in three neutral colorways.

Marco – Available in four colorways, this elevated stripe was inspired by the tweed and heathered materi als of men’s suiting and features a softer approach to stripes that evokes movement and complements a wide range of exterior settings.

Hogan – A new textural solid with a faux slub weave that creates peaks and valleys, producing dynamic visual interest. Hogan elevates outdoor spaces with a range of rich hues balanced by versatile neutrals and is available in seven colorways.

To learn more about the new additions to the Sunbrella Shade Collection and find a local fabricator, visit Sunbrella.com.

Exceed FR in Forest Green and Captain Navy

Exceed FR in Forest Green and Captain Navy

Lee

George Speicher, CoFounder of AEI Corporation, Passes Away

George F. Speicher, a partner at AEI Corporation and longtime industry veteran, passed away on Aug. 23, 2022. Shortly after he retired from AEI Corporation in 2020, George fought a coura geous battle with pancreatic cancer.

A celebration of life memorial service was held for George on Sept. 30, 2022, in Santa Ana, California, where family, friends and co-workers recounted George’s love of family and friends, his commitment and dedication to AEI Corporation and its employees; his passion for the hearth, patio, and barbecue industry; and his servant’s heart.

Speicher was born Aug. 11, 1949, in GarmischPartenkirchen, Germany, a ski resort in the Bavarian Alps. When he was 4 years old, he came to America and settled in Altadena, California. His parents and siblings eventually settled in Pasadena, in Hastings Ranch.

In 1971, the graduate of San Diego State University joined AEI Corporation, a distributor of outdoor heating and grilling products. He eventually became co-owner of the company with Pete Arnold in 1982. George helped grow the company and was instrumental in moving AEI Corporation to becom ing a significant partner to Infrared Dynamics and Infratech, as well as a manufacturer of gas logs, grills, and patio heaters. George leaves behind his beloved wife, Barbara; his son Kevin; his two daughters, Kim and Katie; and two grandsons, Cole and Daniel. An industry leader summed it up well: “A great patriarch of AEI and the industry has left us.”

AEI Corporation Expands Premium Heating Solutions with SunStar Glass Heaters

ICFA Nets $25,500 for City of Hope at Casual Market Chicago

Through three fundraising activities hosted at Casual Market Chicago in July, the International Casual Furnishings Association received donations totaling $25,500 for City of Hope, the association’s philanthropy partner. City of Hope is the renowned Duarte, California-based research and treatment center for cancer, diabetes, and other lifethreatening diseases.

Participating in ICFA’s “Pink Out” activity during Casual Market Chicago in July were Angela Kolb and Elaine Smith, Elaine Smith Inc.; Eli Hymer, Gasper Home & Garden Showplace; and Zachary Hertlein, Elaine Smith.

nificant portion of registration fees from its Retail Seminar and tickets for its Awards Gala to the City of Hope fundraising effort.

On opening day, most members responded to a promotional ICFA social media invitation to #PACK OURPINK with an abundance of pink clothing as the wardrobe color of the day. Intended to raise aware ness of breast cancer, the group demonstrated sup port of today’s fighters, survivors, and those remem bered. Many attendees made contributions over $50 and received a pink stone bracelet or hot-pink pocket square as a gift.

During the first two days of the market, volunteers distributed pink ribbons and literature at a station along the main showroom corridor at theMART. TUUCI provided a hot-pink, fringed umbrella to enhance the station. In addition, ICFA directed a sig

Among upcoming ICFA fundraising activities for City of Hope is the Walk for Hope to raise awareness of women’s cancers scheduled on Nov. 6. Members are encouraged to join the ICFA Sunshine team— ourhope.cityofhope.org/

WalkforHope2022ICFASunshineTeam—and conduct a “walk” near their business for employees and friends.

Plans are also underway to salute Doug Sanicola, president of Outdoor Elegance in La Verne, California, who will be an honoree at City of Hope’s West Coast Golf & Tennis Tournament on June 12, 2023, at Coto de Caza Golf & Racquet Club in Southern California. Non-golfers are invited to join the group for dinner and a silent auction.

Milliken Décor Team Welcomes New Residential Design Team

Global textile manufacturer Milliken & Company is pleased to announce Maida Cameron, Linda Alley, and Elizabeth Stuart have joined the Textile Business’ décor team.

Maida Cameron will lead the team as director of design overseeing the styling of Milliken’s residential indoor and outdoor lines as well as the contract décor lines. Linda Alley, design manager, will collaborate with customers, research, report on market trends, and lead the design performance fabrics for the resi dential fabric market. As senior designer, Elizabeth Stuart is responsible for designing dobby, jacquard, and leno woven fabrics as well as circular knit fabrics for the contract, residential, and outdoor markets.

“We recently added nearly 100 years of design experience from industry veterans to our team and

continue to invest in growing our design capabili ties,” says Benji Bagwell, vice president of sales and marketing, décor for the Milliken Textile Business. “I look forward to seeing the future product develop ments and designs this talented team will produce.”

SunStar Heating Products Inc., a Charlotte, North Carolina, manufacturer of gas-fired heating equipment, is adding a new line of patio heaters. These are designed for restaurants and others in the hospitality industry but are also suitable for apartments, condominiums, and individual residential homeowners. These heaters will

be sold by AEI Corporation, an industry-leading out door grill and heating company. AEI is expanding on its tradition of providing the best and most innovative patio cooking and heating products to residential and commercial customers.

“We are excited to expand our premium lineup of comfort heating solutions with the addition of SunStar Glass Infrared Heaters. Proudly made in the USA, these models represent the heritage of a partnership built on value, high quality, and innovation to the mar ketplace,” says Bryan Molina, vice president of AEI.

The new products are mountable radiant gas patio heaters. Unlike forced air heaters, these heaters warm surfaces, including chairs, tables, and people. They do this without expending energy to warm the air in between. It’s the same way the sun provides warmth.

This makes restaurant customers comfortable as soon as they sit down while saving the energy costs of warm ing the surrounding air. SunStar Glass heaters help a hospitality business make the most of its outdoor seating area during the cooler months. They ensure a patio will be attractive even on the occasional chilly summer night.

George Speicher

SunStar Patio Heater

Milliken’s design team (from left to right): Elizabeth Stuart, Maida Cameron, Linda Alley

The heaters mount at the height of 7 to 10 feet. They come in a standard black model or heavy-duty marine grade stainless steel. There are models available for both liquid propane and for an existing natural gas source. They can be conveniently controlled with an optional wireless remote.

Both the standard SGL Glass heaters and the marine grade heaters boast the following features:

• High-temperature tinted SunStar GLASS, which is wind resistant up to 40 mph.

• Two-stage 35,000 to 24,000 BTU infrared heater with a 3-way position switch. The patio heaters can be operated at first stage on milder days and full power when the temperature drops on cooler days.

• An adjustable mounting kit allows for installations from 15 degrees to 60 degrees.

• CSA design certified Z83.19 & Z83.26.

• Optional heat shield available to reduce clearance to combustibles.

• Three-year limited warranty on the burner assembly.

• One-year limited warranty on controls.

In addition, the marine grade series is constructed of 316 stainless steel and specially designed for harsh environments.

Under light wind conditions, a single GLASS heater can cover an area of about 12 by 12 feet. They can be mounted in partially covered areas as well as open spaces. That makes them effective in bars, patios, veran das, vestibules, and outdoor smoking areas. Call (949) 474-3070 or visit aeicorporation.com to find out more.

Martha Stewart Announces Outdoor Furniture Partnership With POLYWOOD

Home design icon Martha Stewart is joining forces with POLYWOOD, the originator and longest-estab lished manufacturer of outdoor furniture made from sustainable materials including landfill- and oceanbound plastics, to launch a collection of relaxed heir loom-worthy designs made to last a lifetime.

“For over 30 years, the Martha Stewart brand has championed American makers,” says Kevin Sharkey, executive vice president, creative director, Martha Stewart at Marquee Brands. “POLYWOOD echoes that same inspiration, innovation, and homegrown ethos that we have always strived to celebrate. The Martha Stewart by POLYWOOD Collection com bines beauty with quality.”

The Martha Stewart by POLYWOOD line features a full assortment of timeless, all-weather outdoor furniture, debuting this October with the Chinoiserie Collection, a robust line that includes dining, counter, bar chairs, and sets; lounge chairs, loveseats, sofas, ottomans, and sets; and porch favorites including rocking chairs, side, end, and coffee tables.

The Chinoiserie Collection offers outdoor lovers a choice of purposefully curated sets or the freedom to cre ate their own combinations from individual pieces. The bold yet timeless design aesthetic features graceful lines

and intricate lattice work that nod to Martha’s love of chi noiserie. This heirloom-quality collection includes signa ture pieces ranging from the Chinoiserie Rocking Chair from $399 to the Deep Seating Sofa starting at $1,899. All products include POLYWOOD’s industry-leading 20year warranty.

“We’re thrilled to partner with entertaining and lifestyle expert Martha Stewart on this new and exclusive collection,” says Doug Rassi, POLYWOOD founder and CEO. “Both Martha Stewart and POLYWOOD believe that the best spaces are brought to life with beautiful designs, family-friendly functionality, and American-made quality. She’s inspired generations to decorate with inno vation, taste, and practicality, a perfect match for the foun dation our brand has been built upon for over 30 years.”

To view the collection, visit polywood.com/ martha-stewart-by-polywood.

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Martha Stewart with pieces of the Chinoiserie Collection

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Our Professional Grade Collection of outdoor kitchen products stands alone in design and functionality.

All Grills, Burners, and Components feature 304 Commercial Grade Black Stainless Steel for hard-working durability.

The Ranch Pro Series feature 30", 36", and 42" grills in both built-in and cart styles.

Our realistic logs are cast from actual fallen trees found in Northern Arizona, guaranteeing our logs to be as close to the real thing as humanly possible. Real logs for real people.

We feature a multitude of log types, sizes, and styles, including our Jumbo Slim Arizona Weathered Oak 48” logset (pictured) for indoor and outdoor spaces alike.

From our logs to our vented and vent free burners, durability and design are unmatched.

S P OTL I GHT

Stove Season

Sales heat up as consumers shop for an economical and attractive alternative for warmth.

BY GREG THOMPSON

CONSUMERS ARE LOOKING FOR EFFICIENT

heating, and stove manufacturers have navigated a host of recent regulations to satisfy this demand. Like many companies, Blaze King Industries Inc. prepared for 2020 compliance requirements as early as 2014.

“Of course, when EPA added the first hour filter pull requirement, that

required retesting of all our wood prod ucts,” says Chris Neufeld, vice president at Blaze King. “We are now working toward the new FRM [Federal Reference Method] which will require all wood heaters to test with cordwood.”

Karen Smeltz, category director for the stove business unit at Hearth & Home Technologies, has thought a lot about stove trends, breaking them down into three components: cost savings, fuel choice, and style. The first component has lately been moti vated by price increases in oil, elec tric, and gas—with customers opting to add a stove to augment their tradi tional heating.

TOP: Linear Kassette 700 from Spartherm

LEFT: S50 Gas Stove, painted black, pole pedestal, black glass liner, Traditional Log Set from Enviro

BOTTOM RIGHT: Bari 8171 Stove from HearthStone

“This points to the reason wood and pellet stoves are in highest demand,” Smeltz says. “Certainly, wood is the most cost-effective way to heat if con sumers have their own wood, and most of the world already knows you can burn wood for heat. A surprising num ber of homeowners don’t know that you can heat with pellets.”

Traditionally, the demographic for wood burning has skewed toward

older consumers, but Nick Bauer, presi dent of Empire Comfort Systems Inc., notes that the push for renewable ener gy has also generated interest from younger consumers. “With younger consumers, we are also seeing the need for even greater convenience,” he says. “With that in mind, we are creating a product for a generation that is used to everything being at their fingertips.

This phenomenon is going to drive change even into an age-old technology such as wood-burning appliances.”

While the practical aspects of heat ing remain important to consumers, so too does the aesthetic. “Consumers are increasingly looking for more choice and customization options when it comes to wood or gas stoves,” says Kyle Grant, director of marketing at

Regency Fireplace Products. “With the rise of Instagram, Pinterest, and other visual image-sharing platforms, con sumers want to create a ‘look’ and they need a stove to help tie the room together. By offering more units, sizes, accessories, and finishings than ever before, Regency is poised to take advan tage of this trend and help consumers create the look of their dreams.”

TOP: Gateway 1700 from Empire Comfort Systems

MIDDLE LEFT: RV 100 Classic by Ravelli

MIDDLE RIGHT: Regency Classic F2450 Traditional Wood Stove

BOTTOM: The Vermont Castings

Dauntless wood stove from Hearth & Home Technologies

The nine companies represented in this issue’s spotlight cover all the bases: aesthetics, fuel choice, and price ranges from budget to luxury. As the weather turns cold, customers will be looking for options.

PACIFIC ENERGY FIREPLACE PRODUCTS LTD.

Solid fuel is the primary business at Pacific Energy Fireplace Products Ltd. (Duncan, British Columbia), a venera ble manufacturer known for its reliable catalytic-free heaters. “The Super Series firebox has been a strong seller for 25 years and overall one of the best-selling solid fuel appliances in the market,” says Cory Iversen, vice president of sales and marketing and a 35-year Pacific Energy veteran. “We have expanded on that concept to include the Vista, Summit, and Neo series of products, and they have all become very successful.”

Pacific Energy is looking to build on its momentum with several products ready to launch in the gas and solid fuel categories, but Iversen concedes that the “current environment” is making that difficult. “Just keeping up with demand for our current products is proving to be a substantial challenge,” he says. “We will keep these in our back pocket for a more suitable time.”

A recent majority purchase from a Swedish com pany called NIBE is something that may improve the situation. Iversen describes the purchase as “a very good fit for us as they have a strong solid fuel back ground.” NIBE also has a good track record of sup porting existing operations while looking for growth opportunities. “This fits very well with our current strategies,” Iversen says. “We look forward to the next few years and what can be accomplished in this new environment.”

Company officials are noticing a return to func tion over style, which Iversen says may be due to a more “off-grid” mentality, likely due to “a mix of COVID, geopolitics, and inflation.” He adds: “Solid fuel has been an exceptionally strong market for the last few years. Many factors are at play—global demand, the reduction of certified products on the market due to the NSPS 2020 standard, oil prices, and politics are all contributing.”

BLAZE KING INDUSTRIES INC.

Designers at Blaze King Industries Inc. (Walla Walla, Washington) have spent the past two seasons refining their current product line and preparing to launch an expansion of the Clarity gas product line at

TOP

TOP

BOTTOM

BOTTOM RIGHT: The Sirocco 25 from Blaze King is a flush wood-burning insert that features a 2.3 cu/ft firebox and HHV efficiency of 77%, making it eligible for the 25D and 25C Federal Tax Credits.

HPBExpo. Meanwhile, the existing wood stoves and inserts have proven to be hot sellers. “With a limited number of wood-burning inserts qualifying for the 25D Tax Credit, our inserts have seen unprecedented demand,” says Chris Neufeld, vice president.

The 25D Tax Credit that HPBA worked hard to get into place has stimulated wood stove and wood insert sales. Neufeld also contends that the pandemic motivated homeowners to invest in the security of their homes and “being able to provide warmth for their families was a major influence.” Right now, he says, “the cost of heating oil and other forms of heating is driving homeowners to look into heating with wood.”

Neufeld has been a slight increase in demand for wood stoves that have a more contemporary or European appearance. “Larger fireboxes have also been more in demand as consumers are looking for larger wood heaters to provide more of their home heating needs,” he says. “This is clearly tied to the increased costs of heating with oil or other fuels.”

Neufeld sees buying decisions coming down to a few key factors: efficiency, burn times, and load capacity and depth of firebox, which helps to mini mize removal of ashes. Also key to the buying deci sion is the ability to source dry, seasoned cordwood for the coming winter.

REGENCY FIREPLACE PRODUCTS

The team of engineers at Regency Fireplace Products (Delta, British Columbia) has worked hard to produce catalytic and non-catalytic 2020 NSPS-certified units. The result is an EPA-certified lineup of stoves that are suited to every type of wood burner—from casual users to people heating their homes year-round.

Regency’s stove sales have remained strong over the last few years. As with most fireplace and stove cate gories, they received a strong boost during 2020/2021 from increased spending on home renovations, and that trend appears to be continuing in 2022.

“As we see other costs rising due to inflation, consumers are increasingly looking to save on heating costs,” Grant says. “With the next gen eration of 2020 NSPS-certified stoves, they get longer burn times and improved efficiencies that lead them to replace older stoves with modern units. The U.S. biomass tax rebate is helping to get more customers to replace older wood stoves with modern EPA-certified highefficiency models.”

After discussions with customers and dealers, Grant and his team believe that a blend of product features helps to create a popular stove, specifically

LEFT: Kaminkassette 700 from Spartherm

RIGHT: Super Classic LE Catalytic-free wood stove with porcelain enamel cladding in Sunset Red, nickel finished door, legs, and trivet from Pacific Energy

LEFT: Westley Cast Iron Gas Stove with a painted black finish from Enviro

TOP

MIDDLE: The Princess 29 from Blaze King offers a 2.6 cu/ft firebox that is 6” deep from the brick to the door opening, resulting in fewer ash-cleaning intervals. The insert qualifies for the 25D and 25C Federal tax credits with a 75% HHV efficiency.

BOTTOM: The Harman Absolute43 Pellet Stove from Hearth & Home Technologies

fuel efficiency, ease of use, burn time, aesthetics, and easy maintenance. Education is important for home owners when buying and using 2020 EPA-approved wood stoves because the operation, start-up time, and burn rates will vary compared to older models.

“Regency engineers have worked tirelessly to create hybrid-catalytic and non-catalytic units that meet the 2020 NSPS regulations,” Grant says. “As a result of extensive testing and tweaking, we were able to reconfigure many existing products to meet the 2020 guidelines as well and consider ably expand our product line.”

ENVIRO FIREPLACES

2021 was a big year for product launches at Enviro Fireplaces (Victoria, British Columbia). The company released the S50, a gas stove sporting 180-degree curved glass. “Paired with our hand carved/designed traditional and Birch log sets, this stove brings a stunning look to any home,” says Jamie Yousief, marketing manager. “Stay tuned for 2023, where we will be offering new ways to show off the S50 as well as amazing new products.”

Recent changes have allowed Enviro to penetrate the builder mar ket and Yousief reveals that Enviro’s best-selling C-series linear units are ripe for an upgrade. “Keep an eye out for a highly requested addition to the C-series lineup coming in 2023,” Yousief says. “Over the last couple years, the Enviro team has grown in size and in experience, which has allowed us to develop, grow, and keep up with the high demand for our products.”

Enviro’s progress correlates with the increasing popularity of stoves over time, with Yousief point ing out that pellet stoves, in particular, are doing well. “We are showing a lot of growth in the pellet market which, paired with our amazing pellet burn technology, we can likely attribute to all of our pel let stoves being EPA approved,” Yousief says. “Because our stoves pass certain rigorous environ mental requirements, anyone in the U.S. who pur

chases our pellet stoves can receive a $1,000 tax refund.”

Maximizing efficiency remains a primary concern among customers. “When look ing at pellet stoves, we find it is much more important that the customer get something efficient that will help them make the most out of their fuel,” Yousief says. “All Enviro gas stoves are built with the same mindset as our pellet stoves: efficiency and aesthetics. We find that gas stove customers usually care about how a gas stove looks more than the pellet stove customer.”

SPARTHERM

The full range of EPA-certified stove units (dubbed the Gemuetlichkeit range) from Spartherm (Melle, Germany) continues to do well in Canada and the United States. According to Markus Aumann, a 10year Spartherm veteran who heads up international sales, the full Gemuetlichkeit range includes inserts, zero-clearance fireplaces, and free-standing stoves.

“This range is available in two sizes and the product range in total is six units,” Aumann says. “The range has done very well due to its straight lines and large open fire view—and the design is contemporary. The products appeal to a segment of the market that would like a product that is new in design and a product that is a part of the design of the house while it helps to create an atmosphere.”

The non-catalytic units “burn clean” with a “great flame pattern” that Aumann confirms are easy to install, easy to burn, and feature a “design to comple ment a more stylish décor.” It’s all part of an inten tional move toward design units with clear fire views and units that are a central part of the home’s design.

Customers are increasingly paying attention to fuel sources and Aumann sees distinct trends. “There seems to be a move toward burning wood for a few reasons,” he says. “The range of wood-burning fires have remained traditional and static for many years. There are also factors that promote the burning of wood such as the regulations that assure that the products burn as cleanly as possible. Uncertainty about the costs of other fuels has also created a desire to have a product that is easier to fuel—and wood is readily available.”

EMPIRE COMFORT SYSTEMS

INC. The Gateway series of free-standing stoves con tinues to be a top seller in the wood category for Empire Comfort Systems Inc. (Bellville, Illinois). Nick Bauer, president, attributes the continued success to higher heating costs, which “always tend to drive consumers back to the savings of burning wood.” He adds, “Rising fuel costs, tax credits, and the continued push for renewable energy are all factors that we are seeing as driving the demand for stove sales.”

The last product launch at Empire was the St. Clair line of wood-burning fireplaces in 2020. While

TOP LEFT: Gateway 3500 from Empire Comfort Systems

RIGHT: Neo 2.5 LE Catalytic-free wood stove with stainless steel side panels from Pacific Energy

company officials have dedicated the last two years honing the manufacturing process for existing product lines, new models are in the pipeline and Bauer pre dicts new launches in 2023.

Perhaps hinting at what may be in store, Bauer points out: “In the stove mar ket, we continue to see traditional styles be more popular than contemporary. This is in contrast to the fireplace trends we have seen over the last few years.”

Style preferences ebb and flow, but officials at Empire have made a point to stick to crucial basics. “When we launched the Empire Stove brand, we made sure two things would be at the center of all of the products that we designed,” Bauer says. “The first is ease of use. The end user should be able to easily control their units with a single control. The second is quality. We want ed to provide a quality product that would last for generations.”

HEARTH & HOME TECHNOLOGIES

Karen Smeltz, category director for the stove business unit at Hearth & Home Technologies (Lakeville, Minnesota), has noticed a trend online, particularly on Pinterest and in interior design arti cles. “You’ll see a relentless focus on well-being, nature, and nostalgia,” she says. “All of these are met by adding fire features to homes for warmth and ambiance. That feeling of nostalgia also gives way to the design styles of mixing old with new.”

The mix of style trends means a stove or insert can be creatively added for a purposeful look. “It no longer has to be that black thing in the corner,” Smeltz adds. “Incorporation of flame as warmth and well-being is a win-win for all consumers and our industry.”

In 2022, Hearth & Home Technologies launched six new products, including the Quadra-Fire brand with two new pellet stoves, a small wood insert, and a gas stove. The Quadra-Fire Outfitter Series replaces the CAB50 and PS35 with a new look, better con trols, better price, and qualifies for the tax credit.

“We created these entry-level products to give our trade partners the ability to sell an array of basic, mid-range, and premium pellet products within the HHT brands,” Smeltz says. “The Quadra-Fire Expedition I wood insert was designed to fit into those small fireplace openings while being super easy to use. And lastly, the Excursion II Gas Stove has a huge, unobstructed viewing area with heating per formance that the Quadra-Fire is known for.”

Stove sales have been strong over the last couple of years and Smeltz predicts that the economic and infla tionary challenges in North America will help main tain that strength through 2022. “Hearth customers who are purchasing to save on their oil or electric bill are willing to put in a bit of effort for the cost savings, so emptying ashes on a wood stove or scraping a burn pot on a pellet are not deterring customers.”

HEARTHSTONE

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products (Morrisville, Vermont) prides itself on continual innovation and is not content with merely renaming units or splashing on a new finish. “When we intro duce a new model of an existing stove moniker, we don’t just produce the same stove with a new EPA certificate,” says Joe Burns, president. “We reengi neer with new technologies, make improvements based on customer feedback, and add features that were not available on previous models.”

As an example, the Bari by HASE is back in the product lineup. The Bari is a modern cylindrical stove that rotates 180 degrees so users can enjoy the heat and view of the fire from virtually anywhere in the room. The unit is available in steel and four stock ceramic colors and textures. “The Bari also incorporates our TruHybrid technology,” Burns says, “and with a 76% HHV efficiency rating, it qualifies for the 25D tax credit.”

The company’s Clydesdale woodstove insert and Mansfield wood stove are once again part of the product lineup. On the surface, they look like previous models but the inside is all new and incorporates HearthStone TruHybrid technology. “The Clydesdale is now lined with soapstone, so it provides even heat and long burn times that peo

ple are accustomed to with all our soapstone stoves,” Burns says. “The Mansfield now has a 6-inch flue and is able to be top or rear vented. With an HHV efficiency rating of 79% and 78% respectively, both qualify for the 25D tax credit.”

Well before the 2020 NSPS went into effect, HearthStone developed its now familiar HearthStone TruHybrid Technology to substantially reduce emissions and increase efficiencies. “At the core of this technology, our stoves use a primary, secondary, and tertiary combustion system,” Burns says. “The real differentiator is how and where we incorporate these combustion stages.”

THE VULCAN GROUP LLC

As a relatively new importer and distributor, The Vulcan Group (TVG) LLC (Plantsville, Connecticut) has quickly spread across the U.S. and Canada. The company originally started with Ravelli, but Hoxter is the newest and latest line that officials have brought into North America.

The HAKA 89/72 by Hoxter has sold particular ly well and Vulcan’s Sean Michanczyk attributes the strong sales to an ample flame view—a feature that customers increasingly want. “This is Hoxter’s largest traditional rectangle view,” he says. “It’s the largest glass view of any of the competitors that are out there, and it has a higher heat output than any competitor as well.”

Over the past year, TVG created a mobile burn ing unit within a trailer that can be taken to trade shows. “It showcases two of the most popular Hoxters that are permanently mounted in the trail er,” says Bruno Ferreira, director of operations. “As we’ve grown, we’ve added probably another 5,000 square feet of warehousing as well just to make sure we can continue a flow of product.”

TVG has focused primarily on the “high tech hearth” category, which Ferreira describes as prod ucts that are outside of the norm and have a different kind of spin and/or higher efficiency. “With that comes obviously a learning curve, and our dealers really like the fact that we offer training,” he says. “We’re not looking to just ship a bunch of product out to dealers and never hear from them again. We want to make sure that they’re prepared to not only install it and service it, but also to speak eloquently and professionally about it. We offer training on sales, installation, and service to all our dealers.”

TOP LEFT: Ecka 51/51/51 by Hoxter

SEEK ING S TA BIL I TY

BY LARRY THOMAS

THE LINGERING EFFECTS OF

THE PANDEMIC, which included every thing from inflation to higher interest rates, has resulted in a 2022 that was slightly less insane than 2021 for retailers of casual furniture, hearth, and grilling products.

Just don’t call it a normal year.

There were still a host of supply chain issues— although lead times from many manufacturers began a downward trend—and inventories grew to uncomfortably high levels as orders placed in 2021 arrived throughout 2022.

The last normal year—if such a thing exists— was 2019, the last full pre-pandemic year, and a year that many retailers are using as a bench mark for 2022.

“For budgeting purposes … we’ve mostly ignored 2020 and 2021,” says Grant Henegan, president of Viridian, a five-store retailer based in Charlotte, North Carolina, which is in the process of changing its name from Firehouse Casual Living. “We’re really measuring ourselves against 2019 and saying that’s a more normal year.”

Fair enough, says Erik Mueller, president of Cincinnati-based Watson’s, an 18-store retail chain specializing in casual furniture and pool products. But that doesn’t hide the reality that consumer demand softened in 2022 as some would-be customers directed their discretionary dollars away from home improvement projects.

“The way I like to describe it is that we have to go back and be professional salespeople again,” Mueller says. “During the peak of COVID, every body was just an order-taker, whether we liked it or not. “The customer’s attitude was ‘If you’ve got it, I’ll buy it.’”

That certainly isn’t their attitude any longer, and Mueller and other retailers say that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

“It certainly does appear that things have slowed down, but it’s still light years ahead of where it was in 2019,” says Jessica Salisbury, presi dent of Village Green Home & Garden, a twostore retailer in Rockford, Illinois, which special izes in casual furniture and garden products. “What we have to do now is make sure that our level of service is top-notch—better than ever— and that our prices are sharp.”

HEARTHS

Retailers who specialize in hearth products shared similar sentiments, even though supply chain issues in this category appear to have eased more quickly than other categories.

“Consumers are no longer buying at a frenzied, panicked pace,” says Pat O’Donnell, owner of Hearth and Home Inc. in Mount Prospect, Illinois. “Our sales are flat compared to our all-time records of 2021.” But when inflationary measures such as price increases and shipping surcharges are removed from the equation, sales are probably off about 10%, he explains.

“The hearth category is still relatively strong due to the fact that we do our own installation and can get the job done,” O’Donnell says. “And the category focuses on the interior ‘heart’ of the home, so if con sumers want to update their main living area, a fire place surely will remain an integral part of most plans.”

Jodie Matthiesen, president of Hubert’s Fireplaces in Ottawa, agrees, noting that demand in her market decreased slightly in the spring and summer months, but has ramped up again during the peak fall sales months. Wood-burning stoves and fireplaces are especially popular, she adds.

“As new construction continues to be strong in our area, we are getting more inquiries from new designers, architects, and builders,” Matthiesen says. “We are still seeing some delays in getting certain

products and parts, but overall lead times have been greatly reduced.”

But as her store gradually returns to a more “nor mal” sales pattern, Matthiesen said one major pan demic-related change in her business model will remain in place—working exclusively by appointment.

“It has been working really well for us and we intend to continue this into the future,” she says. “I enjoy being able to take the time with each client and thoroughly discuss plans, ideas, and options without interruption, and I feel (customers) appre ciate it as well. I’ve not had any major complaints from any of our clients.”

GRILLS

The grill business, by contrast, has been a bit of a mixed bag this year due to the lack of availability of certain products. O’Donnell, whose store sells grills in addition to hearth products and outdoor furniture, said some of his grill vendors were unable to ship him any products during the busy spring and summer months, but he has been able to restock some inven tory more recently in anticipation of a busier 2023.

“For me, the BBQ category is down due to the fact that consumers purchased this category in a big way in 2020 and 2021,” he says. “My feeling is that the market has become temporarily saturated, and we need to wait a few years for some of this to shake out.”

Retailers in the hearth, grill, and casual furniture industries survive another challenging year but anticipate many opportunities in 2023.

Grant Henegan

Erik Mueller

But at the higher end of the mar ket (think outdoor kitchens), there appears to have been no drop in demand this year and business is still strong, says Bill Reingruber, owner of BBQ Bill’s in Las Vegas.

Reingruber notes that 2022 sales are more than 20% ahead of 2021 and he’s not forecasting any sort of shortterm slowdown. He said his banner year currently was driven by California residents moving to Las Vegas in search of lower home prices, as well as an unusually “cool” July and August in the region.

He adds that the temperature topped 100 degrees only a handful of times during that period (it’s typically 100 to 115 degrees every day) and that spurred many people to replace exist ing grilling equipment or plan an entirely new outdoor kitchen, which costs $10,000 and up. “It’s very rare to be that cool in Vegas in July and August, and I think that really helped us because people didn’t feel like they had to stay indoors all the time,” Reingruber says.

So what’s the hottest product (pun intended) for these outdoor kitchens? According to Reingruber, the answer is pizza ovens. That’s right. Pizza ovens.

He says the best ones are made of brick and have an arched design that allows heat to circulate above and below the pizza evenly. Using wood as a fuel and reaching temperatures of up to 900 degrees, a pizza can be cooked in two to three minutes. “There’s something about pizza ovens that are fun. I get it,” Reingruber says, noting that he has one at his home. “I understand why people want them.”

Prices start at about $3,500, but he says he designed a brick model of his own to sell to local customers, and “nobody blinked” at the $10,000 price tag. “I’m going to try to market them (outside the Vegas area) next year,” he says. “I want to get in touch with a few sales reps that I know and see if they can move them.”

Aside from pizza ovens, Reingruber says pellet grills remain popular with his customers, and more recently, flat-top griddles have drawn considerable inter est. “I’m also doing a good business with fire pits,” he adds. “It’s a social thing. It’s kind of tribal, and it’s mes merizing to sit around a fire and talk.”

OUTDOOR FURNITURE

For outdoor furniture retailers, seating products made of aluminum, teak, and

composite materials have paced sales in 2022—in many cases at the expense of wicker, rattan, and other woven products. But supply chain issues crimped sales of just about every type of furniture early in the year because

many goods were simply not available. And as the busy spring and summer selling season was ending, orders began shipping en masse, which loaded up retailers with inventory.

“We’re heavier on inventory than

I’d like to be,” says Salisbury of Village Green Home & Garden. “It’s definite ly something I kept in mind when I made my early buys for 2023.”

Mueller of Watson’s agrees, noting that his team is working diligently “to

“ The hearth category is still relatively strong due to the fact that we do our own installation and can get the job done. And the category focuses on the interior ‘heart’ of the home, so if consumers want to update their main living area, a fireplace surely will remain an integral part of most plans.”

—Pat O’Donnell

Jessica Salisbury

Pat O’Donnell

reduce it to a more normal level.” He adds, “Lead times are slowly decreas ing. They’re not anywhere back to prepandemic levels, but they are slowly getting better.”

While many casual furniture retailers say the buying frenzy during the pan demic eliminated much of the seasonali ty of the category, Mueller and Henegan both say the effect on their stores was minimal since they already were pro moting furniture sales year-round.

“Spring is our peak season, but we have always sold furniture year-round, and we show furniture year-round,” Henegan says. “In our market (the Carolinas), it’s less seasonal than peo ple think. Even after spring is over, people are still finishing homes and pools, and we probably sell more patio furniture than fireplaces November or December.”

Even though all of the Watson’s stores are in the Midwest, Mueller says his company has operated with a 12month sales model for years and will continue to do so. “We’ve consistently invested in expanding the season,” he says. “And we continue to aggressively promote our products well past the July/August time frame (the tradition al end of the selling season for nonSunbelt stores.)”

2023 FORECAST

Looking ahead to 2023, retailers say they are hesitant to project another blockbuster year—given economic fore casts calling for more inflation, a reces sion, or both—but most are predicting a solid, steady year that may be similar

to the last “normal” year in 2019.

Salisbury described herself as “cau tiously optimistic” about next year, while Mueller says he believes any recession will be short-lived.

“I think spending on the home may soften for a moment, but with that being said, I’m extremely bullish on investment in the home for the next 10 or 15 years,” he says, noting that millennials will be in their prime homebuying years during that time, and will need, among other things, furniture. “I think we’ve got a ton of upside for our industry for some time to come.”

For his part, O’Donnell, of Hearth and Home, says he believes next year will be fairly smooth sail ing once manufacturers iron out remaining supply chain problems and begin shipping goods on a timelier basis. But he also believes consumers’ heavy focus on their home, which began during the pandemic, will continue to weaken as people begin working from home less frequently.

“We can only hope that the para digm we saw in the way people have re-nested with their homes will con tinue,” O’Donnell says. “If it does, that will be good for the hearth, barbecue, and casual furniture categories.”

The biggest challenge next year, in Henegan’s opinion, could be deflation,

as prices could come down as shipping costs continue to decline. “That is going to be a challenge for people sit ting on all this old (higher cost) inven tory,” Henegan says. “And it will also be a challenge for commissioned sales people because they’re used to working off of higher, inflated numbers.”

One of Henegan’s principal goals for next year is to complete the transi tion to the Viridien name. He said the former name, Firehouse Casual Furniture, was confusing to consumers because most don’t associate “casual living” with patio furniture. (The retailer’s former owner picked the name after he added outdoor furniture to his fireplace shop.)

In addition, he said some con sumers confused the former name with Firehouse Subs, a prominent chain of sub shops that has several stores in Charlotte. “We decided to pick a generic name that wasn’t going to tie us to any particular product cate gory,” he says. “The new name is easy to say over the phone and our email address will be easier to remember.”

Name change aside, Henegan pre dicts that next year will be more similar to 2019 than either 2021 or 2022, as a gradual slowdown in demand contin ues. “But all of the reasons for buying furniture before the pandemic will still be there,” he says. “We don’t feel like the market is going to disappear.”

Jodie Matthiesen

Bill Reingruber

DEEPROOTS

New Jersey-based Alber’s Fireplaces has a long-standing reputation for providing quality fireplace solutions.

BY MAURA KELLER PHOTOS BY JOANNA BAJ PHOTOGRAPHY

When is the best time to open a hearth store?

For Mr. Alber, it was in 1976 after the oil embargo was initiated. He saw an opportunity in the stove and fireplace industry, and opened his first shop, Alber’s Fireplaces. Eventually, the company’s consumer base expanded and Alber added more products and services to the company’s new location in Bridgewater, New Jersey.

“Mr. Alber believed in the basic premise that high quali ty products and excellent customer service offer the best value for the customers and will build a loyal following,” says Gary Steck, general manager of Alber’s Fireplaces, which today is a teeming hearth business with an 8,000square-foot showroom in Green Brook, New Jersey.

With his background in metal fabrication, Alber eventually saw an opportunity to expand into custommade fireplace doors. After setting up a metal shop in the warehouse and designing the first custom doors, the name became a brand and started to grow rapidly. The hand-forged custom designs soon became an important line in addition to the regular fireplaces and stoves, and Alber’s expanded even more into accessories and decora tive products like mantels and facings.

In the mid-80s, Alber was looking to diversify the busi

TOP: Alber’s Fireplaces has served customers for nearly 50 years.

BOTTOM: Alber’s selects only the highest quality products as it expands its offerings.

ness even more and started to look for new products and inspiration in his native Germany and all over Europe. He introduced Boley custom-made fire places from Holland and Rüegg high-efficiency fire places from Switzerland to offer his customers unique choices at the highest quality.

NEW OWNERSHIP

As Steck explains, in 1986, Alber sold the business to his daughter and the current owner, Loyd Miller, who preserved the philosophy and kept growing the

business. Loyd became the sole owner in 2001.

Miller bought the remaining shares in 2001 and has been leading the company together with his wife through the years. While Jody handles the adminis tration and office management, Loyd was overseeing sales and installation. Over the years, this team has seen many challenges and weathered them as well as enjoyed a steady growth.

Today’s staff is a mix of long-time industry pro fessionals and newer additions who learned the hearth business at Alber’s. All of them love the chal

lenges and rewards the hearth industry brings as well as the daily contact with customers and the diverse products and services. The hearth business is hard to get into with all the technical background it requires, but it also has a creative side that is most rewarding.

Presenting a fireplace package to a customer that breaks down the “tech” and matches it with the decorative desires for a complete solution is the key to success.

“While offering the right product mix and presentation is most important, having the best people to work with is what makes the differ ence,” Miller says.

The Millers still actively lead the company and work a little less directly on the floor, but past cus tomers still come in asking to deal with them direct ly because they had such a good experience before. “With the new times came different chal lenges and the business transformed into a larger regional retail operation,” Steck says. “Although the blacksmith shop was discontinued, the dedication to

TOP: Alber’s 8,000-square-foot showroom helps people make the perfect hearth selection.

BOTTOM: (From left to right) Jody Miller, Loyd Miller, Brandi Lee, Dawn Hagen, Debbie Sconamiglio, and Gary Steck

the quality and craftmanship was kept.” New products had to be of the best quality and Alber’s concentrated on growth in custom work and unique solu tions. The original shop was closed in 2013, and the business moved to the cur rent, larger showroom about 5 miles away. The additional space allowed for more working displays and additional product lines. “Customers still remember our old location and share anecdotes about how they purchased the old fire

place back then,” Steck says.

CUSTOMER CONNECTION

Although the com pany has evolved and grown over time, the Alber’s Fireplaces team prides itself on their connection to cus tomers. They answer the phones personal ly and they stand behind the compa ny’s products. “Very often, we get cus tomers who purchased a door or fireplace 20 to 25 years ago and come back for an update,” Steck says. “We take time with every customer in the showroom or on the phone and answer all their questions to make sure they get the right product, and if we don’t have it, we refer them to somebody that can help them.”

In addition, the team focuses on their personal approach and the integrity with customers. The company doesn’t have

commissions and they don’t do hard sell ing. Rather, they want the customer to buy from Alber’s because the customer realizes that Alber’s gives them the best value and service.

“They like dealing with us. We try to offer them a great shopping experience, good variety to make an informed decision, and a turnkey option if they want to use our installation company to

Working displays in Alber’s showroom enhance people’s shopping experience.

Alber’s Fireplaces maintains a commitment to superior customer service.

get everything done in one step,” Steck says. “We will be competitive against internet companies, but we step back if it doesn’t make sense from a business stand point.”

Having been in business for nearly 50 years means Alber’s Fireplaces has a keen understanding of the his torical nature of hearth products and the subsequent consumer interests.

“We have seen a constant growth in electric fire places. Some customers just don’t want to go through the conversion to gas and want the easy and clean solution of an electric fireplace,” Steck says. “A new generation of customers may have never had a ‘real’ fireplace, and they are quite happy with the look and features of them. New introduc tions like biofuel units and vapor fireplaces are also starting to catch on. Customers see them in hotels or restaurants and want to replicate that look. Apartments and multistory older houses are also prime locations for these products.”

The installation of a TV above the fireplace also has been a consistent trend, and the introduction of coolwall systems has certainly helped make these installations much safer. It is also a great add-on sale to a project.

“We have also seen a steady increase in cool-glass fireplaces that offer more safety and comfort to the customers,” Steck says. Alber’s Fireplaces uses the “no-heat” feature of the Stellar line as a selling point so they can actually use the fireplace all year long since they don’t overheat the space. They are ideal for beach houses and as stunning focal points that are also a beautiful piece of art in addition to being a heating appliance.

And while gas logs are still going strong, Steck and his team have also increased sales in gas inserts for their efficiency and ease of operation. “With the cur rent rise in gas prices, we expect that efficiency will be more important in the consumer’s mind, and we have also seen increases in wood products after years of stagnation,” Steck says.

TODAY’S TRENDS

So, what about the overall design of their fireplace? What trends is Steck seeing take hold of con sumers’ interests?

The facing materials of today’s fireplaces are more natural stone and subtle finishes (honed marble instead of polished, tiles and concrete for brick, etc.). Mantels have cleaner lines, simple designs away from dentil moldings and stained oak, with painted finishes on top.

“Clean, simple-looking fireplaces are more popular than traditional styles,” Steck says. “Even modern fire places will have logs or other media rather than strict rib bon burners with glass. Birch logs have been a great seller but they are not everybody’s thing. And more people want to integrate the fireplaces into their home automa tion or at least have an app to operate it.”

Surprisingly, heating is not a big priority for most cus tomers. Rather, they want the fireplace to fit in with their TV than the other way around. “While they appre ciate the heat coming from it, it is not the primary driv er,” Steck says. “It is more about the visual.”

In addition to providing exceptionally designed and high-quality hearth products, Alber’s Fireplaces also offers free design drawings, which assist the customers in visualizing their project before they make the invest ment. “Most people can’t visualize what their fireplace is going to look like or the spatial consequences of an installation,” Steck says. “With the drawings, they can see it and make changes before it is built. The drawings also help our installation team to know what they are getting into, and the estimating for materials and labor comes all from that initial drawing.”

Along with the unique customer experiences that Alber’s offers, the company’s showroom is still the best tool to get people excited and help them make a deci sion about their hearth purchase. As Steck explains, most customers shop online and think they know what they want until they walk in the Alber’s Fireplaces showroom and see what is available and how it works.

“They find out that some of the features that they may have liked in their research are really not what they need and other things may become more impor tant to them,” he says. “We will send them clips from our display units about certain functions or different finishing options for their information, but it usually ends with them visiting and then they are convinced.”

Regardless of the nuances that surfaced because of COVID, including the supply chain issues and inperson shopping constraints, Alber’s Fireplaces expe rienced sales growth in 2020 and 2021.

“We expect sales to continue strong but maybe on a little slower level than last year. Even if there is a recession coming, we usually don’t see it for a while and, so far, this year has been strong,” Steck says. “Talking to other businesses and consumers, it’s a bit of a mixed picture. While some builders see a tougher environment and less business, others can’t keep up with the demand. I believe that if we can keep putting out a great product and services, our clients will keep coming in. They do have the resources to do their projects as long as they get what they want.”

StayingStrong

A New Jersey grill and hearth retailer reaps rewards by facing challenges head-on.

BY SHARON SANDERS PHOTOS BY JOANNA BAJ PHOTOGRAPHY

etail customer service isn’t what it was before the pandemic for many reasons from staffing to inventory shortages. The small things that customers once expected have become luxuries that retailers are attempting to regain. East Coast Energy Products (West Long Branch, New Jersey) has worked strategically to keep its service levels steady through the unpre dictability of the past few years—and has even emerged a better busi ness because of it. “If you are going to be a successful retailer, you have to be there for your customers when they need you,” says Chuck Hemwall, owner.

East Coast Energy Products was founded in 1989 as a natural gas distribution business and has evolved over the years to become one of the most respected hearth and grill specialty retailers in Monmouth County. Its strength has always been its ability to pivot when necessary and to evolve with the ups and downs of the market—as it has done over the past few years. “When we started the business, competition from big-box retailers wasn’t a concern, but everything changed, so we had to create a niche for ourselves. That’s when we first realized we

TOP: East Coast Energy Products has the largest grill selection in New Jersey.

always have to be on our toes.”

The store is known for its white glove service, which includes every thing from in-home consultations to service for both grills and hearth.

“What people are looking for when they come into our store is a better piece of equipment,” Hemwall says. “When they are paying that kind of money, they expect everything else that

goes with it—just like buying a luxury car. It’s the whole package.”

Education is at the top of the list when prospective buyers first stop by the store. “We have years of experience in the way we operate and how we serve our customers—people can sense that right away. We also have NFI Master Hearth Professional licensing to back up our expertise,” Hemwall says, adding

that the sales team has adopted a casual approach to sales. “People often come in asking for a specific grill brand because their neighbor has it, but we always try to open up a conversation to compare how different grills perform.”

It’s not uncommon for someone to walk in with a $500 budget and walk out with an engineered grill for $1,500 or more. “There’s nothing better than

seeing a customer discover the world of grilling for the first time. Many of them will come back to the store eager to learn new recipes, techniques, and just to chat.”

With over 50 grills on display, East Coast Energy Products has the largest barbecue selection in New Jersey. By far, the hottest pick right now is infrared. “Infrared elevates the grilling game significantly—it’s an exciting technology.” The idea of cooking with super high heat is a completely different school of thought than low-and-slow grilling. It sears food almost immediate ly and keeps it moist on the inside.

“People who entertain frequently love it because they can hustle food for a big party. It’s a favorite of charcoal purists because it brings traditional flavor to food, yet it’s quicker and less mess.”

Convection gas grills are still the mainstay of the store’s sales with infrared and hybrid (half convection, half infrared) coming in closely behind.

Service remains at the core of the complete experience at East Coast Energy Products. “When people are investing a lot of money for a product, they want to know that the store is

TOP: A vast assortment of grills attracts new and returning customers.

BOTTOM: Randy Ransom (left) and Chuck Hemwall

TOP:

going to take care of anything that goes wrong— and we have trained technicians to do the job,” Hemwall says.

When it comes to grills, the store services every thing it sells, as well as similar products (even if they weren’t purchased at the store). For hearth, it servic es only what it sells for liability reasons. “We charge the money we need to cover our costs and offer healthy warranties from our own company on installation and service to back up our work.”

The store offers regular service maintenance as well—cleaning fireplaces, gas logs, and grills. Overall, service is extremely profitable, as well as a good way to build trust and long-term relationships with customers. “I think service is one of the most

important things that we offer. We couldn’t run the business effectively without it.”

For the three months the world was shut down during the pandemic, Hemwall took the opportuni ty to reorganize the company both physically and administratively from the warehouse to service, products, and staff. “We’ve turned down our engines and become a slightly smaller company with better quality employees,” he says. “Our reorganiza tion gave us a team of people who are dedicated to making this machine work as the new East Coast Energy Products.”

As owner of the company, Hemwall has recom mitted his time to being back out in the field facing customers directly to build sales. “We also slightly narrowed down our product lines and made our showroom smaller and more focused. It feels good to start fresh with what we do best, know best, and sell best. Ultimately, we are a better business.”

Going into its 33rd year of operation, East Coast Energy Products sees many changes on the hori zon—especially when it relates to climate change.

“Electrification is coming. We discuss it and don’t know how it’s going to affect our business or how quickly it’s going to come,” Hemwall says. “I think it’s something the entire industry needs to pay attention to and work together to maintain innova tive products that operate on renewable fuels. I believe that dealers are going to experience some pain, but wholeheartedly agree and support it. Many manufacturers are already heading in the right direction, if you look at some of the amazing electric fireplaces that are coming out.”

Randy Ransom, vice president and general man ager of East Coast Energy Products, feels confident about the path to the future: “We have put the past behind us. We want to grow and evolve through this period of time so we can be a positive force our in our neighborhoods and communities. I think all the changes that we have made are a breath of fresh air for myself, the staff, and customers. We are a tighter group than we’ve ever been, which will make us stronger and more focused as we move forward.”

Hearth is an important part of the store’s overall appeal.

From everyone here at Valor, we hope our dealers enjoy the holidays with family and friends.

QR code to Happy Holidays!

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WEST COAST VIBES

BY KIMBERLY RODGERS PHOTOS BY LILY FASSNACHT

About four years ago, when Jim Montgomery, co-owner of Backyard Expressions, found a vacant retail space online, he immediately recog nized an opportunity. The family-owned and -operated company already had two locations (Orange County, California) and the potential site, in nearby Laguna Hills, looked like the right fit. “I thought this space would enable us to grow, and it was in a great location.”

Known as The Row, the lifestyle shopping center features a range of stores catering to the home, including furniture, lighting, floor coverings, mattresses, and family entertainment. Above all, it has excellent visibility and access to the heavily traveled I-5 freeway.

The next day, Montgomery and his daughter and business partner, Angela Rolish, went to the center to look through the store’s windows. He then made a visit with his son Tom, a now-partner in the Laguna Hills store. Within a few days, they signed a lease.

BOTTOM:

Being in the heart of a thriving retail district has been a boon for Backyard Expressions, Montgomery says. “In addition to being in furniture’s row, we are

TOP: Backyard Expressions in Laguna Hills is in the middle of a thriving lifestyle retail center.

All three locations carry a wide variety of products for casual living.

This popular Southern California retailer continues to expand.

next door to a Lamps Plus (the nation’s largest light ing retailer), which drives a lot of traffic into the store. People who didn’t even know we existed come in, and it’s been great for our business.”

Montgomery has worked in the patio industry for almost 50 years, starting when he was 16 years old. After managing Anaheim Patio & Fireside for 35

years, he and his wife, Joanne, partnered with their daughter Angela and son-in-law Chad Rolish and opened Backyard Expressions in 2008 in Yorba Linda. Angela was about to have her third child when her dad asked her to go into business with him. “I had no desire to open a patio store, but I believed in my father and trusted him,” she says.

The partners added a second store in 2014 in Huntington Beach and in 2018 launched the Laguna Hills store. Ironically, the Huntington Beach location is the former home of Anaheim Patio & Fireside.

Jim and Angela oversee and run day-to-day opera tions of all three stores. In addition, there are several other family members (Jim and Joanne have 13 chil

dren) involved in the business, including daughter Sarah Montgomery, manager of the Yorba Linda store; son Stephen, who manages the Huntington Beach location; son Tom, manager and part owner in Laguna Hills; and son Anthony, who is on the ware house/delivery team. In addition, two of Angela’s five children, Jack and Aidan Rolish, step in for deliveries and other tasks whenever they are needed.

Jim notes that they don’t need to spend a lot of money on advertising for a few reasons. Since the Huntington Beach location had already been an established patio store for 50 years, it had a built-in customer base and a high recognition factor in the community. In addition, because he managed the store for 35 years, he was a familiar face in the com munity with some notoriety. “People come in and always seem to remember me and ask, ‘where’s the guy with the 13 kids?’”

OPEN CONCEPT

The Laguna Hills showroom features 12,000 square feet with a contemporary open concept. “It’s the same size as our Huntington Beach store, but because of its wide clear format, it’s very fluid and more conducive to shopping,” Montgomery says. “There is also only one entrance, and customers can come in and see everything in their view.”

Backyard Expressions carries a wide variety of products for casual living with patio furni ture the largest segment in terms of sales across all three stores. All locations also do a great business on barbecue grills and fire pits, as well as gas logs and doors in the fireside segment.

Montgomery has noticed a shift in customers requesting specific brands, unlike in years past, when consumers were much more aware of certain manufacturers. For example, he says, “People would come in and ask for Brown Jordan, Tropitone, or OW Lee but that rarely hap pens anymore.” In this era of social media marketing and web sites devoted to home design, he is not quite sure why this shift has occurred. It may be related to the number of spe cialty retail dealers that have closed over the last sev eral years. Buyers now have fewer places to shop and consequently are less aware or familiar with top-name patio manufacturers.

“It’s sad because we need each other. When one of us goes out, nobody picks up their business and it makes the big-box stores more important—which is unfortunate.” Furthermore, he says there are now many good lines available (coming from China) which are not name brands but have a similar look. “This dilutes the top name brands, but people are driven more by the look of furniture and they don’t necessarily know the high-end names anymore.”

TOP: Tom Montgomery, Joanne Montgomery, Jim Montgomery, Angela Rolish, and Chad Rolish

BOTTOM: When possible, Backyard Expressions offers same-day delivery.

That said, Backyard Expressions does good business with Tropitone, Telescope Casual, Patio Renaissance, Hanamint, and RH Peterson. Deep seating and fire pits are big sellers, especially over the past couple of years when people stayed home and wanted to create more comfortable spaces for themselves and their friends and family to gather.

The Southern California patio furniture market is competitive, yet Backyard Expressions has continued to flourish and grow. Montgomery attributes much of the store’s success to customer service. “In this business, there is always some kind of issue that comes up, and we try to take care of those instantly instead of keeping people waiting.” This keeps customers happy and com ing back when they need to make an additional pur chase, as well as happily referring their friends and fami ly. In addition, Backyard Expressions offers same-day delivery, if possible. “It’s something we can control, and it does make a difference to our customers.”

To help alleviate concerns customers often have over a big furniture purchase, Backyard Expressions offers an informal program called If It Fits, It Ships (borrowing the phrase from the U.S. Postal Service). “We do this for those customers who really want to place an order but are concerned the furniture won’t fit or look right in their space.” Montgomery says. “If they like it, they pay for it and if not, we load it back up on our truck, no questions asked.” Most customers end up keeping their furniture because they have the opportu

nity to see, touch, and sit on the product in their own spaces, he adds.

Launching their first store in 2008 (just before the start of the Great Recession), and the most recent store in 2018 (two years before the pandemic), the Montgomery family certainly has seen their share of business challenges. Yet none of these obstacles have deterred their growth and success. “We have always played it close to the vest and don’t over extend our selves with credit—we never want to get a phone call that says our credit is on hold.”

He notes that retail business owners can run into problems when they have good months and pull money out. When the lean months happen, as they do in the industry, there is not enough cash on hand to sustain the business. “It’s always been our philosophy to put everything back into the business. If you plan for the slow months, it’s a lot easier to keep on track.”

As the co-owner of three retail stores, Montgomery says many employees and their families depend on Backyard Expressions and its continued success. “When you look at it this way, it’s a big responsibility.”

(From left to right) Jessica Kelly, Tom Montgomery, Joanne Montgomery, Jim Montgomery, Angela Rolish, Chad Rolish, Sarah Montgomery, and Anthony Montgomery

St u rdy & St ylish

BY SHARON SANDERS

Breezesta is a major player in the growing recycled poly-lumber category. Founded over 20 years ago, the innovative company has gained solid footing with specialty retailers as it is reinventing the way consumers perceive poly furniture. Patio & Hearth Products Report spent some time with Rick Brinton, president and CEO, and Renate Keares, vice president of sales and marketing, for a behind-the-scenes look at this dynamic, for ward-thinking business.

What is the latest news from Breezesta?

Brinton: Breezesta is moving into the next gen eration of its business, further expanding our vision of purposefully creating sustainable out door furniture. Last year, we were acquired by the Keter Group, a 70-year-old global company with multiple manufacturing sites in Europe, Israel, and the United States—they are a leading pro ducer of plastic consumer goods including resi dential patio furniture. This new partnership is going to enable us to be an even stronger force in the industry. We are excited about the new momentum it brings and what it means for Breezesta, our customers, and consumers.

Do you think the poly-lumber category is growing?

Keares: Resoundingly, yes. There is money to be made and the furniture industry sees the tremen dous potential. Breezesta’s new dealer requests are at an all-time high right now. Many dealers, both traditional and online-only, are expanding their positions in the poly category or considering it for

the first time because consumers are asking for it and it’s getting more exposure in retail stores. Sales are also growing because it represents an excel lent outdoor furniture solution—and the value propo sition is there. It’s weather-resistant, durable, and it’s more stylish than ever with more traditional furniture material looks. It also allows people to infuse some color in their spaces to customize and express them selves. It’s easy to mix and match any furniture piece and it suits a wood cabin, as much as a beach home or an outdoor great room.

How does Breezesta set itself apart from other poly-lumber competitors?

Keares: Breezesta sets itself apart with unparalleled comfort, quality, and premium features. We truly make comfortable furniture to fit all bodies. It’s very

substantial, hefty, and sturdy. We use mortise and tenon joints along with fasteners to secure it together and that has the benefit of giving the furniture an upscale, refined look, even on an Adirondack chair. The stainless fasteners we use are powder-coated and color-matched to the furniture. Consumers and deal ers can see that Breezesta stands out in the way it’s made. People expect a lot in quality these days, so it’s definitely made for the discriminating buyer.

Why do dealers love Breezesta?

Keares: Our dealers tell us that Breezesta is an easy sale. We give them a beautiful display that shows our 20 unique colors that can be mixed and matched with no limits. Everyone loves eco-friendly products with a good story, so it includes a fabric swatch and vials of flakes, pellets, and colorant, which allow the retail salesperson the opportunity to discuss that Breezesta makes its own recycled poly-lumber with HDPE and #2 milk jugs sourced from Trigon Plastic (Casual Living Unlimited’s recycling/extrusion facility).

The retailer’s advantage in selling a line with unique texture and colors is that it can’t be shopped around locally. This really helps repeat business because cus tomers do come back to buy more years later. Our catalog is also laid out clearly by collection and height. Demand for counter and bar height furniture sets has increased, so we make it easy for the cus tomer to see what’s available. It’s basic, but really helps reduce the complexity of the shopping process.

What is your customer service philosophy?

Keares: Customer service is everything to us. We pride ourselves on being accessible, answering the

TOP LEFT: Renate Keares (left) and Rick Brinton

Breezesta’s sales are growing as consumers turn to sustainable poly-lumber designs.

Carousel collection consist of four versions of dining armchairs, three versions of lounge armchairs, loveseat, ottoman, square and rectangular coffee tables. It is an extremely original Industrial Design product, which perfectly matches any setting. The distinctive and elegant feature of the seat is the enveloping aluminum armrest which gives it a unique character. Its aluminum frame is completed by several textures and materials, which result – as if on a carousel – in several possible combinations. Carousel is the ideal way to customize outdoor spaces, guaranteeing maximum comfort and functionality.

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phone, and responding to all emails. We want to hear from our dealers and consumers. During COVID, we invested heavily in customer service, so now we have ample staff that can act proactively. Since the lead time and shipping questions have ceased, we are back to nor mal service levels.

What is a must-do for a casual furniture man ufacturer today?

Keares: Dealers are exhausted from the difficulties and hurdles of the past two years. They want to deal with manufacturers who communicate and supply them con sistently. Breezesta did its best during the toughest times. We pride ourselves that we didn’t run out of any prod ucts or colors; we shipped consistently without interrup tion; we didn’t cut off any existing customers; and we e-blasted our lead times and updates regularly.

Our lead times were in line with the rest of the

industry, but now we’re happy to report that they are back to normal. Short lead times are key going for ward. We believe specialty retailers and manufacturers must have in-stock products or be able to make and ship within a few weeks. Breezesta has always had an in-stock Quick Ship Program, and that’s a competitive edge for our retailers right now.

What changes have you made to keep your brand fresh and relevant in the marketplace?

Keares: As of three years ago, we have been revamp ing our company image, brand, and our products. We relaunched our website with beautiful photography to better reflect the premium products we make, and it’s really paid off for us with the right consumer percep tion of our brand and company. We redesigned our catalog layout and included more lifestyle images for greater appeal.

On the product side, we hired a product engineer to redesign our existing furniture to improve upon them technically and work on new product develop ment. Our launches have been on-trend products that give consumers the choice of styles you see with tradi tional materials, but in poly. A good example is the Palm Beach deep seating and dining collection that features mid-century modern industrial design that is prevalent in aluminum modular sectionals today.

On the marketing side, we implemented a new mar keting communication tool (to e-blast business updates, lead times, and product launches) for our dealer base. We intend to start consumer campaigns as well to direct interested customers to our dealers’ stores.

What products are you most excited about for 2023?

Keares: The collection that has garnered the most praise and attention is our Chill Chat collection that we refer to as cushionless deep seating. Chill is doing well because it elevates poly to outdoor living room furniture—not just the occasional chairs category. It’s a high-quality product with hidden hardware that’s amazingly comfortable—and it includes the first cush ionless poly sofa in the industry. We launched Chill two years ago during COVID when many of our deal ers were too busy to embrace new launches. It’s finally getting the recognition it deserves.

We’ve also identified some gaps in our basic prod uct lines. As a result, for 2023 we are launching a new traditional rocker style, a folding side table, as well as a non-folding counter and bar height side tables. We are also building on the second-best-selling product in our line—the Coastal Counter Chair. Although we sell a ton of tête-à-tête sets with the chair, there is a need for a separate counter side table (instead of an attached tabletop)—so we are adding one to the line. We are confident that these new high volume items will help our dealers sell more Adirondack and balcony sets.

What do you see for the future of the polylumber category?

Keares: We see growth and expansion for the poly category in both residential and commercial applica tions. It will be more mainstream, with more space dedicated at specialty retail, as well as big box and mass stores with more price options and styles for con sumers. Breezesta will continue to position itself as a premium, quality brand dedicated to specialty retailers.

What are Breezesta’s plans for the future?

Brinton: With the strength and backing of the Keter Group, our future is bright. They bring the financial and technical resources needed to reinvest in our busi ness and scale, which will bring volume, automation, and drive down costs. We will be investing in new product development to expand the line so our retail dealers can continue to differentiate themselves in their offering of innovative, attractive poly outdoor furniture solutions. The timing could not have been better as we are outgrowing our current plant, and we will be looking for larger and more sophisticated pro duction facilities as we plan our future.

The Danver Dif ference

BY KIMBERLY RODGERS

MITCH SLATER, PRESIDENT AND

FOUNDER

OF DANVER Stainless Outdoor Kitchens (Wallingford, Connecticut), first recognized there was a gap in the outdoor kitchen market while attending industry trade shows in the mid-1990s. Backyard barbecue islands constructed in wood, stucco, and stone dominated the market and Slater recognized a real need for outdoor kitchens that could deliver the look and feel of the indoor space.

After he purchased a factory that made sheet metal stands for copy machines, Slater began experimenting with stainless steel carts and other kitchen accessories before shifting his focus to specialize in stainless steel cabinetry for the outdoor space. “As we continued to experiment, we found design pro fessionals were keen to invest in materials that would not rot like wood and be durable enough to withstand the elements of the outdoors—while delivering function and style.”

Today, Danver is the leading stainless steel cabinet manu facturer in the outdoor kitchen market, and Slater is proud that his company has helped elevate the industry with the company’s premium cabinetry.

The popularity and demand for the company’s stainless steel options have grown over the past 20 years, making Danver an industry leader in offering a beautiful and functional alternative to traditional materials used in the outdoor kitchen space. “We opened the door to options behind stone, stucco, and composite

TOP LEFT: Danver stainless outdoor kitchens come in a range of configurations and can accommodate most outdoor appliances regardless of brand or function.

TOP RIGHT: Danver offers a broad palette of powder-coat finishes.

BOTTOM: The Cosmopolitan Cooking Table features innovative Invisacook induction technology.

islands and introduced storage, functionality, and style with our stainless steel solutions,” Slater says.

All products are manufactured at the company’s Connecticut factory to supply Danver’s core mar ket throughout the U.S. and Canada. Indeed, the company’s reach goes beyond year-round warm weather areas, extending to four-season climates in the Midwest, Northeast, and Canada. The compa ny also has a global presence with sales in the United Kingdom, Central America, Europe, Mexico, and the Middle East.

Danver’s customers are architects, builders, landscapers, and other design professionals who are creating and building new homes and remodel ing projects for the residential market. The typical end-user for these projects, Slater notes, are people investing in high-end homes who desire an out door kitchen that resembles and functions as their indoor space. “Our end-consumers are often creat ing highly customized spaces and appreciate our wide range of colors, styles, and sizes available.”

In addition, these buyers want to incorporate high-end appliances ranging from grills and pizza ovens to smokers, refrigerators, sinks, wine/beer dispensers, and even dishwashers. “Our flexible design solutions are key in bringing these visions to life for design professionals and homeowners.”

THE DANVER DIFFERENCE

Danver only uses the highest quality 304 or 316 stainless steel to manufacture all its products, ensuring beauty and functionality along with dura bility, the ability to withstand extreme weather ele ments, and corrosion resistance. All cabinetry is made-to-order and fabricated with the support of Danver’s highly collaborative in-house team.

Beyond its built-in quality, an incredibly wide range of configurations are available, including 1,500 different cabinet options with 3” increments including wall, base, and corner units encompass ing dozens of styles in hundreds of sizes. “There are nearly unlimited design possibilities,” Slater

This company’s striking outdoor kitchens rival the indoors with elevated function and style.

says. Danver cabinets also accommodate most outdoor appliances regardless of brand or function, include ample storage space, and are tightly sealed to protect against weather with magnetic closures and rain gaskets.

The industry leader in powder-coat innovations, Danver offers a broad palette of powder-coat finishes, including bright and neutral colors, metallics, textures, and a realistic wood-grain look. “The majority of today’s homeowners want a multifunctional outdoor living space where the outdoors blend seamlessly with the indoors,” Slater says. “Our wide portfolio of door styles and powder-coat finishes makes it possible to achieve this for nearly any aesthetic.”

In fact, about 90% of the company’s customers are opting to add a powder-coat option over a stainless steel finish to their outdoor kitchen. “As the first stainless steel outdoor cabinetry brand, we have per fected stylish cabinets that withstand coastal applica tions, rooftops with high winds, and all four seasons with little maintenance.”

Danver cabinets continue to evolve in quality, engi neering, and style based on input the company receives from builders, architects, and other design professionals. This collaboration has led to new door styles and finish es to functional upgrades like concealed appliances and soft-close hinges. “We have maintained our status as a leader in the outdoor kitchen space with a continued emphasis on innovation informed by firsthand insights on market gaps from design professionals.”

From a builder perspective, Danver’s stainless steel cabinetry offers an easier installation process compared

to stone masonry. All cabinets are shipped pre-assem bled, and unlike masonry, installation is simple and con venient. For the end-user, stainless steel cabinets offer easy long-term maintenance and cleaning.

MEETING MARKET DEMAND

In 2012, Danver entered into a licensing agreement with luxury outdoor furniture manufacturer Brown Jordan to develop and market a collection of high-quality outdoor kitchens. In 2020, Danver also entered into similar agreement with Trex Company, the global leader in high performance wood-alternative decking and railing.

Under the Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchen collec tion, Elements made its debut in 2021. “Elements con tinues Brown Jordan’s commitment to design innova tion through a contemporary, free-standing approach to outdoor cabinetry,” Slater says. The collection was con ceived as a set of uniquely designed stainless steel mod ules and was designed in collaboration with architect, designer, and creative director Daniel Germani.

Danver recently launched the Cosmopolitan Table Collection, and it has already generated strong market interest. The collection includes three unique product offerings: the Cosmopolitan Prep Table (with or without drawers), Cosmopolitan Dining Table, and Cosmopolitan Cooking Table–which offers innovative Invisacook induc tion technology, giving the ability to cook directly on the table surface. All tables are built from weather-resistant powder-coated stainless steel.

The collection truly brings versatility to any outdoor space, from giving homeowners a chance to cook in spaces

without room for a grill to providing additional serving space with a built-in warming feature for larger outdoor areas. “As many condos have regulations that prevent the use of outdoor grills on balconies, our new Cosmopolitan Cooking Table offers a unique solution,” Slater says.

Since Danver began over two decades ago, there has been tremendous growth and development in the out door kitchen category. From a simple grill on the side of the house to a completely independent cooking space (rivaling the indoors), the outdoor kitchen room now includes storage, refrigeration, cooktops, pizza ovens, built-in trash receptacles, beverage centers, sinks with dis posals, and more.

“As our manufacturing has continued to evolve to support these more sophisticated design options, an increasing number of homeowners are prioritizing out door kitchens—planning for them just as they do for an interior room.” This includes consumers dedicating larg er footprints and budgets to the outdoor space.

Danver continues to achieve great success in rising to the increased demand. “As a manufacturer, we are able to work quickly and efficiently, taking ownership of our own timelines,” Slater says.

The company prides itself on timely innovation in response to market demand and looks forward to con tinuing to expand and explore new opportunities in the outdoor living space. “Our goal is to support and nurture the businesses that sell and install our prod ucts,” he says. “We will continue to give our customers a competitive advantage as this exciting market con tinues to grow and evolve.”

More Than Just a Kitchen –

A Complete Outdoor Living Space

When it comes to your outdoor living area, having a timelessly designed stainless steel outdoor kitchen is the best way to showcase your creativity with color and style.

Designed to accommodate even the most creative outdoor kitchen layout, our cabinets complement any manufacturer’s grill along with a multitude of other outdoor kitchen appliances and bar accessories. This versatility allows our expert designers to effortlessly turn your outdoor kitchen idea into a reality.

AS

OBSESSED WITH SUCCESS

Hearth Products Controls’ unswerving focus on innovation and safety results in superior products and service.

BY MAURA KELLER

individuals from so many different backgrounds have helped us set the industry standard for excellence,” Steimle says.

TRANSFORMATIVE HISTORY

Historically speaking, HPC Fire Inspired was in its infancy in the early 2000s, as far as the production of fire features goes. But as Steimle notes, that didn’t stop the HPC team from working to catapult the company to the next level.

“We already had a foot in the door as component and control manufac turers, so, through the effort of an amazing team, we were able to start producing the actual fire and hearth products that people were wanting to burn,” Steimle says. “From then on, we could only go up.”

ates the perfect flame pattern and is available for most of our fire features.”

HPC also offers Fire on Water prod ucts, and their customers really like the Evolution360, which provides the per fect ambiance for an outdoor space.

From HPC’s outdoor dining prod uct line, Steimle says the Forno de Pizza is by far their most popular. “Its hybrid, gas, and wood-burning design makes it the quickest and most effi cient oven available, and it can bake, grill, smoke, and more,” Steimle says. “It sells so well because it is one-stop shopping for an outdoor kitchen. Plus, the colorful mosaic tiles are beautiful!”

CONSUMERS AND COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS

continue to focus on investing in their home and hospitality environments, their attention is turned to integrating the latest technologies to enhance their home’s comfort and overall design. Sean Steimle, CEO of HPC Fire Inspired, says one key area that homeowners are interested in is state-of-the-art hearth outdoor fire and living design. Steimle should know. As one of the leading hearth component manufacturers, HPC Fire Inspired has been impacting con sumers’ hearth experiences for decades.

It was in 1975 when Dan Maddox founded The Maddox Company. “Dan found his niche within the budding industry of fire feature component manu facturing, and the sale of his controls were the driving force behind the company for over 25 years,” Steimle says.

In 2001, The Maddox Company changed its name to Hearth Products Controls (HPC Fire Inspired). At that time, Maddox saw the potential for developing not just components, but fire features themselves, and he worked hard to make that dream come true. As Steimle explains, he provided the com pany with great leadership for 35 years. Greg Steck purchased the company in 2010, and, under his leadership, HPC experienced immense growth.

“The work that he and his team put into the company was critical in not only improving the existing industry, but also in setting a strong precedence for safety and quality while innovating new products,” Steimle says. “In 2018, I stepped into the role of CEO. Since then, the company has grown at an unprecedented rate.”

HPC has been able to hire more employees, innovate remarkable technology, and provide unseen customer satisfaction. Beginning with the effort that Maddox put in almost 50 years ago, HPC Fire Inspired has collectively worked its way to the top of the industry through the great innovators, skilled manufacturers, and business professionals that showed decades of dedication to the company.

“We are proud to look back on our history and see that the work of so many

To accomplish this, HPC incorpo rated new technology into its product line, and the last 10 to 15 years have proven to Steimle and his team that their hard work was paying off.

“The market was growing every year. The past two years in particular saw a monumentally favorable shift toward the outdoor living market,” Steimle says. “Our customers had a growing interest in their outdoor spaces, and we have been glad to pro vide them with continuous support in developing their property and offering the opportunities to make memories and share comfortable moments around a fire.”

PRODUCTS

CONSUMERS NOTICE

HPC boasts a vast array of products that can be purchased to suit individ ual needs. The company’s fire features that include electronic ignition sys tems are among their most popular.

“Our customers love having the ability to use their phones to control their fire pits. Also, the freedom to adjust flame height to the customer’s liking has always been a hit,” Steimle says. “Our patented Penta burner cre

In addition to the efficient controls and design of HPC products, con sumers are drawn to the technological advancements of their products. As such, the HPC team has its proverbial thumb on the pulse of the technologi cal world, as it constantly evolves and changes. “Our team is always working to rise to the new and exciting chal lenges that we face,” Steimle says. “New technology means more conven ience, more comfort, and more fun, all while staying safe and CSA certified.”

Consumers are always looking for a beautiful fire feature. This means selecting the right flame shape and size, the right overall product shape and size, and the right media. A taller and more intense flame has become increasingly popular, so HPC Fire Inspired introduced its Torpedo burners to meet that demand.

As Steimle explains, with this tech nology, HPC has been able to pro duce very attractive and stylized flames. Fire glass and lava rocks are the two strongest contenders for styling options. Rolled lava rock, especially, is one of the company’s best sellers as it offers a natural, efficient, and attrac tive look to any fire feature.

“Customers avoid unreliability,” Steimle says. “There are a lot of inex pensive fire tables and other products that simply do not meet the industry standards. They fail to light, they do

RETURN TO NORMAL

BY LAURIE RUDD

CHALLENGING. EXTRAORDINARY. FAR FROM NORMAL. These descriptors encapsulate the past two-and-a-half years from a casual industry perspective. From materials to labor, challenges were juxtaposed against extraordinary demand on product, all equating to a busi ness climate beyond anything close to normal.

For the nimble, however, these experiences resulted in tremendous oppor tunities and successful learning moments. Such was and continues to be the case for Ebel Inc., an outdoor furnishings manufacturer headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida.

“Although sales levels during 2021 were ridiculous, they brought on lead time challenges that continued into 2022,” says Mark Bottemiller, national sales manager. “Yet, for 2023, we are seeing the return to a more normal sales level, a preferred special-order paradigm, and lead times for shipments back to our typical four weeks.”

RETURN TO SMOOTH SELLING

“In the last two-and-a-half years, outdoor retailers got used to a sales model of taking what they could get, versus what they actually would have want ed,” Bottemiller says. “In the year looking forward, we are now back to being able to provide what they want.”

Bottemiller sees the business outlook for Ebel as positive, although with cautionary elements. He acknowledges that wild cards may interfere, such as the federal reserve, the stock market or weather, but in general, his company is poised to react accordingly.

“Assuming that on these factors we get a nice break, the outlook will be more positive,” Bottemiller says. “The American public has a short memory, and we

TOP: Mia XL Sofa with chaise cushion and armrest tray

BOTTOM: Antibes cushionless seating

see by next season the buying public head ing back in the stores. We will then be tasked with finessing sales techniques.”

Bottemiller’s observations center around the unique nature of buyer con versations with his sales team that have included such familiar phrases as “what can you get me? and how long do I have to wait?” A sense of old-fashioned sales personship was viewed as virtually nonexistent while casual dealers built up inventory as they could.

“Retailers this season are heavy on inventory and my expectations for early buys is that they will be light and late,” Bottemiller says. “Dealers are waiting to see what they will need and taking advantage of our ability to

return to a more normal shipping time frame for early buys.”

With its focus on specialty brickand-mortar concerns, Ebel’s shortened delivery time frame is looking to have a positive impact as they place even greater emphasis on it. Shipping, how ever, is another wild card per Bottemiller, and he views rates as improving despite timing continuing to provide challenges.

“Vessels are floating a lot longer and transit times are slower,” Bottemiller says. “This will continue to wreak havoc for those manufacturing offshore, and salesmanship and educating the buyers will be vital.”

Ebel offers an optimistic outlook on the state of the casual industry and its own standing.

CreativeComfor ts

For Niels and Alyce Wittus, it’s all about bringing hygge into the home.

BY LARRY THOMAS

HYGGE (PRONOUNCED HUE-GAH) IS A

concept developed in Niels Wittus’ native Denmark for enjoying life’s simple pleasures of comfortable living and happiness. And Niels and Alyce Wittus believe that the best way for Americans to experience hygge is to add a fireplace.

“Adding a fire element like a wood-burning stove immediately enhances the warmth and ambiance to the surroundings,” Alyce Wittus says. “The fire element is a natural fit for bringing hygge into the home.”

Since 1978, she and her husband have been spreading hygge into American homes one fireplace at a time from the small town of Pound Ridge, New York, which is about an hour’s drive north of New York City.

At Wittus Fire By Design, they rely exclusively on imported European fireplaces—most of them wood burning—that incorporate contemporary styling. Many of them are free-standing models, and more than a few adhere to traditional European design by including a cooking compartment above the firebox.

“We are known for our contemporary wood-burning models, including our line of cookstoves, but we do have a fair number of inquiries about gas,” Wittus says. “Some want the ease of a gas-lit fireplace, and some want the ambiance and efficiency of a woodburning stove.”

TOP LEFT: Shaker wood-burning stove

TOP RIGHT: Domino 8 Maxi cookstove

BOTTOM: Tatiana hanging fireplace

She notes that wood-burning stoves generally are a more reliable form of heat, so homeowners needing to heat larger spaces (1,000 square feet or more) with a fireplace essentially have no choice other than wood. And in her view, that’s not a bad thing.

“The contemporary styling of one of our stoves is a plus in this department,” she says, pointing out that it not only keeps the space warm, but achieves the

highest level of hygge in the home.

Wittus products are sold through a network of about 100 dealers, but the company also markets directly to home builders, architects, interior designers, and consumers through print and digital advertising, and word of mouth. Plus, cur rent dealers advertise their products in local markets.

She says the company hasn’t exhibited at industry trade shows in recent years,

but business hasn’t suffered. In fact, several retailers recently have reached out to the company about becoming a dealer—often after a consumer has inquired about obtaining a Wittus fireplace. “Since we have been a unique company in the industry for over 40 years, we are well known by most of the dealers,” Wittus says.

Like nearly every other hearth company, the first year of the pandemic creat ed a “shopping frenzy” for Wittus that temporarily eliminated the seasonality of the business. “Sales were steady throughout all seasons with very little break,” she says.

She says the momentum continued into 2022 with only a marginal drop-off in sales during the tra ditionally slow summer months. And now that the company is in the midst of what she calls “the high heating season,” business is again brisk with cus tomers rushing to get any and all available products.

“We’re getting a lot of inquiries for cookstoves,” she says. “Clients want the most for their money, and that includes stoves that heat and cook.”

The only thing that could put a damper on the current season is the continuing supply chain issues. Wittus says some fireplace producers are experiencing parts shortages, which has led to delivery delays. Plus, the fireplace business is booming again in Europe, which makes it difficult to get certain models delivered to the U.S.

“We do have certain products in stock, or we can get them easily, while others have more of a wait,” she says. “Stoves with long delivery times might not be so popular as we get further into high heating season.”

And while Wittus is not predicting another “shopping frenzy” in 2023, she predicts that there still is plenty of room for growth next year.

“Many people who used to work in the office are still working from home, and that has become the norm in many cases,” she says. “These clients want to improve their homes and make them more sustainable and energy effi cient, especially with the high cost of oil and the high inflation we are experiencing. And even though the real estate market has cooled off a bit, there are still many new homeowners who are working on home improvements.”

TOP LEFT: Stromboli rotating stove

TOP RIGHT: Varia fireplace

We’re getting a lot of inquiries for cookstoves. Clients want the most for their money, and that includes stoves that heat and cook.”

W H AT ’S N E W

Madrona

Available in arched, square, and modern styles, the Madrona projects warmth and am biance in any living space. In addition to the clean lines and cast-iron craftsmanship, this functional unit provides energy-efficient, ra diant heating throughout your home. Grow ing in popularity, these stoves supply a con stant flow of radiant heat and naturally con vected warm air. Continuously warming ob jects in its path, radiant heat will satisfy your comfort needs while using 25% less overall energy compared to forced air systems. Contact: (800) 468-2567 or www.valorfireplaces.com

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Lineas – New Dining, Counter, and Bar

Lineas, Spanish for “lines,” marries Durarope weaving with a rounded barrel-styled silhouette and whitewashed alu minum for an inviting outdoor look. The Lineas frame has a hand-brushed whitewashed finish, and the chair’s tapered round legs offer a sleek design reminiscent of lounging in the Hamptons. Designed to withstand the elements, the triple-weave Durarope in Linen color is UV- and weatherresistant to keep your new favorite outdoor set flawless for years to come. Available in Living, Dining, Counter, and Bar. Contact: (866) 919-1881 or www.ratana.com

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Round Lounge

Round is a collec tion defined by its search for structural balance and soft lines, an interpreta tion of outdoor space that conveys stylistic but essential refinement. EMU has created some of the world’s finest Italianmade outdoor furniture for your modern home. Contact: (303) 733-3385 or www.emuliving.us

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54 Volume III Collection

Celebrating its 100-year anniversary, Tempotest USA introduces the 54 Volume III collection. The recent launch consists of over 40 SKUs of new solids, fresh stripe designs, and luxurious textures. Colors range from turquoise, indigo, and sapphire to coral, clay, pewter, mer cury, and onyx. All Tempotest performance fabrics are made with 100% solution-dyed acrylic fibers. Contact: (972) 512-3534 or www.tempotestusa.com

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Pit Boss 5-Burner Ultimate Griddle

The Pit Boss 5-Burner Ultimate Griddle blends power and precision for an unrivaled outdoor cooking experi ence. The proprietary non-stick armored cooking sur face is ready to use straight out of the box and is a dream to clean. As a bonus, the ceramic coating pro tects the griddle from scratches and rust to keep it look ing better for longer. With a 647-square-inch cooking surface, this griddle is large and versatile enough to be your go-to for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Contact: (877) 303-3134 or www.pitboss-grills.com

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New! Heat & Glo Supreme Freestanding Gas Fireplace

Introducing the Supreme freestanding gas fireplace. Customers can have one installed in less than a day, then enjoy the large, clear view of the fire that evening. It’s customizable with accent lighting, a choice of interior panels, and either Oak or Natural Birch logs. A storage area in the pedestal base is the perfect spot to keep a favorite throw or fireside read. Contact: (888) 427-3973 or www.heatnglo.com

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PRODUC TS

Palermo Collection

Discover the ideal blend of comfort and design within Ebel’s Palermo collection. With seating and sectional options for lounging, and tradi tional, counter or bar height options for dining, this collection is versa tile enough to fit any outdoor living space. Offered in both Graphite and White (shown) frame finishes, and also—new for 2023—sling seat ing and dining pieces, for a modern look without the maintenance of cushions. Contact: (866) 752-6320 or www.ebelinc.com.

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Porch Swing

Swing into 2023 with the Porch Swing from Telescope Casual. You’ll find yourself wanting to enjoy your morning coffee or evening beverage only from the ultra-com fortable design of the Porch Swing. Build up the back with plush back pillows or an exciting assortment of throw pillows—the choice is yours! Contact: (518) 642-1100 or www.telescopecasual.com.

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NetZero E-One: Seeing is Believing

No venting. No gas lines. No limitations. Get the authentic look of fire with leading-edge holographic flame technology that’s unlike anything else on the market. Own the future of fire and give customers what they’re asking for—sustainable choices without compromise. Take a moment to take it all in—seeing is believing. The E-one delivers all the beauty of fire with the benefits of zero emissions, zero fossil fuels, and low energy con sumption. Contact: netzerofire.com.

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Big Green Egg Rotisserie Kit

The Big Green Egg Rotis serie Kit converts your EGG into a wood-fired ro tisserie! This complete kit features a powerful, yet quiet 220V-240V motor that will consistently and evenly turn food over the flame and a coated steel ring attachment that seals the EGG for optimal heat and flavor reten tion. The kit comes with the traditional rotisserie spit, but also works seamlessly with flat or tumbler style rotisserie baskets. Durable stain less steel construction fits both the Large and XL EGGs. Contact: (770) 938-9394 or www.biggreenegg.com.

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Brown Jordan Beadboard Door

Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens brings function, style, and design together for outdoor living spaces with eight stain less steel door styles available to create a lasting impact within any footprint. The Beadboard door is one of the most pop ular styles within the brand’s portfolio— constructed with Key West-style stiles and rails with a 1.5-inch-wide panel in the center—and available in 50+ powder-coat finishes to add style and provide further protection from the elements. Contact: (203) 269-2300 or www.danver.com.

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The MIA Deep Seating/Sectional Solution

New for 2023, the MIA Collection features a modern, inviting aesthet ic that offers deep-seating comfort and beauty to your outdoor spaces. MIA offers the best of both worlds, with sectional and sofa/loveseat applications that feature single, double, and triple seating options in a space-efficient and contemporary design. Stylish, comfortable, and practical, MIA manages to fit in any setting from the balcony to the pa tio, to just about anywhere you can imagine. Arriving early 2023. Con tact: www.seasidecasual.com.

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Ronda 2.0

It is a challenge to redesign perfec tion. Nonetheless, EMU’s Italian de signers have taken the Ronda, created in 1997, and per fected it to the Ron da 2.0. The innova

tive one-piece design for the seat and back follows the curves of the body to amplify support and comfort. A newly designed mesh makes this collec tion practical and strong, yet lightweight enough to stack. Made using the same patented e-coated steel process as the original, Ronda 2.0 is durable and perfect for any patio. This collection consists of a sidechair, armchair, and barstool. Contact: (303) 733-3385 or emuliving.us. Circle

Danver Colors

Danver offers more than 50 col ors and finishes across its expan sive product line, spanning everything from popular neutrals like Jet Black, Chromica Baltic, and White Silk to eye-catching trendsetters like Chili, Clemen tine, and Autumn to nature-in spired wood-grain options. In keeping with the brand’s com mitment to industry-leading durability, all powder-coat finish es are applied prior to assembly and provide added protection to ensure cabinets beautifully endure exposure to the elements with mini mal maintenance and care. Contact: (203) 269-2300 or www.danver.com.

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Yacht AllAluminum Outdoor Storage Boxes

Alfresco Home is intro ducing the Yacht col lection of all-aluminum outdoor storage box es. These boxes are available in two colors—a light beige “Sand Dollar” and a darker brown “Dolphin”—as well as two sizes. The Yacht boxes feature hydraulic hinge-supported lids that are arched to encourage water runoff, inte grated wheels for easy moving, and a metal mesh bottom for air flow. They are rated for economic freight with an interlocking easy-assembly method that requires no tools. Best of all, they look amazing and coor dinate well with landscapes, furniture, and décor. Visit Alfresco Home’s new showroom in the Atlanta AmericasMart Building 1, 5th Floor, Suite #5D6. Contact: (610) 705-8808 or www.alfrescohome.com.

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Patio Comfort Portable Patio Heaters

The PC02 Model Patio Heater is designed to provide warmth, comfort, and enjoyment to your outdoor spaces year-round. Completely self-contained and portable, it offers a clean and draft-free circle of heat. Patio Comfort Heaters utilize infrared heat, which heats people and solid objects instead of wasting energy by heating the air. This creates a clean and more effi cient heating source. With long-term durability, safety, and performance in mind, all materials are made from commercial-grade aluminum, stainless steel, aluminized steel, or brass. Contact: (949) 474-3070 or www.aeicorporation.com.

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Ultimate 5 Gas Logs

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

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New Forest Electric 63”

The New Forest’s rear glass perfectly mimics every detail of the fire bed to create a stunning visual appearance. Choose between three log and glass effects to match your style. The Air Curtain Technology heater system is thermostatically controlled using the remote handset and displays the set ting on the LCD screen. Choose a temperature between 63° and 81°F and the fire will do the work to heat the room up effectively. Contact: (800) 468-2567 or www.britishfires.ca.

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gaswater biofuelelectric

The Elements of Luxury

When the two leaders of fireplace innovation come together you get next-level luxury. Expand your customer base with the ultimate selection of fuel sources to meet everyone’s needs. You have to see to believe.

San Simeon EverTeak Console Table

Alfresco Home is pleased to intro duce the San Simeon EverTeak Col lection. EverTeak is an innovative engineered polymer composed of unique virgin plastics to look and feel like real wood, and it is com pletely recyclable. Coloration is all the way through, and the material is manufactured with premium UV in hibitors. The San Simeon EverTeak Console Table comes in two ele gant maintenance-free colors–a light “Mineral” color and a darker “Al paca” color. Visit Alfresco Home’s new showroom in the Atlanta Americas Mart Building 1, 5th Floor, Suite #5D6, call (610) 705-8808, or go to www.alfrescohome.com.

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Big Green Egg Cast Aluminum Pizza Oven Wedges

The Big Green Egg Pizza Oven Wedges create a traditional brick oven set up with a front opening that makes it easy to slide pizzas in and out of the EGG without any temperature loss. With the wedges in place, the EGG temperature holds for hours where you set it, in a range from 400°F/204°C to 700°F/370°C. The EGG enables proper heat retention while baking multiple pizzas. Fits the Large EGG for pizzas up to 14 inches (36 cm). Contact: (770) 938-9394 or www.biggreenegg.com.

The New “FireIn” Logs from Mendota

It’s all about the fire— the authenticity, beau ty, and warmth. Men dota’s “FireIn” technol ogy wraps the logs around the burner. Art fully arranged logs reach for the sky and Mendota’s signature glowing embers and hand-painted, high-defini tion oak and birch logs set the mood and bring the magic. The FireIn logs and burner will be on

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SunStar Glass

from AEI Corporation

The SunStar Glass is a wind and rain resistant patio heater devel oped to warm a vari ety of hard-to-heat ar eas and extend the use of outside areas. The SunStar Glass is ideal for restaurant pa tios, outdoor enter tainment, and dining areas as well as resi dential patios and porches. The SunStar offers two heat settings and can operate on a powerful 35,000 BTU on colder days or a softer 24,000 BTU on milder days. Contact: (949) 474-3070 or www.aeicorporation.com.

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Midnight Mist Cove Edge Gas Fire Pit Bowl

Plaza Luxury Fireplace

Plaza fireplaces are engineered with unlimited design and installation ca pabilities for every room. With the innovative heat redistribution system, finishing materials can be brought up to the fireplace opening. This also al lows for a TV, artwork, or mantel to be safely installed above the fireplace. The Plaza’s power vent technology allows the vent greater run lengths and the ability to vent down below the fireplace, letting the Plaza complement almost any location. Contact: (800) 851-3153 or www.plazafireplace.com.

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The Midnight Mist Cove Edge Gas Fire Pit Bowl seam lessly integrates into contemporary landscaping with its unique edge design. A unique Midnight Mist Supercast finish allows the focus to be on the stunning dancing flames. The organic nature of the concrete is unique to each fire pit. Color variations and casual pitting are common attributes to the fire pit. Contact: (866) 303-4028 or www.outdoorrooms.com.

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display in the 44i insert and the FV41 at the shows in Las Vegas and Louisville. Contact: mendotahearth.com.

Kendall Sling Armless Café Chair

A practical but exciting new introduction for 2023: Kendall Sling Armless Café Chair. De signed with the same sleek lines you know and love from the Kendall Sling Collection of fered by Telescope Casual. This armless chair is the perfect item to maximize the number of seats around a table! Pairs best with the new 48” x 96” MGP Top Table or the 42” x 120” extension tables. Contact: (518) 642-1100 or www.telescopecasual.com.

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New Forest Electric 48”

The New Forest Electric 48” takes flame technology to the next level. The LED flame visuals offer deep, realistic fires and spread through out the reflective liner, utilizing every angle. The signature logs are crafted from high-quality materials that perfectly fit together to cap ture every detail you would expect to see when walking in the New Forest of England. Distributed across North America by Miles In dustries Ltd. To experience the New Forest’s next-level electric flame tech nology, visit a local authorized dealer to learn more. Contact: (800) 4682567 or www.britishfires.ca.

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Le Griddle –Tasty Cooking

The greatest innovation in outdoor grilling since the invention of the BBQ—your customers will love to complete their outdoor kitchen with the most versatile griddle ever made and share exciting new cook ing experiences with family and friends. Perfect for any meal, cook mouthwatering dinners, lunches and even breakfast. Le Griddle is currently adding more dealers across the U.S. Contact: www.legriddleus.com.

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Carol Rose Outdoor Linear Fireplace

This fall, gather your friends and family around a Carol Rose outdoor linear seethrough fireplace. This 48-inch outdoor fireplace includes easy-to-use controls to adjust the flames and change the color of the LED under-lighting. Learn more about the Carol Rose Coastal Collection by becoming a White Mountain Hearth dealer to day! Contact: (800) 851-3153 or www.whitemountainhearth.com.

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Mia Collection

Imagine ridding the ocean of harmful trash just by relaxing in your fa vorite chair. Made with recycled ocean plastic, the Mia collection from Ebel allows you to do just that. With its clean, modern lines and natural tones, this group not only fits your lifestyle, but also your desire for environmental responsibility. Available in a variety of seating and sectional pieces in two neutral frame finishes: Fog and, new for 2023, Barley (shown). Contact: (866) 752-6320 or www.ebelinc.com.

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C60 Tall Linear Fireplace

Enviro’s C series has a new addition. The C60 Tall Linear Gas Fireplace takes everything people loved about the original C60 and adds 6 inches of glass height. This fire place is compatible with two brand-new log sets: Signature Traditional and Signature Birch. Learn more about the C60 Tall at enviro.com.

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Metro Sling Deep Seating

Windward’s new Metro Sling Deep Seating collection features the sleek bold lines and distinctive contemporary coastal elegance of the Metro Dining collection, complement ed with deeper, wider, ultra-comfortable low-maintenance deep seating sling seats. Sculpted powder-coated aluminum frames and beautiful weather-resistant sling fabrics bring handcrafted, made in the USA modern luxury to any home. Contact: (941) 3590890 or www.windwarddesigngroup.com.

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Impression Collection from Maiori Design

Via Seaside introduces the Impression Collection from Maiori Design. Fea turing Dining, Bar and Lounge seating and tables, the Impression Collec tion impresses with aluminum and sling styles designed to last while mak ing a statement in any outdoor setting. Impression is one of many new in troductions from Seaside Casual’s Via Seaside line of outdoor accessories, lighting, and furniture. Contact: www.viaseaside.com.

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Born in Texas, Made in America

Renaissance Cooking Systems’ newest line of made-in-America products is just what your cus tomers want in their backyard. This lineup, along with RCS doors/drawers, sinks and refriger ation options, offers your cus tomers high-quality products they can enjoy for a lifetime. Contact: www.rcsgasgrills.com.

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Cooking Grills for Defiant and Encore Wood Stoves

Like the Daunt less, the Defi ant and Encore will have a cooking option in early 2023! Your customers can connect around food and flame all year long. With Vermont Castings’ stainless-steel cooking grills, they can simply insert the cooking grill into the top-load access, add their favorite foods, and savor tasty wood-fla vored meals. Contact: (877) 863-4350 or www.vermontcastings.com.

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Pit Boss Vertical Barrel Charcoal Smoker

Create competition-style bar becue worthy of a blue ribbon with the Champion Charcoal Barrel Smoker by Pit Boss Grills. Perfect for everyone from a bar becue beginner to a true Pit Boss, the Champion can han dle all your BBQ needs with its 1,150 square inches of cooking space and large hanging ca pacity. This smoker comes complete with folding side shelves for food prep, an easy-access charcoal basket for refueling, and a built-in dolly that makes transport a breeze. Contact: (877) 3033134 or www.pitboss-grills.com.

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Mombo Gas Log System

The Mombo gas log system by Eik lor Flames is an exclusive, patent ed, large twoburner technolo gy for small and huge fully vented commercial and residential fire places or firepits— for indoor and outdoor use. Sizes range from 3 to 10 feet long. Con tact: (888) 295-5647 or www.eiklorflames.com.

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Renaissance Le BOL Grill

Le BOL Grill lets you cook over an open wood fire la plancha style. Its sphere design trans forms a cooking space into an exquisite outdoor social grilling experi ence. Designed to stay outside and to cook all year long, Le BOL gener ously radiates heat for cool weather grilling. Available in oxidized patina or black. Contact: (450) 565-6336 or renaissancefireplaces.com.

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Epic Oak (AKA “Big Eddy”)

Big logs for BIG fireplaces. Inspired by the late Eddy Birn baum, The Fireplace Man (Houston), one of Golden Blount’s most beloved customers with a larger-than-life personality. Eddy prided himself on wanting the biggest and best. The largest model to date, this log set features glowing front embers between split weath ered logs. A two-staged burner with elevated rear burner and adjustable front burner allows for optimal flame heights. Comes in Natural Gas or LP in in 24”, 30”, 36”, 42”, 48”, 60”, & 72.” Contact: (800) 833-1139 or www.goldenblountinc.com. Circle Reader Service No. 138

Opal Glass Candle

The Opal Glass Candle’s classic look makes it a great decoration piece for most styles of homes and events. Furthermore, the wind-re sistant feature is enhanced by the design with a glass-shield, which makes it perfect for outdoor activi ties. Enjoy the clean-burning flame indoors and outdoors at ease any time and anywhere. Contact: (909) 781-8462, www.lovinflame.com, or hello@lovinflame.com.

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Atmosphere Gi29 Gas

Inserts

Introducing Regency’s newest gas insert, the Atmosphere Gi29, featuring revolutionary Infusion Burner Technology. A refined fire box provides an extra-large viewing area, while allowing the Gi29 to fit into more spaces. The all-new Infusion Burner Technology de livers an unparalleled realistic log and flame picture. With a burner embedded into the log set, the infusion burner allows the flames to wrap elegantly around the logs to create an unmatched realistic look. Contact: (604) 946-5155 or www.regency-fire.com.

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Outdoor entertaining. Year-round.

More than ever, people are entertaining outdoors.

When you specify Infratech heaters, you can enjoy up to 100 more nights a year of versatile style and eco-friendly comfort in your outdoor living space. Our wide array of products includes our Motif collection of decorative fascias and 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 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 your heating system that’s a seamless fit with your property.

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C-Series and CD-Series heaters feature a slim design and compact profile.

Delano

The Delano collection has a modern livable style that assimilates to count less settings. The clean modern frame design features a scratch-resistant wood grain finish with arms wrapped with High Density Polyethylene rope added to this beautiful modern design, which will complement any out door room environmental setting. The collection is available with a sofa, loveseat, lounge chair, and a deep seating swivel rocker and ottoman. Contact: (866) 690-5673 or www.patiorenaissance.com.

Kinney Fire Pit Table

The Kinney Fire Pit Table features an ultra-modern design that is per fect for entertaining. The low-profile base meets a contemporary top to ensure your focal point is the main attraction on your patio. Extra tabletop space makes it convenient for entertaining guests. Gather everyone around the 12” x 24” Crystal Fire Plus burner for a cozy, re laxing time. Contact: (866) 303-4028 or www.outdoorrooms.com.

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Lakefield XL

The original Lakefield stove was one of the most successful-selling freestanding stoves on the market and the first Kozy Heat model to be introduced with a Minnesota town name. This iconic stove was retired in 2014, but Kozy Heat is ex cited to announce the latest addition to its gas-freestanding stove lineup— the Lakefield XL. With a powerful 40,000 BTU heater, high-definition log set, and heavy-duty construction, this fireplace is perfect in almost any home. Contact: (800) 253-4904 or www.kozyheat.com. Circle

Avana

The Avana padded sling has been released with OW Lee’s 42” x 120” tabletop. The new padded sling offers the durability of OW Lee’s sling fabric with the added comfort of Dacron fiber padding. It is available in 15 sling colors in all fabric options in the Avana and Marin Collections. Contact: (800) 776-9533 or www.owlee.com. Circle

Tabletop

Firepit

Lovinflame tabletop Firepits are freestand ing and portable, al lowing you to enjoy clean-burning, windresistant, and odor less flames indoors or outdoors. They are the perfect companion for house hold gatherings and events. The technology is powered by Lovinflame’s pro prietary stainless steel wick and ethanol-free fuel, which minimizes emissions, flare-ups, and risks associated with fuel spills. Contact: (909) 7818462, www.lovinflame.com, or hello@lovinflame.com.

Replacement Cushions | Made in the USA

NorthCape’s expand ed replacement cush ion program has hun dreds of styles and sizes of replacement cushions and acces sory pillows for North Cape furniture and other furniture manufacturers. Full custom cushion capabilities. A variety of premium Sunbrella and Belenos fabrics are available with short lead times. Well-priced and made in the USA. Contact: www.northcape.com.

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Stromboli

Rotating Wood Stove

A wood burning stove that ro tates 360º—the Stromboli from Romotop, Czech Repub lic. The pedestal base brings the flames up higher into view for all to enjoy. Beautifully de signed with sleek lines, an oval shape and a large firebox that offers high efficiency and flawless performance. Features include a glass window that measures 16” wide and 20” high, an air wash system that keeps the glass clean, and a choice of dark gray steel, tile, natural stone, or sandstone. Turn your fire around with the Stromboli. Contact: (914) 764-5679 or www.wittus.com. Circle

Coconut Grove –New Counter and Bar

Inspired by the sprawling ancient banyan trees of the historic neighbor hood of Coconut Grove in Florida, the intricately handwoven UV-resistant Durastrap and Durarope seek to mimic the beautiful branches of the banyan trees. The chic hand-brushed pearl colored powder-coated aluminum legs are tapered to wrap around the dual-colored polyolefin Durastrap and Durarope. The cushy rounded cushions offer maximum comfort. Available in Living, Sectional, Daybed, Dining, Counter, and Bar. Contact: (866) 919-1881 or www.ratana.com.

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Clementi

Since 1975, family pride is built into every Clementi prod uct. Only the highest quality materials like food-grade stainless steel are combined with Italian craftsmanship and painstaking quality control to build every Clementi pizza oven outdoor product. Weighing in at up to 50% more than the competition, The Vulcan Group gives you margins up to 25% higher. Clementi—The King of Fire! Contact: (860) 639-8284 or www.thevulcangroup.com.

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Gemuetlichkeit – Spartherm Module

The Spartherm 700 Module with a Base C bench fits perfectly in every living style. From conserva tive to extremely modern, it will always be the center point of the room. Stylish and reduced in the design with perfect German engineering of more than 35 years of experience in the firing busi ness. Also available as 600 Module and different bases. Contact: Spartherm-America / Markus Aumann / m.aumann@spartherm.com / 0049-15222644162.

Heritage Collection

The Heritage Collection by Elmira Stove Works captures the spirit of home with 1850s period-style appli ances backed by three generations of superior craftsmanship, customiza tion, and color expertise. Premiumgrade features such as dual-fuel cook ing, six-burner cooktops, true con vection ovens, French-door fridge ca pacity, and LED lighting offer highperformance functionality—while sev en standard colors and virtually unlim ited custom colors provide ultimate design versatility. Heritage appliances complement a range of kitchen aes thetics—from modern farmhouse to Victorian chic to cabin-inspired styles. Contact: (800) 295-8498 or www.elmirastoveworks.com.

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New Ventura Collection

By Gensun

Ventura is a streamlined transition al design with a unique use of ma terials. The collection features a natural look synthetic wicker hand woven onto an extruded alu minum frame and teak-finished aluminum arms that give the warm look of wood without the mainte nance. Contact: (866) 964-4468 or www.gensuncasual.com.

Circle

CD-Series Fixtures

The powerful dual-element CD-Series fixtures from Infratech provide concen trated heat for larger-scale applications in high visual impact locations. CD-Se ries features include minimal clearance requirements, recessed mounting op tions, inset brackets that create a “floating” effect, and mounting heights between 7-12 feet. These heaters are available in a range of colors to coordinate with your in terior or exterior environment. Choose from brushed stainless steel or eight standard color options. All are proudly made in the USA. Contact: (800) 421-9455 or www.infratech-usa.com.

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Real Fyre G52

Radiant Fyre Vented Burner

The Real Fyre G52 Radi ant Fyre Vented Burner offers advanced fea tures including an ex clusive stainless steel “Booster Grid” that acts as a catalyst—increas ing the intensity of the fire. The exclusive logs compatible with this set are specially designed to work synchronously with the Booster Grid, retaining and radiating heat. Contact: (630) 241-0506 or email sales@fandcdistributors.com.

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Marin

The Marin collection takes inspiration from the Northern California coastal community of Marin County, located just north of San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge. Taking cues from both natural elements as well as modern design, Marin exemplifies the relaxed yet sophisticated nature of the area. Contact: (800) 776-9533 or www.owlee.com.

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Nordik 29i

Vieques

The Patio Renaissance Vieques collection features old-world Euro pean styling or, if you prefer, European modern. The collection uses a variety of all-weather material such as aluminum frames, scratch-re sistant wood grain finish, and all-weather wicker captured within the frame design for a luxurious design feature. The collection is avail able in sofa, loveseat, lounge chair, deep seat swivel rocker, otto man as well as matching dining pieces. Contact: (866) 690-5673 or www.patiorenaissance.com.

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This new series focuses on clean lines, functionality, and warmth, and can be incorporated into virtually any home. An innovative burner design and high-definition log set give the Nordik series inserts the most realistic burn appearance available. Plus, compatible Roosevelt Series fronts and accessories optimize warehouse space. Given the rich Scandinavian heritage that Kozy Heat celebrates in Minnesota, it only seemed fitting that this influence be matched to a bold new series—the Nordik Series. Contact: (800) 253-4904 or www.kozyheat.com.

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Varia B-FDh

The Varia B-FDh is a see-through fireplace with a large 41” x 19” glass, mak ing it a perfect room divider between the living room and kitchen or any open, multifunctional living space. One side has a hinged door, the other an elevating door. It is a masterpiece in the middle of your living area. Contact: Spartherm-America / Markus Aumann / m.aumann@spartherm.com / 0049-15222644162.

Valor H5

The V-Class burner system takes the Valor H5 to new heights with improved fires, re alistic log sets, and radiant warmth. A diverse fireplace that blends distinct, high-quali ty materials with the latest in ra diant and convective heat technology, the H5 caters to those seeking a modern flame appeal. The H5 offers three unique fuel beds: birch, tradi tional logs, and driftwood. The built-in secondary heat exchanger naturally improves convective heat—re moving the need for a fan. The V-Class burner will soon be available in the H6 fireplace! Contact: (800) 468-2567 or www.valorfireplaces.com.

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Winter Wood Birch Vented Gas Logs

The ultimate birch set, with highly textured knots and hand-painted details. Sizeable bottom logs give the log set more height than most other birch log sets. Comes in 18”, 21”, 24”, 30”, & 36.” See-through sets available. A 5/8” grate, large number of embers, and black lava rock included with set. Not recommended for LP gas. Contact: (800) 833-1139 or www.goldenblountinc.com. Circle

Breezesta Farmhouse Rocker

There’s nothing like starting your day with hot coffee while sitting in a soothing, traditional rocker that looks like new, season after season! Breezesta premium HDPE lifestyle furniture is exceptionally comfortable and sized for every body. You’ll find a supportive high back, large seat, front waterfall, and a perfect pitch for all rocker lovers! Choose from 20 unique colors in solid or two-tone. Made in the USA, ecofriendly, and with a limited lifetime warranty. Contact: (717) 351-7177, CLUcustomerservice@keter.com, or breezesta.com.

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American Fyre Designs Fire Features with USB Ports

American Fyre Designs (AFD) is bringing even more conven ience to the outdoor room. AFD models with Fyrestarter Bluetooth Control now feature two USB ports (A & C) for easy charging of phones, outdoor speakers, and more while enjoying the warmth, beauty, and ambiance of your outdoor firetable, firebowl, or firepit. Easily accessible and weatherproof, the USB ports elevate the fire features’ functionality in any outdoor space. Unwind and recharge with American Fyre Designs. Contact: (800) 332-3973 or www.americanfyredesigns.com.

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54 Volume III Collection

Celebrating its 100-year anniver sary, Tempotest USA introduces the 54 Volume III collection. The recent launch consists of over 40 SKUs of new solids, fresh stripe designs, and luxurious textures. Colors range from Turquoise, Indi go, Sapphire to Coral, Clay, Pewter, Mercury, and Onyx. All Tempotest performance fabrics are made with 100% solution-dyed acrylic fibers. Contact: (972) 5123534, or www.tempotestusa.com.

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The regional sales manager (RSM) at Alfresco Home holds a senior sales position and serves as the primary relationship owner for an assigned geographic territory. Within the territory, the RSM will have the responsibility of direct customer accounts and responsibility for developing and managing the indirect sales channel. The RSM is fully responsible for the net sales revenue growth of his or her territory.

Responsibilities of the RSM include territorial sales growth, customer retention, new prospect development and independent representa tive and distributor account management. The RSM is responsible for development and execution of sales plans for their assigned territory, preparation and delivery of regular status and result updates.

The RSM ensures a deep understanding of all accounts in the territory, an in-depth knowledge of all Alfresco Home activities, sales, product, and marketing plans. The RSM will maintain an educated position with a firm knowledge and adept use of all technology in support of sales initiatives. The RSM plays an active roll in the development of all business and strategy for territory.

The position requires frequent travel throughout the territory, and the ideal candidate should reside within the Southeastern USA.

Interested candidates can contact Joseph Cilio at jc@alfrescohome.com www.alfrescohome.com

U33 Fireplace

The new U33 Gas fire place from Urbana Luxury Fireplaces is a modern take on the traditional fire place format. It can be in stalled as a single-sided unit or see-through. Its slim construction has a very minimal installation re quirement, and it’s avail able in a square or 60” tall variation. Learn more about the U33 at  urbanafireplaces.com.

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Northstar Collection

The Northstar Collection by Elmira Stove Works combines fresh colors, chrome accents, and elegant curves that channel the style of a bygone era. Available in nine classic colors and virtually unlimited custom col ors. The modern features will expand your kitchen’s performance with sealed gas burners, convection ovens, LED fridge lighting, and fil tered water dispensers. Northstar appliances are ideal for midcentury modern, coastal design, contempo rary, and inspired craftsmen interiors—sold through dealers across North America. Contact: (800) 295-8498 or www.elmirastoveworks.com.

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New Echelon Woven Collection

By Gensun

Lightweight and durable, Echelon is great for bal conies, terraces, or around the pool. When extra seat ing is needed for large gath erings or more space to play, the dining chair, lounge chair, and chaise are stackable. In addition to Echelon’s sling and padded sling options is a new Ivory woven option. Contact: (866) 964-4468 or www.gensuncasual.com.

Universal Controls

Infratech knows that its cus tomers have dif ferent needs when it comes to the controls they choose for their properties. This is why Infrat ech offers a broad range of custom control options that allow you to enjoy heaters “your way.” The Universal Control works with any Bluetooth/Wi-Fi dimmer or with apps compatible with Alexa, Siri, or the Google Home Assistant. All of these products are Proudly Made in the USA. Contact: (800) 421-9455 or www.infratech-usa.com.

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Real Fyre G31 3-Tiered Vented Burner

The Real Fyre G31 3-Tiered Vented Burner sets the bar for vented burners. The burner itself is designed in a way to provide you with a beautiful, full-bodied flame, all while using less BTUs. The porcelainized reflective front panel provides a sense of depth to the ember bed and enhances the overall experience. Contact: (630) 241-0506 or email sales@fandcdistributors.com.

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IgniteXL Bold Linear Electric Fireplace

The IgniteXL Bold Linear Electric Fireplace sets a new standard for flame realism, customization, and installation. Featuring a panoramic view and available in 50, 60, 74, 88, and 100-inch lengths, the IgniteXL Bold can be installed as a single-sided, right or left corner, or bay style fire place. For a bolder statement, connect up to five units (maximum length: 500 inches) to create a dramatic focal point. End users will enjoy options for mood lighting, color effects, and flame settings to customize and change the aesthetic. And the IgniteXL Bold is perfectly designed for four seasons, with heat, flame only, and air circulation settings. Contact: (800) 668-6663 or dimplex.com. Circle

Meet us in Music City for the leading gathering of the outdoor furnishings industry where you can enhance your business perspective and skill sets!

• Keynote presentations by top-notch thought leaders and experts, an array of breakout sessions and roundtable discussions.

• Ample networking opportunities throughout the program to renew old friendships and make new contacts.

• Vendor showcase offers display of leading outdoor living products plus demonstrations by industry service providers.

• Retail design tour to four exceptional outdoor specialty stores.

• Good food, good drink and fun social activities!

Scan for hotel information and registration details.

Trivista Pictura

With growing market segments in condos and rentals, a fireplace with a simple installation is a must. The new Trivista Pictura is just that, a unique three-sided electric wall mount designed for easy installation at an attrac tive price point. The Trivista Pictura can be installed in virtually any room to provide instant design enhancement and cozy warmth. Plus, enjoy the multicolored LED ember bed and flames year-round with the option to op erate with or without heat. Contact: (866) 820-8686 or www.napoleon.com.

Contemporary Ceramic Stoves

The Stack stove from La Castellamonte, Italy, is designed with style in mind. A contemporary wood burning home heater made by arti sans from local clay, each stove is a master piece. The Stack stove is based on the concept of modular components, which incorporate sections that are “stacked” on top of each other to cre ate the stove. Available in two sizes: 44” or 54” high, and four distinct base options: Round Stack wood, Slim, Rim or long. Available in a variety of whimsical colors that offer design flexibility. Contact: (914) 764-5679 or www.wittus.com. Circle Reader Service No. 171

Breezesta Palm Beach Dining

It’s hard to believe this is poly furniture! Fashioned after mid-century industrial design with clean, geometric lines, and generous proportions, plus the benefits of all-season, premium HDPE material. Comfortable enough to linger and read the paper all morning. The Palm Beach Collec tion also includes modular deep seating for complete entertaining in style. Choose from 20 unique colors in solid or two-tone. Made in the USA, eco-friendly, with a limited lifetime warranty. Contact: (717) 351-7177, CLUcustomerservice@keter.com, or breezesta.com. Circle Reader Service No. 173

Fire Magic Pizza Oven Island

The Fire Magic Pizza Oven isn’t just for ar tisan-style pizza. You can bake, broil, and more with ther mostatic control up to 750° F. Truly a complete outdoor oven, the built-in Pizza Oven boasts a ceramic glass viewing window in an easy-access door. Now available in a durable glassfiber reinforced concrete island package, the Pizza Oven Island includes a Fire Magic refrigerator and is offered in Smoke and White colors, each fea turing a black countertop. Designed to accommodate other Fire Magic ap pliances, in place of the Pizza Oven, the island can feature the Fire Magic Echelon 660 or Aurora 660 models as well as an Echelon 660 Built-in Grid dle. Contact: (800) 332-3973 or www.firemagicgrills.com.

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DirectVent Pro

DuraVent has been the leader in venting direct vent appli ances for 30 years. DirectVent Pro offers the most pipe lengths, elbow angles, ad justables, and terminations in the market. The newest addi tion to the product line is Concentric Flex, which offers preassembled and unitized construction. Its compacted lengths can be stretched with factory ends allowing it to attach directly to the appli ance. Wondering which direct vent to choose? The answer is DirectVent Pro. Contact: (800) 835-4429 or www.duravent.com.

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Wildfire 42” Grill & 30” Griddle

Black is the new stainless steel, and Wildfire Outdoor Living is introduc ing all-inclusive outdoor kitchen products to prove it. These profes sional-grade grills, burners, and griddles have the durability and fire power to deliver unmatched performance while turning heads with its sleek, black 304 commercial grade stainless steel. This stylish island shows the whole package, complete with the Ranch Pro 42” grill, 30” griddle, large ice chest, pull-out trash drawer, and black stainless-steel doors. Contact: (602) 344-4840 or www.wildfireoutdoorliving.com.

Hoxter – ALL NEW HAKA 78/57 Swing Door models

Hoxter is known for its incredible wood-burning technology along with large, double pane glass that keeps the viewing area crys tal clear and efficiency levels up. These new swing door models have aggressive retail MAP pric ing starting at $4,499.99. Hox ter’s quality of construction, heat output, and serviceability are leaps ahead of the competition. The best technology starts with the details. Contact: (860) 639-8284 or www.the vulcangroup.com.

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Orion Series Virtual Electric Fireplace

The future is virtual, and it’s now. Experience it in any room with the Orion Slim, and in four view types with Orion Multi. The Orion Series utilizes Modern Flames’ patent ed Heliovision flame technology to create the most realistic, multidimensional flames on the market. Showcase brilliance with a variety of flame choices and color options for ember bed, flames, and downlighting. Available in sizes ranging from 52” – 100.” Contact: (877) 246-9353 or www.modernflames.com.

Nantucket Picnic

Table

Windward’s new Nantucket Picnic Table is 100% made in the USA from solid premium marine grade polymer with recycled or polymer accents on the table top and seat slats. A touch of modern rustic flair and long-lasting low maintenance durability that effortless ly integrates with any style from traditional to contemporary.

Contact: (941) 359-0890 or www.windwarddesigngroup.com.

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Multi-Fire SL Slim Linear Electric Fireplace

Stylus

Cara Elite (Coming 2023)

Napoleon’s first smart elec tric fireplace, the innovative Stylus Cara Elite, aligns with consumer trends to engage a new audience for sales growth opportunities. Offer ing ultimate convenience with the Napoleon Home mobile app and voice con trol, home owners experi ence an instant enhancement to their space and boundless customization.

Featuring infi nite flame and ember color combinations to suit the design of the space, temperature adjustments in tune with the environment, and a favorites set ting to enhance any occasion. Contact: (866) 820-8686 or www.napoleon.com.

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At 3-3/4 inches deep, the Multi-Fire SL lets users incorporate a stylish, linear fireplace without compromising space. The slimmest built-in linear fireplace on the market, this exciting new fireplace fits flush into 2”x 4” framing, making it a great option for new construction or renovation. Available in 36, 42, 50 and 60-inch lengths, the Multi-Fire SL works equally well in smaller spaces like bedrooms, or as a feature on a large media wall. The Multi-Fire flame technology offers amazing realism, plus flame speed and color control. Users can heat up to 1,000 square feet or enjoy the flame-only setting. Contact: (800) 668-6663 or dimplex.com.

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Grandview G800 Gas Fireplaces

More models, more possibilities. The Grandview se ries continues to expand, offering the ultimate flexibil ity in traditional gas fireplaces. Now with an expanded BTU range, the Grandview offers mix-and-match ac cessories, flexible installation style (flush or faceplate surround finish), and optional zero clearance installs with Regency’s patented Cool Wall System. Offer customers more flexibility than ever before with simpli fied installation with Regency Grandview. Contact: (604) 946-5155 or www.regency-fire.com.

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not provide enough heat, they are hard to service, and they are not always safe. Our products go through rigorous test ing and meet CSA-certification stan dards because we want our customers to find the only product that they will need, rather than buying something that they will have to replace a year or two down the road.”

A CONCERTED EFFORT

For nearly 50 years, HPC has stood out in the minds of consumers. One way that the company has accomplished

this is through training and education. HPC takes a lot of care in providing not only technical support, but also in ensuring that customers are adequately trained and informed about best prac tices, safety, and overall functionality.

“We produce webinars, we visit our customers with a trailer loaded with our products, and we have a lot of other exciting developments underway,” Steimle says. “We will be launching both HPC University, a web-based education al platform for learning about HPC and our products, and a new R&D center,

which will house not only our research and development, but also a training cen ter where we will hold in-person classes that provide hands-on training, led by our dedicated training and education manager, Chuck Parsons.”

HPC also has stayed on top of the hearth trends, including paying atten tion to the consistent focus on the out door living segment of the industry and the potential it brings to the industry.

“The COVID-19 virus changed everyone’s lives. There is a new found, widespread appreciation for outdoor living spaces at home, and consumers are ready to take their property to the next level,” Steimle says. “We have seen some amazing creations in our customers’ back yards, and the passion and creativity behind those projects are showing no signs of going away.”

HPC is also focused on offering products that exude reliability and safe ty, as these are two critical components in providing the best experience with something like fire. “Safety, in particu lar, is second to none,” Steimle says.

LOOKING AHEAD

The HPC team is very excited about the company’s upcoming projects. Currently, they are working on a home automation system that will allow fire feature control to be incorporated into voice-activated devices.

“We also have been working hard at developing our patent-pending universal gas orifice. It will revolu tionize the way that gas is used in the industry by allowing our customers to adjust their orifice to whatever gas type they are using,” Steimle says. “That means less hardware and less hassle for everyone involved. Finally, we are working on our SmartArc technology, which will eliminate the need for a pilot and thermocouple entirely, simplify construction, installation, and troubleshooting, and will be more robust and reliable overall. We have already been through millions of test cycles with out failure, so we are looking forward to incorporating that technology. These products are set to launch within the very near future.”

SHIFT IN DESIGN

While manufacturing and sales head to a welcome normal, Ebel’s product design process is reflective more of a shift due to accommodation. When acquiring fabric and foam was challeng ing, Ebel was led to create more collec tions refocused on the use of textiles as well as more collections incorporating mixed-media components.

“We had to get so flexible working with what we had, and didn’t have,” Bottemiller says. “Hopefully to get even lower lead times, the biggest thing in the last two seasons was how we got away from the use of cushions. The non-avail ability of fabric and cushion elements has driven furnishing preferences toward more cushion-less designs.”

Ebel’s design decisions are the prod uct of a diverse team made up of the company’s management team, mem bers of the Ebel family, and its repre sentative advisory team. Inspiration is regarded as limitless with concepts being collected also from its representa tive community and dealer network.

“We get our product design inspira tions from everywhere. We ask our retail partners what is working and what trends they see in the store as far as aesthetics,

colors, and materials,” Bottemiller says. “All of that goes into the mix as we talk about 2023 and 2024.”

“While all introductions are devel oped from feedback, design publica tions, and a general awareness of what is occurring in the world, the products have to fit into the marketplace,” Bottemiller says. “We love ultra-cool designs, but we are not doing some thing if it is not retail-able. Ultimately, we want the new products on the retailer floor to sell.”

INTRODUCTORY EXPANSION

Known primarily as a woven manufatur er, Ebel’s shift in design also has impact ed this position. For the next season, the company’s top-selling group is not a woven collection, but the Palermo, an aluminum design. Ebel retailers are rec ognizing this construction move and interest is growing in offering more alu minum frames with wicker buckets and accents. The mixing of media is another positive shift occurring.

“We also see a shift in coloration,” Bottemiller says. “There are less gray and more browns and earth tones, including lighter hues and weathered tones.”

In an effort to lessen wait times and

eliminate elements not easily attainable, Ebel’s new collections are being created without cushions. The new LaSalle col lection was introduced with a unique mid-century modern motif crafted total ly without cushions on dining or deep seating. Contemporary styling was used in the Canton that was designed with aluminum accents and an enhanced cushioning weave design. Featured on the Antibes Collection’s mixed-media designs are aluminum arms and a wide polyethylene weave all crafted with a non-cushion, exposed look.

“This season’s collections also saw major expansion within some of our customer favorites,” Bottemiller says. “Through being able to work closely and efficiently with our internal teams, we focused on design growth via addi tions in colors and constructions to existing as well as new collections.”

CONTINUED COMMITMENT

While the Ebel website states, “beautiful designs and superb construction are Ebel family traditions,” another initiative also highlights a major commitment.

“As a company, we recognize that we have an environmental impact, and we are definitely looking at how we can off

set that impact,” Bottemiller says. “It is very much a big push, but it is not a new initiative. We are not bandwagoning the current environmental efforts. It has been an important focus and a longstanding commitment for Ebel for 15 to 20 years.”

In 2020, the Mia collection was introduced featuring a construction of 50% recycled ocean plastics. It proved to be a successful group for Ebel retailers and their customers.

Trees for the Future is another impor tant and ongoing initiative of the Ebel family and the company. Operating in degraded and deforested regions, Trees for the Future tackles climate change as well as world hunger through training of farmers to sus tainably revitalize lands. Through this collaboration, Ebel has been able to shine a light on its overall environ mental and outdoor focus.

Through meeting recent challenges, Ebel has experienced redefined sales methods, realigned product offerings, and a renewed focus on community commitment. Within Ebel, as within many entities in the casual industry, returning to normal is not only seen as a welcome outlook, but also a path to a bright future.

COR PORATE PROFI L E EBEL continued from page 54

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Advertiser Phone Website Page

AEI (949) 474-3070 www.aeicorporation.com 14

Alfresco Home (610) 705-8808 www.alfrescohome.com 7

Big Green Egg (770) 938-9394 www.biggreenegg.com 40

Breezesta (717) 351-7177 www.breezesta.com 48

British Fires (800) 468-2567 www.britishfires.com 11

CG Products (800) 833-5998 www.cgproducts.com 36, 73

Dansons, USA (877) 303-3134 www.dansons.com 83

Danver (203) 269-2300 www.danver.com 51

Dimplex (800) 668-6663 www.dimplex.com 67

DuraVent (800) 835-4429 www.duravent.com 34

Ebel (866) 752-6320 www.ebelinc.com 55

Eiklor Flames (888) 295-5647 www.eiklorflames.com 2

Elmira Stove Works (800) 295-8498 www.elmirastoveworks.com 17

Empire Comfort Systems www.empirecomfort.com 35

EMU Americas (303) 733-3385 www.emuliving.us 47

Enviro www.enviro.com 23

F&C Distributors (630) 241-0506 www.fandcdistributors.com 37

Gensun (866) 964-4468 www.gensuncasual.com 3

Golden Blount (800) 833-1139 www.goldenblountinc.com 49

Hearth & Home Technologies (888) 427-3973 www.hearthnhome.com 84

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

ICFA www.icfanet.org 77

IMC www.lasvegasmarket.com 79

Infratech (800) 421-9455 www.infratech-usa.com 71

Kozy Heat (800) 253-4904 www.kozyheat.com 61

Lovinflame (909) 781-8462 www.lovinflame.com 18

Mendota/NetZero Fire www.mendotahearth.com 65

Modern Flames (877) 246-9353 www.rpgbrands.com 19

Napoleon Products (866) 820-8686 www.napoleon.com 5

The Outdoor GreatRoom Company (866) 303-4028 www.outdoorrooms.com 44

OW Lee (800) 776-9533 www.owlee.com 15

Patio Renaissance (866) 690-5673 www.patiorenaissance.com 53

Ratana (866) 919-1881 www.ratana.com 45

Regency Fireplace (604) 946-5155 www.regency-fire.com 62, 63

Seaside Casual www.seasidecasual.com 69

Spartherm +49 1522 2644162 www.spartherm-america.com 25

Telescope Casual (518) 642-1100 www.telescopecasual.com 59

Tempotest USA (972) 512-3534 www.tempotestusa.com 9

Valor Fireplaces (800) 468-2567 www.valorfireplaces.com 41

The Vulcan Group (860) 639-8284 www.thevulcangroup.com 27

Windward Design Group (941) 213-5869 www.windwarddesigngroup.com 31

Wittus (914) 764-5679 www.wittus.com 57

PROFILES DIRECTORY

Company Page

AEI 64, 66

Alfresco Home 64, 66

American Fyre Designs (RH Peterson) 75

Big Green Egg 60, 66

Breezesta 75, 78

British Fires 64, 68

Danver 60, 64

Dimplex 76, 80

DuraVent 78

Ebel 60, 68

Eiklor Flames 64, 70

Elmira Stove Works 74, 76

EMU Americas 58, 64 Enviro 68

F&C Distributors 74, 76

Fire Magic (RH Peterson) 78

Gensun 74, 76

Golden Blount 71, 75

Heat & Glo (Hearth & Home Technologies) 58

Infratech 74, 76

Kozy Heat 72, 74

Le Griddle (CG Products) 68 Lovinflame 71, 72 Mendota 66 Modern Flames 80

Napoleon Products 78, 80 NetZero Fire 60

NorthCape 72

The Outdoor GreatRoom Company 66, 72

OW Lee 72, 74

Patio Renaissance 72, 74

Pit Boss Grills (Dansons) 58, 70

Plaza Fireplace (Empire Comfort Systems) 66 Ratana 58, 73

RCS Gas Grills (CG Products) 70

Regency Fireplace 71, 80

Renaissance Fireplaces (ICC-RSF) 70

Seaside Casual 60, 70

Spartherm 73, 75

Telescope Casual 60, 68

Tempotest 58, 75

Urbana Fireplaces (Enviro) 76

Valor Fireplaces 58, 75

Vermont Castings (Hearth & Home Technologies) 70

The Vulcan Group 73, 80

White Mountain Hearth (Empire Comfort Systems) 68

Wildfire Outdoor Living (Modern Flames) 78

Windward Design Group 68, 80

Wittus 73, 78

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. NOVEMBER/DECEMBER VOL. 17, NO. 6 © 2022 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 905035514, 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.

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