Kitchenware News August 2011

MARKET WATCH:

BUYERS GUIDE:

SPECIAL FEATURE:

HOLIDAY DÉCOR

THERMOMETERS & SCALES

KITCHEN ACCESSORIES

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H o u s e w, a r e s R e v i e w S E RV I N G K I T C H E N WA R E

VOLUME 17, NUMBER 8

H O U S E WA R E S A N D TA B L E T O P M A R K E T S

AUGUST 2011

Holiday Merchandise Spans the Seasons, but Christmas Is Still King

by Joanne Friedrick Although retailers have been working at expanding their sales to have fewer peaks and valleys, the truth remains that for many, the fourth quarter is the biggest sales season. And holiday-related merchandise is often a significant part of that equation.

For suppliers who provide holiday-themed merchandise, the challenge is to anticipate what consumers will want and what will leave retailers with the lowest amount of post-holiday sale products.

Chicago-based Trade Associates Group, better know as Tag, presents retailers with a combination of holiday and seasonal offerings, such as Halloween, Thanksgiving or fall and Christmas or winter.

Continued on Page 8

One on One: Dorothy Belshaw, Director of NYIGF

by Joanne Friedrick Kitchenware News & Housewares Review recently caught up with Dorothy Belshaw, Senior Vice President at GLM and Director of the New York International Gift Fair. The show, which opens Aug. 13 with exhibits at Piers 92, 94 and the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York, is incorporating the Gourmet Housewares Show this year. That event runs from Aug. 14 to 18. We talked with Belshaw about the GHS and what her goals are for this year’s NYIGF and the ones to come.

Q: The NYIGF is incorporating the Gourmet Housewares Show this year: How has GHS been meshed with the existing Tabletop division?

A: We already had some housewares resources in Tabletop, so for August we have created a Tabletop section with about 200 vendors and a separate Gourmet Housewares area with about 150 vendors.

The areas are adjacent, and Gourmet Housewares Continued on Page 12

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contents 6 9 10 22 26

GUEST COLUMN Lisa Falzone, Casabella

PRODUCT REVIEW RETAILER PROFILE BUYERS GUIDE AD INDEX b

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U.S. Shopping Center Industry Slows Growth Rate The U.S. shopping center industry grew to approximately 108,000 centers in 2010, according to the latest statistics from CoStar Group Inc., which were compiled on behalf of the International Council of Shopping Centers.

That marked the slowest U.S. industry growth—0.2 percent or 259 centers—on record since at least 1971 for which consistent data exist. Over the first four months of 2011, 50 new centers were tallied by the CoStar

Group, which continues to suggest a sluggish annualized rate of growth. Total shopping center space trends echo a similar pattern with a 0.2 percentage point gain in 2010 to 7.33 billion square feet of gross leasable area.

“This slow industry expansion in the United States is still part of an adjustment process from the aftermath of the 20072009 recession,” observed Michael P. Niemira, Vice President-Director of Research and Chief Economist for ICSC.

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“As the economy continues to grow, however, this more constrained expansion will improve the occupancy rates and make for a more profitable industry.”

Founded in 1957, ICSC is the global trade association of the shopping center industry.

Its more than 55,000 members in more than 90 countries include shopping center owners, developers, managers, marketing specialists, investors, retailers and brokers, as well as academics and public officials.

In all, LIMA presented 15 International Licensing Excellence Awards recognizing the best and most successful licensed properties and products in seven categories.

Nominations were solicited worldwide from across the licensing industry and winners were chosen by a vote of the LIMA membership.

“It is extremely gratifying to see the breadth and quality of the programs created by the licensing community from around the globe,” said Charles Riotto, President of LIMA. “The more than 220 entries represent the best of the best and the Association is proud to honor the winners for their ingenuity and for demonstrating licensing industry expertise.” www.kitchenwarenews.com

All awards are based on calendar year 2010. The winners, by category, are: Best Art/Design Program: Victoria and Albert Museum (by Victoria and Albert Museum/V&A Enterprises) Best Art/Design Licensee: Dom Pérignon (for Andy Warhol) Best Character/Toy Brand Program: Hello Kitty (by Sanrio Inc.) Best Character/Toy Brand Licensee: Hard Goods–Smart USA (for Hello Kitty) Best Character/Toy Brand Licensee: Soft Goods–Loungefly (for Hello Kitty) Best Corporate Brand Program: Animal Planet (by Discovery Communications/The Joester Loria Group) Best Corporate Brand Licensee: Shabby Chic for Simply Shabby Chic at Target

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PRODUCT SPECIALTIES Final Touch Electronic Wine Thermometer [tel] 877.668.0818 www.productspec.com

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PILLIVUYT USA Eden Black Bakers [tel] 952.938.1672 www.pillivuytus.com

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WILSHIRE INDUSTRIES Hue Bamboo Rainbow Wood Collection [tel] 949.492.9921 www.wilshireindustries.com

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Best Film, Television, Celebrity or Entertainment Licensee: Hard Good–LEGO (for Harry Potter)

IDEVICES igrill Wireless Cooking Thermometer [tel] 888.934.4745 www.igrillinc.com

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Best Film, Television, Celebrity or Entertainment Licensee: Soft Goods–Awake Inc. (for Glee)

KALORIK Kalorik Digital Kitchen Scale [tel] 305.430.9687, ext. 112 www.kalorik.com

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Toy Story 3 Named Top Licensing Program in LIMA Awards Toy Story 3 was presented the Best Licensed Program of the Year Award by the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association at the Licensing International Expo 2011 in Las Vegas in June.The third installment of The Walt Disney Co.’s animated comedy-adventure film series, Toy Story 3 was also honored in the entertainment award category.

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Best Film, Television, Celebrity or Entertainment Program: Toy Story 3 (by The Walt Disney Co.)

Best Sports Program: NASCAR Team Properties (by NASCAR and Teams)

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Best Sports Licensee: JAKKS Pacific Inc. (for Ultimate Fighting Championship) Best Licensed Promotion: Dove Glee (for All by 20th Century Fox Film Corp.)

Best Retailer: Boots (for Strictly Come Dancing)

MASTRAD Mastrad Herb Infuser [tel] 800.358.0608 http://shop.rolingpinonline.com VICTORINOX SWISS ARMY Granton Edge Santoku Knife [tel] 800.243.0852 www.surlatable.com

future

features SEPTEMBER Home Textiles Cookbooks Holiday Gift Guide Spice Jars & Spice Racks

Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

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publisher’s

note

We’re not long back from the Dairy-Deli-Bake, the annual trade show produced by the International DairyDeli-Bakery Association, where IDDBA Executive Director Carol Christison offered some thoughts on trends that she’s seeing that have serious implications for kitchenware and housewares retailers as well as for food retailers.

One of the most important is the increasing influence of Internet technology on what consumers buy, where they buy it and at what price, and on who’s shaping the reputations of companies and products in the marketplace. Christison compiled an impressive list of the resources that consumers have available to them on the Internet to help them make all of those decisions and to share those decisions with their immediate universe. As Christison pointed out, we’ve reached a time when consumers’ opinions can do more to shape the reputation of a product than its manufacturer’s marketing department can overcome and the information they have available to them on the Internet destroys a retailing model that relies on obsolete marketing methods.

What that all means is that it behooves retailers of all products to increase their awareness of the Internet resources shaping consumer behavior and to learn how to tap into them. For instance, Christison noted ShopSavvy, a mobile application that allows users to scan bar codes on products they see in stores to read product reviews and even to find out where else they might be able to get the same or similar products at a better price. The app is available for both the Apple and Android markets. Yowza!! is another mobile application that merchants are using to deliver coupons directly to local shoppers on their smartphones. Yowza!! claims that over 15,000 small and large merchants are already using its service, which is currently available only to merchants who have a physical store.

FastMall is an iPhone and Android application that directs users to shopping malls and to products and facilities inside them. Maps of over 1,100 malls in 25 countries are now offered. Users can use the app to get special offers at stores they’ve named as favorites.

TheFind is an online resource and mobile app that guides shoppers with product reviews, coupons, and information about what their Facebook friends are buying. Merchants can use the app to offer deals on their products to potential customers even while they’re actively shopping for that product in another store.

According to the Wall Street Journal, shoppers with smartphones and shopping applications now account for a small but rapidly growing number of shoppers. The newspaper cited research showing that on Black Friday of 2009, consumers using mobile devices accounted for just 0.1 percent of visits to retail websites, but by Black Friday of last year, they accounted for 5.6 percent. After just four weeks on the iPhone market, TheFind had already been downloaded 400,000 times, and RedLaser, an app that allows shoppers to scan bar codes to get information about products and prices, was downloaded 6 million times in the first year and a half after it was introduced by eBay Inc. Lee M. Oser, Publisher

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KITCHENWARE NEWS Housewares Review

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EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

EDITOR

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

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Lorrie Baumann lorrie_b@oser.com Joanne Friedrick joanne_f@oser.com [tel] 207.780.8656 Theresa Grant theresa_g@oser.com

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Valerie Wilson ads@oser.com

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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review is a publication of ELM Communications, a division of Oser Communications Group, Inc. 1877 N. Kolb Road Tucson, AZ 85715 www.oser.com

With the sights and sounds of the July 4th fireworks just a recent memory, my thoughts now turn to the fall and winter holidays as I write this. Some people may find that unsettling, but if you have anything to do with the retail industry, you well know that the fourth-quarter holidays are very much on everyone’s minds in the summer.

PRESIDENT

As the holiday décor Market Watch in this issue points out, prepping for the all-important fall and winter holidays is a long-term, year-round process for the designers, manufacturers and sellers of holiday merchandise.

Retailers are somewhere in the process of buying for the specific events of Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s as well as more general seasonal-related themes. And I’d wager, based on conversations I’ve had about this topic in the past, some store owners are heading into the home stretch, hoping to wrap up their purchasing before the first leaves fall. Still others are well into their planning for how they will merchandise their shops for each of these holidays based on the products they are adding to their stores.

Manufacturers may be still presenting and selling seasonal merchandise, but many are also already embarking on their product lines and catalogs for the fall and winter holidays of 2012.

As someone who has a major role in the annual Christmas fair for her church (which takes place in early November), I’m thinking about the holidays all year-round, too. You can find me watching a spring training baseball game on TV while crafting Christmas ornaments, or sewing festive yuletide-themed napkins when the outdoor thermometer is registering another day in the 80s. So I guess I don’t find it too shocking that there are plenty of others who are in a holiday mode in July, August and September.

In next month’s issue we continue our holiday theme with the Holiday Gift Guide, because we understand that while consumers may wait until Christmas Eve to start their shopping, retailers and manufacturers are contemplating Christmas even as the fireworks fade in the night sky.

Joanne Friedrick, Editor joanne_f@oser.com

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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

Lee M. Oser

Periodicals postage paid at Tucson, AZ and additional mailing office. Kitchenware News & Housewares Review (USPS012-625) is published 12 times per year (Jan., Feb., March, April, May, June, July, Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov. and Dec.) by Oser Communications Group, 1877 N. Kolb Road, Tucson, AZ, 85715 (520) 721.1300. Publisher assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material or prices quoted in newspaper. Contributors are responsible for proper release of proprietary classified information. ©2011 by Oser Communications Group. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or in part, without written permission of the publisher, is expressly prohibited. Back issues, when available, cost $8 each within the past 12 months. Back issue orders must be paid in advance by check. Kitchenware News & Housewares Review is distributed without charge in North America to qualified professionals in the retail and distribution channels of the upscale kitchenware and tabletop trade. For subscriber services, including subscription information, call (520) 721.1300. Printed in the USA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Kitchenware News & Housewares Review, 1877 N. Kolb Road, Tucson, AZ 85715.

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{ headlines } Bank Card Swipe Fee Reform Adopted

by Theresa Grant The Federal Reserve’s June 29 order directing banks to slash debit card “swipe fees” nearly in half is a move that has disappointed both retailers and bankers. The new, 21-cent-pertransaction cap is close to double the 12cent limit originally proposed by the Fed in December, but considerably less than the 44cent transaction fee currently charged by banks every time a retailer swipes a consumer’s debit card. Bankers can raise fees up to 27 cents per transaction when fraud protection safeguards are in place. The new limit, originally slated to take effect on July 21, has been delayed until Oct. 1.

In June, the U.S. Senate rejected a bill that would have imposed a two-year delay on implementation of the legislation, crafted under the 2010 Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, directing the Federal Reserve to set “reasonable and proportional” bank swipe fees charged by Visa, Mastercard and issuing banks for debit card transactions. The vote was considered a win for the retail and restaurant industries, which have been counter-lobbying against the bankers’ delay tactics since Dodd-Frank was passed last year.

But the Fed’s final order shocked retailer associations, such as the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Food Marketing Institute (FMI).

“The Federal Reserve very clearly did not follow through on the intent of the law,” said Mallory Duncan, NRF Senior Vice President and General Counsel. “This rule is unacceptable to Main Street merchants and consumers who were counting on the Fed to issue a reasonable and proportional rule. Unfortunately, this rule does not meet those qualifications.”

According to the NRF’s online swipe fee information center (http://swipefees.nrf.com), swipe fees have tripled over the past decade to nearly $50 billion a year, driving up prices

ALADDIN COLLAPSIBLE STEAMER SET The Aladdin Collapsible Steamer Set has a 32-ounce capacity. Features include a vented, see-through lid and a separate steamer tray that snaps into the lid for storage. The body collapses so the unit can be packed and stored flat. It is microwave and dishwasher safe.

Suggested Retail Price: $9.99 Aladdin-PMI [tel] 800.456.1233 www.aladdin-pmi.com www.kitchenwarenews.com

and costing the average U.S. household an estimated $427 annually.

“Today the voice of big banks drowned out the cries of consumers and Main Street merchants in the ears of the Federal Reserve,” said Leslie G. Sarasin, President and Chief Executive officer of FMI. “This ruling is inconsistent with the proposed ruling issued last December and utterly fails to be true to the spirit of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act passed more than a year ago. It will not provide sufficient reform for businesses that are

currently fighting high debit swipe fees.

Merchants and customers across America are the big losers today.”

The banking industry, asserting that price controls interfere with free market principles, promises that the end result will cost consumers.

The rule will still take a significant bite out of banks’ revenue. The limits will slice the industry’s annual debit-card revenue roughly in half to about $10 billion, according to consulting firm Oliver Wyman. That’s less than the $11.8 billion revenue hit that would have resulted if the Fed’s initial proposal had stuck. The Fed estimates large banks will

see their fee revenue decline by more than 40 percent under the revised rule.

“The final rule represents a 45 percent loss in revenue that banks use to provide low-cost accounts to our customers, fight fraud and maintain our efficient U.S. payments system,” said Frank Keating, American Bankers Association President and CEO. “This remains a real concern to banks everywhere and the consumers and communities they serve. Consumers will still feel the impact of this direct transfer of costs from big box retailers to everyday Americans. Consumers will see higher fees for basic banking services, and banks—particularly community banks— will still feel the revenue pressures that this rule will cause.”

guest

column Research, Responsibility, Reward

by Lisa Falzone Consumers no longer consume all the products we deliver to them. For many years, manufacturers and retailers could introduce vast amounts of housewares products with good packaging and competitive pricing and they could expect that a large percentage of these products would sell through.

Certainly manufacturers and retailers knew that some products would be “dogs,” but there were always some winners. Success sometimes just happened—even if a manufacturer or retailer didn’t do all the right things. As we all now know, the market has changed. Great product, even exceptional product offered at great prices, can just sit on the shelves.

Developing good product and good packaging and selling it at the right price is still important, but now we have to develop product that we know our potential customers want and we need to market it in ways and in venues they pay attention to. This can’t be figured out in isolation.

Consumer research, a step in the product development process that is frequently skipped because of time, money and sometimes even philosophical constraints, is now necessary—even if only on a limited basis. Retailers and manufacturers need to work more closely together than ever before, sharing information and data, to understand market shifts caused by behavior changes that could be caused by any number of factors.

Responsibility is as important as consumer research. The world news and global economic challenges create real and imagined obstacles to doing business. We need to filter through the messages we’re delivered on a daily basis and decide which paths to pursue and which to abandon.

To continue to move our businesses forward, we have to continually transform them to fit the constant changes in the cycle of business and create profitable CHANTAL TALAVERA COLLECTION Chantal Corp.’s new bakeware line, Talavera Collection,is a ceramic collection featuring bake-andserveware inspired by the intricate designs of century-old Mediterranean pottery. This collection transitions easily from oven to table, keeping foods warm and ready to serve. The non-porous glaze will not react with food or flavors, and every piece can be used in the oven, 6

Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

outcomes. We need to take responsibility for our businesses and empower those who work for us to do the same, pushing down decision making at all levels of the organization.

And finally, we need to reward our customers for shopping with us and buying our products. Certainly offering discounts or other incentives can be part of the marketing mix. However, more importantly, we need to offer excellent customer service.

This is not the time to cut back on programs or knowledgeable personnel.

Customers want and expect to be rewarded.

Customers can be rewarded with personal service, accessible and complete information and solutions to their concerns.

What is important in terms of customer service can be learned by asking customers through traditional research methods such as surveys and focus groups or through data gathered via a company’s website, Facebook page or other social media.

At Casabella, we are using several different methods of quantitative and qualitative consumer research to help discern consumer needs and gaps in the market; to help us make better, more informed decisions that help in reducing risk; to deliver consumer-centric products that focus on what the consumer wants in terms of product attributes, color, design, and functionality; and to also better understand what we’re doing right and what we can improve on. It’s all about 24/7 continuous improvement.

Lisa Falzone is Director of Marketing for Casabella, a creator of cleaning tools, kitchen and bath accessories and organizing products, based in Congers, N.Y. microwave, freezer and dishwasher.

Chantal has introduced three shapes—a 3.5-quart rectangular baker, a 3.5-quart oval baker and a 1-cup ramekin— each available in lime green,apple red and sea blue. There are also two sets available: The Bake Set, which includes 8" by 8" and 6" by 6" bakers and two recipes; and the Pie Set,with 9" and 7" pie dishes and two recipes.

Chantal Corp. [tel] 800.365.4354 www.chantal.com www.kitchenwarenews.com

{ headlines } Boston Warehouse to Produce Farberware Household Line In its latest evolution, Boston Warehouse has entered into a licensing agreement with Farberware to produce a household cleaning line that will span about 50 SKUs. In business for 37 years, Boston Warehouse is best known for its imported ceramics and whimsical holiday and entertaining products, but about five years ago, said Jennifer Dwyer, Vice President-Product Development for the Norwood, Mass.based company, the company expanded into gadgets with its Animalhouse line.

More recently, it added cleaning and gardening products with its Spotless Goddess and Gardening Goddess brands.

whimsical style, but we’ll keep a fashion angle,” she said. Farberware’s brand team does approve Boston Warehouse’s design concepts, she said, and because they are located nearby “it facilitates the ease of the process.”

Farberware introduced the stainless steel percolator in 1930. And stainless products continue to be part of the history of the brand, said Dwyer, so stainless will be an element in the cleaning tools that will launch at the 2012 International Home + Housewares Show in Chicago.

The initial launch will have some 50 items, she said, including cleaning basics such as brooms, a lobby set and microfiber mops and cloths. The target retailer for the Farberware line will be its existing client base—department stores and mass retailers. “The idea is to focus on that for the launch,” said Dwyer.

While Boston Warehouse has been involved in licensing on the artwork side for its own products, this is the first time the company has licensed a brand name. Dwyer said it was too early

by Joanne Friedrick to predict if the company will look at similar licensing opportunities, but David Heckert, Marketing Manager for Boston Warehouse, said, “One of our credits as a company is that we’re constantly evolving and examining what is happening in the market.”

Dwyer said Boston Warehouse will have a separate booth at the IHHS for the new line. “As a company, we’re incredibly excited about this launch,” she added. “It’s tough to innovate a broom, but we’re ready for the challenge.”

“We’re always looking at how the business will evolve,” explained Dwyer. “We looked at what we could do going forward and cleaning seemed like a natural extension.”

That was also true for Farberware, she said, which is known for its cookware, kitchen tools and appliances and saw cleaning products as a good fit.

“Farberware will be a departure from Boston Warehouse’s fun and functional approach,” said Dwyer, who noted that the 100-year-old Farberware brand has a specific design history that goes with it.

“This will be a departure from our

ZRIKE DISNEY MUGS These vintage-style Disney travel mugs will please Disney lovers of all ages.

The mugs are constructed from double-wall porcelain to create an insulated mug that will keep hot beverages warm and cold drinks icy cold. Included is a seal-tight silicone cover. The mugs are dishwasher and microwave safe.

Suggested Retail Price: $12.99 The Zrike Co. [email] Info@zrike.com www.zrike.com www.kitchenwarenews.com

Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

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holiday décor HOLIDAY DÉCOR (Cont. from p.1) “We try to approach it with consumers in mind who are looking for different ways to decorate,” said Floyd Sullivan, Tag’s Marketing Manager. Even within holidayspecific lines, he says, there are opportunities for customers to include some of the holiday-purchased items in their year-round decorating, such as decorative hurricane lamps that fit well on the Christmas dinner table but are just as appropriate in spring.

Tag also approaches the holidays by giving retailers choices on what moods or themes they want to convey to shoppers. It could be formal or whimsical or even a messagedriven theme such as Tag’s Hope, Peace and Joy collection.

“We try to be comprehensive,” explained Sullivan, adding that Tag has a large in-house design staff and a product development team. The company subscribes to various trend and color forecasting services, says Sullivan, as a means of gauging what is likely to catch fire with retailers. They also look at what has worked well in the past with materials and themes.

“It has to be somewhat analytical, but with that we are as innovative as possible,” said Sullivan.

Boston Warehouse takes a multi-pronged

approach to the holidays as well, said David Heckert, Marketing Manager for the Norwood, Mass., supplier.

Fall isn’t just about Thanksgiving, he said, but includes a football motif for one collection and apples for another.

“We have a lot of traditional icons for the holidays,” he said, and within those stories are special categories such as baking. The Sugar & Spice line, for example, features a muffin pan, ramekins, measuring cups or spoons and mixing bowls along with the traditional serving plates, candlesticks and mugs.

Boston Warehouse will always carry Santa, gingerbread and snowman-themed merchandise, said Jennifer Dwyer, Vice President-Product Development at Boston Warehouse, “because that is what we are known for. We’ve done safer stories—such as penguins—but with entertaining pieces we do well with the traditional icons.” And within these assortments, she said, retailers have plenty of room to make individual choices for their customers’ tastes.

Boston Warehouse has also extended its holiday thinking into one of its newest categories—home cleaning products.

“We’re looking at cleaning from a gifting perspective,” said Dwyer. Its holiday Spotless Goddess products include green

and red polka dot latex gloves, kitchen brushes and dustpan and broom sets. There are also kitchen brushes decorated with poinsettias.

“Having a poinsettia kitchen brush gives a more festive feel,” said Dwyer. “It was a risk, but with a little personality, it sells.”

For textile producer Peking Handicrafts, the strategy for holiday merchandise is to play with traditional ideas, but put a modern twist on them, said Derrick Lo, Managing Director for the San Franciscobased firm.

The company works with different licensed artists and designers to craft its collection and except for some fine-tuning, leaves most of the design work to the creator.

Among the newest licensees for Peking is Clare Mackie, who has created a line of pillows and kitchen towels with playful holiday scenes in vivid colors, such as a dancing cat wearing a Santa hat or a couple of witches toasting with glasses of wine.

Mackie, said Lo, “speaks to traditional imagery but with a new take on it.”

Peking concentrates on the fall holidays and seasons, said Lo, although it does some SKUs for summer and the Fourth of July.

“I think holiday is still pretty strong (from

a sales perspective),” he said, because customers love to decorate their homes for the holidays. “It’s a time for escape,” he added.

While much of the concentration around holidays is on the fourth quarter, Sullivan said Tag also creates themed-merchandise for Easter and spring, the Fourth of July and other summer-related ideas such as picnicking and gardening.

Halloween, which kicks off the fourthquarter selling season, has gotten very big, said Sullivan. Consumers are into the entertaining aspect of the holiday, he said, and are looking for specific items that they can use each year. Recognizing the popularity of Halloween, Sullivan said this year Tag positioned its Halloween merchandise at the front of the fall/ holiday catalog.

“We’re in a cycle where Halloween is trending up,” said Boston Warehouse’s Dwyer. As a result, she said, the company has expanded to four Halloween collections. And The Bone Collector assortment continues to grow, with customers seeking out the skull-themed products throughout the year, said Heckert.

Peking Handicraft’s Lo said Halloween is its second-best selling holiday line, moving ahead of Thanksgiving.

Because retailers want the holiday-themed merchandise to move and not have to be discounted in January, settling on viable merchandising ideas can go a long way toward achieving that goal.

Tag’s Sullivan said the company’s showroom is set up with different ideas that retailers can take back to their stores in total, or they can select to replicate just a portion of it. “We focus on independents with different philosophies,” said Sullivan.

“We’ll do anything we can to help with merchandising,” he said, even going so far as to photograph individual holiday merchandise fixtures and putting those photos on a CD for the manufacturers’ reps to share with clients.

“We want to make their (retailers) jobs as easy as possible,” said Sullivan. “Any tools we can give them, we will.” Tag also has a special website set up for retailers and sales reps.

Heckert from Boston Warehouse said its independent retailer clients also photograph their displays and the company provides posters with merchandising ideas.

“We try to help, big or small,” he said.

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{ p ro d u c t re v i e w s } Weston’s Roma Deluxe Electric Tomato Strainer Tomato sauce, strawberry sauce and fresh salsa were the results of this month’s product test of Weston’s Roma Deluxe Electric Tomato Strainer.

There was a lot of excitement in the office when the product arrived—first because the package weighed about 10 pounds, which meant an appliance, not a common subject for staff reviews; and second, because product reviews usually mean some kind of sampling for the staff.

At first, assembly seemed a little intimidating. As with any strainer/grinder of this type, there are quite a few parts: the motorized machine itself; the hopper (into which the fruits and vegetables are introduced), the head, which connects the machine and the drive-shaft assembly; the auger/strainer assembly; and the chute.

The instructions in the accompanying booklet are clear and assembly took less than three minutes.

My first effort was a strawberry sauce. I am one of those people for whom seeds are a dental annoyance, so I was very anxious to see how the Roma Tomato Strainer handled tiny strawberry seeds. I hulled the berries first, then processed 2 pounds using the fine (berry) screen. I was astounded by the result—a smooth, relatively thick, beautiful puree without any trace of seeds.

recipe included with the unit—a simple sauce of berry puree, sugar, lime juice and water, and served it over angel food cake. It was a hit with the staff, who loved the tartness of lime not usually used in strawberry sauces. I am looking forward to using the unit to make a seedless raspberry jam for my annual holiday Raspberry Chews.

Next, I tried Weston’s Fresh Salsa recipe.

I should note that the majority of the KNRH staffers are located in Tucson, Ariz., where fresh salsa is served with almost every meal. This was going to be a tough crowd.

I used the course (salsa) screen on 4 pounds of quartered, medium-sized, vine-ripened tomatoes. The attachment did not screen out all of the seeds (not a problem with a Tucson crowd accustomed to diced tomatoes) but did filter out most of the skin. The result was a generous four cups of a relatively fine (by Tucson standards) salsa base, to which I added the (modified) Weston salsa recipe ingredients: chopped onion, cilantro, Anaheim peppers (instead of bell and jalapeno), red wine vinegar, garlic and olive oil. The result was an extremely fresh-tasting salsa of the consistency one usually finds in a bottled brand.

We served the salsa with corn tortilla chips and the staff essentially inhaled it. Some said they’d have liked more hotness (jalapeno peppers), others were grateful

Evriholder

I made the Homemade Strawberry Sauce

Dressing-2-Go

The most noticeable thing about Evriholder Products’ single-serve Dressing2-Go is that people can’t keep their hands off it. From the minute it arrived in KNHR’s office for review, it was squeezed and ooooh’ed about by everyone whose path it crossed. Frankly, it’s just adorable.

The small, bright green, “squishy” silicone bottle holds about 4 ounces of dressing— just the right size for an individual serving (or two, if you’re watching those calories).

The cap/lid assembly is completely removable, in two pieces, for easy filling and cleaning. In fact, one member of our staff, after remarking how cute the bottle is, wondered how easy it would be to clean.

When she realized that the plastic lid and separate, connecting ring can be disengaged from the silicone bottle for easy cleaning, she said, “That’s awesome.”

Dressing-2-Go is a great little innovation that is not only perfect for dressing, but www.kitchenwarenews.com

by Theresa Grant also for transporting condiments, gravy and sauces. It is refrigerator, freezer and microwave safe, and top-rack dishwasher safe. And kids, from elementary through grad school, will find it a “cool” addition to any lunchbox. My 16-year-old high school student, who regularly takes a salad to school for lunch, has already called dibs on this nifty new item. Dressing2-Go retails for $3.99. For more information, visit www.evriholder.com.

by Theresa Grant

for the mild offering. Almost everyone loved the unusual (for Tucson) note added by the red wine vinegar instead of the typical lime juice. I noticed some people adding the salsa to their lunchtime sandwiches, too. It was completely gone by the end of the day.

My last effort was a tomato sauce, using about 5 pounds of medium-sized, vineripened tomatoes cut into quarters.

Initially, I used the medium screen, but was not very happy with how many seeds were making their way into the resulting puree.

I switched to the fine screen, and was thrilled with the result—a beautiful, surprisingly thick puree with no seeds or skins. I did take advantage of the “reverse motor” button a couple of times to clear out the skin and seeds accumulating in the strainer. The 5 pounds of tomatoes yielded about 6 cups of sauce, which was enough to make marinara for a 9" by 13" lasagna and a pasta dinner for four.

pan to collect the seeds and skin. The unit has a fairly large footprint as it is, so perhaps adjustable, telescoping legs might be a way to accommodate a deeper bowl.

One of the (easily accommodated) challenges of the Roma unit is how low it sits to the counter—with a maximum 2" clearance for puree and skin/seed collection bowls. In my old kitchen with a 6’ work island, I simply would have placed the unit on a higher platform. In my new, downsized kitchen, my cupboards are too close to the counters for that to be an option. My workaround was to use a 9" by 13" casserole dish to collect the sauce, and an 8" by 8"

And, after having spent too much time struggling with my KitchenAid mixer’s meat grinding attachment after an extraordinary sale recently on round steak, I am wishing I had Weston’s Electric Meat Grinder to test, too.

CIRCULON® SYMMETRY™ COOKWARE

allowing steam to escape. For a sure and comfortable grip, the permanently riveted, stay-cool handles are crafted of hollow stainless steel and charcoal black silicone.

Circulon Symmetry is oven safe to 400°F. Available in both sets and open stock items, Circulon Symmetry comes in chocolate and charcoal.

Suggested Retail Price: $24.99-299.99

New Circulon Symmetry cookware is easy to use, a snap to clean and long lasting. Completely dishwasher safe, Circulon Symmetry is constructed of durable, even-heating, hardanodized aluminum and includes a magnetic stainless steel induction plate on the base of each item to ensure the cookware’s compatibility with all cooktops. Circulon Symmetry features Circulon’s signature Total ® Nonstick Food Release System.

This technology, coupled with an advanced nonstick surface—metal utensil safe Dupont™ Autograph®— offers extraordinary food release and lifelong durability.

The cookware’s exterior finish also features durable nonstick to help resist staining. Each item in the collection features a pro-style Windsor shape and convenient tempered glass lids to allow for easy monitoring of the cooking process without

Overall, it was wonderful to have the option to create salt- and additive-free sauces from organically grown tomatoes in my own kitchen. I am no stranger to a hand-cranked food mill, and found the Roma Deluxe Electric Tomato Strainer to be a terrific option for saucing large quantities of fruits and vegetables, an activity I am anxiously anticipating as we reach the height of “tomato season” here in the Southwest.

The Roma by Weston Deluxe Electric Tomato Strainer, Model 82-0202-W, retails for $149.99. For more information, visit westonproducts.com/KWN.

Meyer Corp./Circulon [tel] 800.326.3933 www.circulon.com

Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

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Retailer Profile

glass cake pan, or a paring knife with a glass cutting board.

by Joanne Friedrick

GlassMarket at the Corning Museum of Glass In existence for 60 years, the Corning Museum of Glass in Corning, N.Y., has chronicled the art, history and science of glassmaking. And its 18,000-square-foot shop, called GlassMarket, continues that education with its wide range of art and collectible glass as well as the more practical tabletop, housewares and gift items, nearly all made of glass.

Most of what GlassMarket carries, said Nemard, goes beyond what would be found in the box stores or other housewares retailers.

“We are a museum-driven glass store,” he said, noting they carry some “run-of-themill” products, but mostly strive to offer unique or higher-end products.

“Our vision is to tell the world about glass,” explained Victor Nemard, Glass Market’s Manager. Using a store-within-a-store concept, GlassMarket is divided into areas highlighting the different kinds of glass products available, including fine art glass and designer pieces to the housewares area, which encompasses about one-sixth of the store.

The store and the museum have evolved over the years, said Shelley Peterson, Retail Buying/Sales and Operations Supervisor. “It was originally called the Glass Center and focused more on Corelle (dinnerware),” she said. But when the shop merged with the museum about six year ago, the scope of the product mix broadened.

The exception would be Corelle, said Peterson, “which is our main staple in tabletop. It goes to the history of the area since it was made in Corning, N.Y.” The store offers several Corelle patterns and also mixes in tabletop offerings from Libbey and Cypress Home.

Some of the popular offerings, said Nemard, are the Fred & Friends drinkware and accessories, Reidel stemware and drinking glasses and Bodum storage containers. “We try to offer things not found in the box stores,” said Nemard of brands such as Bodum. Also doing well, added Peterson, are Pyrex, Corelle and Peggy Karr serving platters and trays that feature bold, colorful designs in florals, patterns, lifestyle and seasonal scenes.

During the high season, which stretches from Memorial Day through Labor Day, GlassMarket supplements its staff of 22 with additional contract employees. The shop is open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. as well to accommodate as many as 3,500 visitors a day, said Peterson.

The museum and store attract international travelers and vacationers alike.

Summer is also the time when the store features demonstrations, said Nemard. Neil O’Donnell, at one time a chef working for Corning Glass, now demonstrates different products and accessories beginning on the weekends, and then expands the frequency of his demos after July 4th.

Demonstrations and creative displays are all part of the store’s effort to engage its visitors and get them to purchase products there, rather than at a traditional outlet, said Nemard. “If you just present items in the normal way, people won’t make the purchase,” he said.

There are some non-glass items sold at GlassMarket, said Peterson, but even those are tied to the glass products, such as a silicone spreader that could be used with a

One of the unique events sponsored by the museum is the Glass Harvest on Columbus Day weekend. Artists create glass pumpkins ranging in all sizes and price points, said Nemard, from $25 to $1,000 or more. The 7,500 glass pumpkins are on display inside and outside, added Peterson.

For the Christmas holidays, the store displays an 8-foot glass Christmas tree, which complements the 14-foot version in the museum lobby. This year, snowmen are being added, said Peterson, that will be displayed and sold like the pumpkins.

To let customers know about GlassMarket’s events, Nemard said they send emails to their customers. “And we’re growing into social media with Twitter,” said Peterson.

GlassMarket also has a website, and sales there are growing, said Nemard, who notes that people also use the site as an informational tool.

Peterson said the buying practices for GlassMarket include traditional outlets such as trade shows like the International Home + Housewares Show and the New York International Gift Fair, but they also tap into local New York state artists for some items. Peterson is one of three buyers that Nemard supervisors.

“In the store, we have basic stock that we replenish throughout the season,” said Nemard, “but we also look for new ideas to merchandise.” Sometimes products sold in the store are tied to exhibits, he said, such as a Fenton glass item and related book.

But it all goes back to tying in with the museum’s vision, said Nemard. “We really are related to the museum,” he said, “and our different boutiques represent that.”

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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

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&

K ITCHENWARE NEWS H o u s e w,a r e s R e v i e w S E RV I N G K I T C H E N WA R E

H O U S E WA R E S A N D TA B L E T O P M A R K E T S

VOLUME 17, NUMBER 8

AUGUST 2011

knhr at

nyigf

knhr at nyigf NYIGF (Cont. from p.1) is also positioned by Accent on Design, which has more high design items.

Q: How do you see the addition of Gourmet Housewares as enhancing the experience for buyers?

A: This enhances the depth of the Gourmet Housewares category that was already there. We do draw buyers from the independent gourmet housewares category, but this also gives home and lifestyle buyers some additional options.

Q: How will you evaluate the addition of Gourmet Housewares and its role as part of NYIGF going forward?

A: Our essential evaluation will be through feedback from existing exhibitors. We gauge if this has extended their distribution and how it works to see their existing customer base in a different setting. We will also look at attendance at the fair.

Sometimes we do surveys, but given the way we usually interact, most of the feedback comes through one-on-one conversations. We primarily come at it from a personal approach.

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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

Q: As the show director, what goals do you set for the show, and for yourself?

A: One of the goals for the show is that it is always a positive experience for the exhibitors and for the attendees. We look to have strong attendance, and it’s important to know that everyone is having a productive experience. For myself, I walk the show and also identify a targeted list of exhibitors to speak with on a personal level. My goal is also to have fun—I enjoy seeing new products and talking with retailers. Primarily I try to be on the floor, although I do set aside time to talk with the press.

Q: What are we likely to find you doing after the show, and how do you decompress from this experience?

A: We start very quickly to work on the next one, especially after the summer show. We jump in immediately to identify exhibitors who may want to move their location or expand their space. We also plan for the next phase of construction at the Javits center.

So we review with exhibitors how the construction will impact them. We’ll look at past show reports and talk about our successes

with the media. But I also find time to get a pedicure after the show and to spend some time with my kids.

Q: With the Javits still a work in progress, what changes can we expect to see for the next edition of NYIGF? A: We have had a pleasant surprise with this construction process. We have had the ability to move seamlessly through the process. In fact, most attendees don’t even see the disruption. We are using this opportunity to present and reposition our sectors better. It’s a strategic process, not just a tactical one. We have the same amount of space, but it’s just a matter of making the moves that are necessary to accommodate the construction.

Q: Finally, what do you hope attendees will take away from their experience at this year’s NYIGF and Gourmet Housewares Show?

A: What is important about Gourmet Housewares is the focus on the high-end of the range in terms of design, product quality and the ability to position the products in a different channel, such as a gift or home store.

www.kitchenwarenews.com

knhr at nyigf TALISMAN DESIGNS' PARTY PICKS

FULL CIRCLE GRUNGE BUSTER Introducing a new favorite cleaning tool, the Grunge Buster grout and tile brush by Full Circle. This super tough bathroom brush is the perfect 2-in-1 solution for making one of the most unpleasant household chores a whole lot easier.Why keep two tools in the bathroom when this brush does it all? The wide bristles on the bottom scrub the tiles, while the tough, narrow bristles on top get right into the grout. The ergonomic handle is perfect for applying pressure and the product stands up to air dry. Made from renewable bamboo and recycled plastic, both products are stylish and environmentally friendly.

Suggested Retail Price: $5.99 Full Circle [tel] 718.305.1754 www.fullcirclehome.com

www.kitchenwarenews.com

Make serving appetizers easy and stylish with Disposable Party Picks from Talisman Designs. These Party Picks are as beautiful as they are useful. Includes 30 party picks available in both a ready-to-use serving tray and a ready-to-use holder. Great for summer entertaining, weddings, graduations and other gift-giving events. Perfect for olives, cheese, fruit, drink garnish, wraps and other hors d’oeuvres. Available

TOPCHIPS CHIPMAKER You have to try it to believe it: tasty and fat-free chips in only a few minutes.

Now, thanks to TOPCHIPS, the unique chips maker, users can make light, crispy, and delicious chips right at home.

Simply peel potatoes with the handy and easy-to-use mini-mandoline, which makes ideally thick and even slices every time, and place them on the non-stick, 100 percent silicone surface.

Pop the tray in the microwave and heat for 3-5 minutes. The result is a greattasting, healthy alternative to traditional fried or baked snacks, with 40 percent fewer calories than regular bagged chips. You can season these crunchy

in seven styles complete with convenient and giftable packaging.

See Talisman’s website for other matching entertainment items. Hand washing recommended.

Suggested Retail Price: Party Picks with ready-to-use serving tray, $11.99; Pick & Dip™ with ready-to-use serving tray and a ceramic bowl, $23.99; Party Picks in a ready-to-use holder, $9.99 Talisman Designs [tel] 877.546.7995 www.talismandesigns.com

treats with favorite spices and flavors, including salt and pepper, sour cream and much more—the choices are endless. Not only great for potatoes, the chips maker also works wonderfully with other root vegetables such as carrots, beets and parsnips, and even fruits like apples, pears and mangoes.

The two-tray set can be stacked and simultaneously microwaved.

Suggested Retail Price: Single tray and mini-mandoline, $20; stackable two-tray set, $25 Mastrad Inc. [tel] 800.358.0608 www.mastrad.us

Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

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knhr at nyigf Gourmet Housewares Exhibitors Launch New Products at NYIGF

by Theresa Grant As retailers gear up for the New York International Gift Fair, Aug. 13 to 18, there’s a lot of excitement being generated by the addition of the Gourmet Housewares division and the new products slated for introduction.

Zoku, which has had great success with its Quick Pop Maker, will be launching a new line of holiday accessories and fun tools for the fast-freeze phenom, according to CEO Chris Green. “Retailers have had as much success with the Quick Pop Maker as a holiday gift item as they do during the

summer,” explained Green, noting that retailers and consumers see it as a unique item that makes a great gift. “The new motifs we will be introducing at NYIGF will make the product even more appealing,” he said. The Quick Pop Maker can turn out three pops at a time right on the kitchen countertop in less than seven minutes, and nine pops before the unit must be refrozen. (The Quick Pop Maker is frozen for about 24 hours between each use.)

Zoku’s latest pop innovations will be presented in holiday and character tool kits. “The holiday kit will support candy cane, Christmas tree and Santa designs, while the character kit will provide stencils and tools to create faces and characters,” said Green.

Joseph Joseph jumps into the latest color trend as it debuts some of its best sellers in a new Aubergine Collection.

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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

Included in the Collection are: the PIE™ Kitchen Timer; a SQUARE Colander in three sizes; a strengthened nylon SCOOP Colander; the Chop2Pot chopping board with polypropylene hinges; and Cut&Carve™ Plus double-sided, multi-functional chopping board.

Also this year at NYIGF, Joseph-Joseph will launch several new kitchenware products that are highly functional, but also look great and will be perfect for kitchen décor, including ARENA™, a self-draining dish rack with space for up to five place settings. The unique, flexible ribs hold crockery securely in place and help protect it from chips and scratches.

“The team at Joseph Joseph is looking forward to the combined gourmet and gift show in New York because it will introduce many of the gourmet buyers to some fantastic, design-led gift ideas that are very relevant for their stores,” said Richard Joseph, Co-Founder and Managing Director for Joseph Joseph.

“The New York Gift show has always been a very strong show for Joseph Joseph and now combining it with Gourmet Housewares will turn it into the leading show for household items in America.”

Wilshire Industries LLC will focus on its new Rainbow Wood Collection by Island Bamboo™, a unique collection of 18 kitchenware products set to debut at The Gourmet Housewares Show. Already known for having a large selection of ecofriendly bamboo kitchenware for everyday living, gift giving and entertaining, the Island Bamboo line has grown to include non-toxic silicone, food-safe lacquer and now lightweight and durable rainbow wood, materials that each add a splash of color and bring effortless elegance to today’s kitchen.

Continued on Page 27

www.kitchenwarenews.com

knhr at nyigf PRODYNE ICED DIP

BOTTLE TOPPERS AND EGG COZIES Cheppu Himal is a member of the Fair Trade Federation and supports education and traditional cultures in Nepal. Its line of felted wool bottle toppers and egg cozies are handcrafted from recycled wool carpets in

Nepal. There are 15 animal and character shapes available.

Suggested Retail Price: $6 each Cheppu Himal [tel] 831.659.0390 www.cheppu.com

Keep dips, sauces, condiments, snacks and more chilled and fresh over ice with Prodyne’s ICED Dip. The two-piece set features a 22-ounce, high-quality, 18/8 brushed stainless steel upper dip bowl and an attractive,rounded,crystal clear acrylic ice bowl. Simply place ice and cold water into the lower bowl and position the upper dip bowl into the lower bowl so it nests down into the ice water to where the stainless steel bowl will stay nice and cold. Both bowls can be used alone as individual servers.A lid is included to conveniently store dips made ahead of time or leftovers. It is packaged in an attractive,full-color box.

Suggested Retail Price: $19.99

and the Granton edge prevents food from sticking to the blade. The sanitary Swiss Classic Fibrox handle is textured to provide maximum grip and comfort and is NSF certified. Hand washing is recommended. The knife is available at Sur la Table.

Suggested Retail Price: $48.50

Join the slow juice revolution and change the way you get your vitamins with the Hurom Slow Juicer, a versatile machine that can be used for everyday juicing or unique recipes, glazes, and marinades -even home-made soy milk, wheatgrass juice, almond milk or tofu.

Hurom provides more antioxidants, better flavor, and freshness without the common problems of heating, foaming or separation. Hurom’s selfcleaning feature allows for continuous juicing and hassle-free care and comes with a 10-year motor warranty.

Suggested Retail Price: $359

Victorinox Swiss Army [tel] 800.243.0852 www.surlatable.com

Roland Products Inc. [tel] 800.321.2226. www.slowjuicer.com

Prodyne Enterprises [tel] 800.822.4776 www.prodyne.com

VICTORINOX SWISS ARMY GRANTON EDGE SANTOKU KNIFE The Granton Edge Santoku Knife with slip-resistant Fibrox handle is an extremely versatile, every day-use knife. This all-purpose 7" kitchen tool carries a lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship and retains maximum sharpness even through prolonged use. The high carbon stainless steel blade is ice tempered to sustain sharpness longer

HUROM SLOW JUICER

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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

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kitchen accessories PRODYNE ICED FRUIT INFUSION

WÜSTHOF CLASSIC STUDIO BLOCK SET Identifying a need in the marketplace for more compact and space-saving premium knife block sets, Wüsthof introduces the Classic Five-Piece Studio Block Set (model 9395). Available since June, the Classic Five-Piece Studio Block Set features a narrow, customized four-slot light wood storage block that holds four essential premium-quality cutlery tools: 3.5" Paring Knife, 4.5" Utility Knife, 6" Cook’s Knife and Come Apart Kitchen Shears. Perfect for any kitchen or dorm setting where every inch of countertop space is precious–and the ideal gift or self-purchase for anyone who adheres to a “less is more” ethos– the new Classic Five-Piece Studio Block Set conveniently bundles together the essential cutlery and kitchen tool no cook should be without.

Suggested Retail Price: $149.95

Prodyne introduces the Iced Fruit Infusion Natural Fruit Flavor Pitcher with Freezer Ice Tube. Enjoy refreshing lemon water, raspberry iced tea and more and keep it chilled with this attractive new combo pitcher.There are four ways to use the crystal clear acrylic pitchee— Fruit Infusion and Iced together, Fruit Infusion alone, Iced alone or Pitcher alone. Just place cut lemons, limes, berries, mint, etc., into the removable fruit infusion rod and slide it down into pitcher. Open slots in the rod allow liquids and fruit to mix naturally to give beverages a wonderful, fruit-infused flavor. The pitcher can be continually refilled without replacing the fruit for several days. For meal and party use, attach the removable freezer ice tube (screws into lid) to keep pre-chilled beverages chilled for hours without ice cube dilution. Just fill the ice tube with water one time and keep in freezer. It may be re-frozen repeatedly without re-filling with water.The pitcher measures 3 quarts (96 ounces), it is BPA-free and packed in a full color retail box.

Suggested Retail Price: $29.99

SEDONA FOOD DEHYDRATOR

BY TRIBEST Designed for making dehydration simple, the nine-tray Sedona® Food Dehydrator by Tribest® is stylish yet easy to use. Sedona offers a digital control panel used to accurately set and monitor a single temperature between 86°F and 155°F and a drying time up to 150 hours, worry-free. Because not all recipes require nine trays, use less energy and eliminate excess waste by programming Sedona to use only one drying compartment. The ability to divide Sedona into two drying compartments, an upper and a lower, allows for drying up to four, five, or nine trays of food at a time. Built with a glass, see-through door topped with a piano

black finish, Sedona also comes with nine BPA-free plastic open trays, nine BPA-free plastic mesh screens and one BPA-free plastic closed tray.Additionally, Sedona utilizes dual-fan technology which allows each fan to operate independently, distributing heated air evenly to dry foods more efficiently.The Sedona motor inverts AC power to DC power offering quiet motor operation.

Furthermore, Sedona can also be set from day mode to night mode for whisper quiet operation during the evening hours.

Suggested Retail Price: $399 Tribest Corp. [tel] 714.879.7150 www.tribest.com

Prodyne Enterprises [tel] 800.822.4776 www.prodyne.com

Wüsthof-Trident of America Inc. [tel] 800.289.9878 www.wusthof.com

TALISMAN POT PIE SHIELDS

SORRENTO TIERED THREE-TRAY SERVER Sorrento's tiered, three tray server is available with one each ivory, gold and sage trays or all ruby (as pictured). The rustic glaze, raised dot-and-olive-leaf motif, and rich, earthy color palette compliment a wide variety of decor styles. Three removable trays are presented in a hand-crafted, wroughtiron tiered caddy, perfect for serving appetizers and side dishes. Trays are microwave and dishwasher safe, leadfree stoneware, and in stock now.

Suggested Retail Price: $69.99

Protection for your pie crust. This unique pie shield size fits all pot pies and small pies between 4" and 6". The user simply puts the shield on top of the pot pie before baking. Now the crusts will not burn. The Pot Pie Shields are 100 percent FDA silicone, heat resistant to 500°F, dishwasher safe, reusable and much easier to use than aluminum foil.

The shields can be used with both fresh and frozen pies. Comes in a set of four.

Suggested Retail Price: $14.99 Talisman Designs [tel] 877.546.7995 www.talismandesigns.com

Signature Housewares [tel] 805.484.6666 www.sighouse.com www.kitchenwarenews.com

Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

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kitchen accessories Summer Kitchen Gadgets Meld Practical with Fun Summer gadgets are following ongoing design and color trends, but many are incorporating an extra element of fun. And what’s exciting about these summer-oriented products is that they have a lifespan that goes well into the other three seasons, depending on where buyers live.

Susie Cover, Vice President of RSVP International, said, “Basic gadgets that provide a needed function continue to perform strongly.” But being “functional” doesn’t mean gadgets can’t simultaneously make a fashion statement.

RSVP’s Onion Goggles, featured in a May episode of the TV show, “Modern Family,” are available for about $19.95 in white, black, red, pink and, for the hipster on the list, tortoise shell. The goggles are lined with foam to create a barrier between onion fumes and sensitive eyes, and are made of polycarbonate, foam and plastic.

While not technically a kitchen gadget, the Bodum Fyrkat Charcoal Grill is a pretty nifty item—and its battery-powered rotisserie option does, actually, lend itself to the gadget category. The striking, coneshaped device offers two grilling levels;

the upper level for veggies and fish can be used simultaneously with a lower grill for meats that do well closer to the heat. The grill easily converts to a third, batterypowered rotisserie option and can accommodate up to a 6-pound chicken.

The grill comes in a choice of black, green, orange and red, and retails for about $180.

“When it comes to grilling and food preparation items, each customer looks for different features and qualities,” said Thomas Perez, President of Bodum USA Inc. “However, the feedback that we have received on our Frykat Cone Grill is that our attractive bright colors and the particular cone shape has added fashion and fun to the category. This has put new attention on the BBQ category and has inspired new and upcoming grillers as well as prompted experienced grillers to venture back into charcoal grilling.”

function both as a scoop and a push-up pop, and each one holds about 3 ounces. Scoop up the ice cream and cap and freeze individual servings for later, or scoop and eat right away. A set of two retails for about $4.

For the growing category of home bakers, there are myriad products designed to make the process easier and more entertaining as well.

Lékué Decomax is a pliable silicone pastry bowl—in the tradition of a pastry cone— featuring an easy-access lid and built-in nozzle with six different tips for decorating or filling. It measures 2.8" deep, 5.5" wide and 6.3" long to the end of the nozzle, retailing for about $26 and available in pink, green and brown. It is a mess-free option for kids and adults alike, eliminating the need for an iron grip to prevent back-seepage.

And while out on the patio after dinner, outdoor diners can serve everyone’s favorite ice cream using Jokari Cool Cones— reusable, freezable, “push-up” ice cream cones with lids. The cones are designed to

Did you know that pie is the new cupcake? Pillsbury declared it officially so in June and, based on the resurgence of pie chatter in the culinary media, it seems they got it right. Until personal

WINE-A-RITA DRINK MIXES

favorite red wine or serve the mixes alcohol free.The mixes are kosher and available for foodservice.

Wine-A-Rita offers five powdered drink mixes: Wine Glacé, Peach Bellini, CosmoRita, Senorita and Berry Pom-a-Rita.The newest flavor, All Natural Berry Pom-a-Rita, has no additives, preservatives, artificial flavors or colors.Blueberry and pomegranate are rich sources of antioxidants and offer great health benefits. Blend with a

BELLA TOVALA BT-2070KF DELUXE CREME BRULEE KIT The easy-to-use, butane-powered, Crème Brulee Torch is perfect for

OVEN-TAMER BAKING BASKET The Oven-Tamer™ Baking Basket is the perfect kitchen helper for oven baking frozen appetizers, hors d'oeuvres and finger foods in one quick step.The openweave design allows food to be cooked evenly on all sides at one time.

Just place a favorite frozen food directly into the lower half of the Oven-Tamer™ basket, then close the top basket over to create a unique baking environment in which to cook prepared, frozen food more quickly and evenly. “Made from sturdy stainless steel with specially designed floating hinges to adjust for food thickness, this baking basket 18

by Theresa Grant

Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

pie shops begin to take up residence on every neighborhood corner— or move into abandoned cupcake shops—your customers can assuage their pie cravings four small pies at a time with Breville’s Personal Pie Maker.

Using homemade pastry or one of the many readyto-go versions now available in the grocer’s refrigerator case, users can whip up a variety of pies, even a mix of sweet and savory, in about 10 minutes.

The Breville Personal Pie Maker is an exclusive at Williams-Sonoma, and retails for about $100.

Wine-A-Rita LLC [tel] 903.832.7309 www.wineglace.com

professional chefs or just entertaining at home. The small, lightweight torch delivers a 2400°F high output blue flame. It is ideal for crème brulee, roasting peppers, melting cheese, browning meringues and caramelizing sugars. Features include automatic ignition, child-resistant safety lever, continuous use locking mechanism, adjustable flame control lever, ergonomic grip, non-tip wide base and a refillable reservoir. The Crème Brulee Torch is part of the Bella Tavola line, a butane-Ppowered culinary tool line by Wall Lenk Corp. The Bella Tavola creates a unique grid around frozen food, cutting down on baking time and eliminating those annoying, uneven brown spots and bottom-burning caused by conventional cookie-sheet heating,” explained Susan Fluellon, New Product Specialist for Life-Tamers Inc. Life-Tamers Inc. is a division of the Prime Way Group of Companies, an awardwinning product developer and marketer that distributes its innovative products internationally through specialty and larger retails such as WalMart, Bed Bath and Beyond, Home Hardware and Canadian Tire, and through infomercials and mail order.

line is the only complete program that includes butane. Contents of the kit include a crème brulee torch, four fullsized 3.5" by 1.65" fluted ramekins, a 1.5-ounce can of butane, one recipe and user instructions.

Suggested Retail Price: Creme Brulee Torch, $29.99; Torch Fuel & Combo Pack, $33.99; Torch & Ramekins Combo Pack, $37.99; Torch, Ramekins & Fuel Pack $39.99 Wall Lenk Corp. [tel] 252.527.4186 www.bellatovatools.com

Suggested Retail Price: $19.95 Life-Tamers [tel] 905.732.5445 ext. 246 www.life-tamers.com www.kitchenwarenews.com

kitchen accessories

FUSIONBRANDS TASTING CRADLES Impress guests like never before with the tastingcradle™ from Fusionbrands®. Party snacks, aperitivi, hors d'oeuvres, appetizers, amusebouche, finger-foods—call them whatever you like and serve them in style. With these pint-sized serving spoons, the tastingcradle is not only alluring but functional, keeping guests' hands clean, and keeping the event a mess-free environment.

Designed with a built-in toothpick holder, the tastingcradle provides an easy way for guests to pick up and

enjoy any small bites served. Even though these little gems are perfect for the ever-so-popular deviled egg, they have much more potential. From mini meatballs, shrimp, and stuffedmushrooms to sushi, caviar, and dumplings—the options are limitless, so get creative. 'Tis the season for holiday parties, and what better way to serve up holiday treats than with some festively colored tastingcradles?

Arrange tastingcradles any way, on any serving dish to create a sleek presentation for holiday entertaining.

Add to the wintery wonderland with a white tastingcradle™ set of six or match a holiday color scheme with a tastingcradle™ set of six in red and gold shades.

Suggested Retail Price: $6 Wintery White, $7 Red & Gold fusionbrands [tel] 877.279.2002 www.fusionbrands.com

FOX RUN CHICKEN AND PIG POT CLIPS New silicone pot clips are now available from Fox Run®—a must have for all cooks. These easy-to-use clips attach to pots or pans and securely hold spoon in place while cooking, eliminating a messy stovetop. Available in two whimsical characters, chicken and pig, and conveniently merchandised in a compact, counter-top display unit that holds 12 chicken or pig pot clips.

Suggested Retail Price: $2.99 each

SCI PRE-SEASONED CAST IRON PANS

Fox Run Brands [tel] 800.372.0700 www.foxrunbrands.com

SCI introduces its reinvented line of cast iron pans that are pre-seasoned to save steps. With even heating and long-lasting heat retention, these pans easily provide consistent results.

Not only are these pans easy to use, but cleaning them is even easier.

These new styles and shapes are available now.

SCI Cuisine Internationale [tel] 800.966.5489 www.scandicrafts.com

WESTON'S SLAW BOARD & CABBAGE SHREDDER Weston Products’ Cabbage Shredder is the fast and easy way to make homemade coleslaw and sauerkraut.

The Slaw Board is ideal for shredding cabbage and vegetables to the www.kitchenwarenews.com

perfect consistency. Its sturdy, beech wood design makes it easy to clean and will last a lifetime.This unit has been redesigned with a comfortable handle on the back of the board for added stability and safe shredding. The board has three super-sharp stainless steel blades that will easily shred cabbage or leafy vegetables into 1mm strips. It couldn’t be easier to use—simply cut the heads of cabbage in quarters, place in the wooden frame and slide the frame back and forth for easy shredding. Clean up is just as easy. Simply slide the wood frame off of the cutting frame, brush off any cabbage remnants and wipe the blades clean.

Suggested Retail Price: $54.99 Weston Products [tel] 800.814.4895 www.westonproducts.com/KWN Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

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kitchen accessories

LINDEN SWEDEN TULIP SPICE GRINDER Linden Sweden’s popular Tulip Spice Grinder features CrushGrind®, a unique ceramic grinding mechanism designed to grind dried spices and herbs, rock salt, peppercorn and many seeds, including flax and sesame seeds. The spice wheel adjusts easily to grind from coarse to fine and offers an even grind that makes seasoning a snap. The Tulip

Spice Grinder, an ideal size for spices and herbs, stands 5" tall and holds about 2 ounces. It will perk up dried spices and herbs, enhancing their flavor.

The Tulip Spice Grinder grinds upside down, leaving no mess on the table or counter. It fits comfortably in the hand and is easy to use, easy to clean and fills with little effort. Just twist off the grinder cap to expose the large mouth spice jar for easy fills and refills. The grinder’s whimsical design allows it to be part of festive occasions as well as every day dining. Gift boxed and available in four trendy colors: sage green, cranberry red, black and white.

The CrushGrind® grinding mechanism offers a 25-year warranty.

Suggested Retail Price: $15.95 Linden Sweden Inc [tel] 952.465.0052 www.lindensweden.com

SCARLET POSY FROM KATIE ALICE Scarlet Posy is a gorgeous new vintage-inspired tabletop collection designed by English lifestyle designer, Katie Alice. Katie lives and works from her beautiful cottage in rural Northamptonshire. Together with her husband, Justin, she runs the local village pub, which is a very important part of village life. Life revolves around the pub and her home as well as her beautiful cottage garden. With an eye for detail, her home reflects how

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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

JEWELSTIK 1-2-3 KNIFE SHARPENERS Whether it's chopping vegetables, slicing bread or peeling a fresh pineapple, a sharp knife is a necessary tool in living a healthy lifestyle. No more frustration of working with an old blade that was left from grandma. Problems are solved with the new JewelStik 1-2-3 Diamond Sharpeners. Three grits provide the versatility everyone needs and yet it's all on one handle: No kits, no set up or extra parts to lose. Just pull out grandma's blade and swipe it a Katie and Justin live their lives, surrounding themselves with color and inspiration taken from the natural world around them. Inspiration for this pretty retro collection came from an old piece of 1950s printed textile, painted in watercolor and paint. Katie says,“I was really drawn to this design because of the rich heritage colors and the way that the floral sprays stood out against the pale shadowy silver ferns. It reminded me of an old tea set that my grandmother had in her living room but I

few times on the No. 1 (coarse grit), then use the No. 2 (medium grit) to work in a sharp edge or use it to maintain everyday cutlery. Then No. 3 is used for honing to a razor's sharp edge or sharpen a new ceramic knife blade when it has dulled. JewelStik 1-2-3 works for many uses and is priced to be in every household. JewelStik 1-2-3 is available in a variety of lengths: 5", 10" or 12". The packaging is eye catching and colorful and moves the product off your shelves. The JewelStik 1-2-3 is fully made in the United States and comes with a manufacturer's lifetime guarantee: More perks to sell your customers.

Suggested Retail Price: $24.95 for 5"; $49.95 for 10"; $59.95 for 12" Hewlett Manufacturing [tel] 814.683.4762 www.jewelstik.com wanted a slightly modern look, so included some spots for that all important mix and match appeal.”

The range includes bullet-shaped, over-sized mugs in various designs on super-white porcelain, as well as bowls, dinner plates, side plates, melamine trays and cork-backed mats and coasters, and there are more products on the way.

Creative Tops Ltd. [tel] 908.375.8173 www.creative-tops.com

www.kitchenwarenews.com

kitchen accessories EVRIHOLDER PRODUCTS' NANA SLICER™

WAHAUS COLLECTION

BY VITA CRAFT The Wahaus Collection by Vita Craft is a true gem. This six-piece set of cookware is not only beautiful and classic, but also versatile. This stainless steel Deep Chef Set can go from range top to tabletop in minutes.The Wahaus Collection is made up of a set of three Deep Chef pans: an 8" Deep Chef, a 10" Deep Chef and a 13" Deep Chef. The series comes with stainless steel covers

with optional stainless steel knobs and flame guards. Glass covers are also available. The Wahaus Collection features waterless, greaseless cooking and carries a true Vita Craft lifetime warranty. This fine cookware is made in the United States.

Suggested Retail Price: $450 Vita Craft [tel] 913.631.6265 www.vitacraft.com

FABRIKATORS SCRUB'A WATERPROOF FISH GLOVES

MASTRAD HERB INFUSER The perfect way to add flavor to any meal, the Herb Infuser allows users to season ingredients the easy way.

Simply toss in the colorful, heat-safe tube while cooking and the work is done for you. Insert favorite herbs, spices and seasonings into the small tube, and place it in the cooking pan or pot. The secure lid keeps contents in place while the unique ventilated design allows for generous distribution of flavorings. Ingredients get the benefit of flavor without the added residue from seasonings, making for a lighter, but still delicious, meal. Now there’s no need to drain leftover salts and spices or remove a bulky stalk before eating. Just remove the Herb Infuser, stir, and enjoy vegetables, meats, soups, stews and much more that taste as if they've been simmered for hours. For added convenience, the Herb Infuser lid is also designed with a small, easy-to-grip handle, which allows for easy and safe removal when cooking. Using cooking utensils, cooks can remove it without reaching into food and boiling hot temperatures.

Heat resistant up to 480°F. Suggested Retail Price: $6

Though they may look like bath-time exfoliating gloves, these two new additions to the Skrub’a® line of scrubbing gloves from the Fabrikators are designed for cleaning and descaling fish and cleaning vegetables while keeping your hands clean and dry. The new Skrub’a Waterproof Fish gloves feature descaling patches on both hands for quick and effective removal of fish scales, as well as unique non-slip treads on the fingers to keep a secure grip.The new Skrub’a Waterproof Multi glove can be used to clean a variety of vegetables without removing all the nutrients concentrated in the peel. As with all Skrub’a gloves, the exteriors of these two new items are made from FDA-approved nylon for effective and easy scrubbing. The interior of each features a soft fabric lining, and is completely waterproof— no more fishy or wet hands. When finished using the gloves, they can be rinsed and hung to dry, or thrown in the washing machine or dishwasher for easy care.

Suggested Retail Price: $22.99-24.99

Evriholder Products’ latest innovation in its Kitchen Tools and Gadgets category is the ‘Nana Slicer™—a unique device designed to make healthy breakfast quick, easy and convenient. The patented slicer consists of two parts: a base that the banana sits on and a bladed lever that lowers onto the banana, slicing it. Designed to cut half a banana at a time, the ‘Nana Slicer creates the perfect topping for cereal or yogurt. The product is made from BPA-free, food-safe plastics. And there are no sharp blades, so it’s kid-friendly too. The ‘Nana Slicer is available in two fresh colors: green and pink assorted.

And what’s even better is the ‘Nana Slicer is top-rack dishwasher safe so clean up is simple. Perfect for cross promotions in high-traffic adjacencies like the cereal aisle, the ‘Nana Slicer™ has huge potential not only as an everyday item, but also for seasonal promotion during summer and for January New Year’s resolutions.

Suggested Retail Price: $3.99 Evriholder Products [tel] 800.975.0335 www.evriholder.com

FRANMARA STEEL-ICE™ CUBES DELUXE SET At last, dilution-free, on-the-rock drinks.

These food-safe, stainless steel blocks contain a non-toxic gel safely sealed inside each 1" cube made with solid construction that is guaranteed to last for years. Keep them in the freezer to drop into drinks for instant cooling— great for cooling a glass of white wine or glass of Scotch without melting ice cubes. Steel-Ice™ is much more efficient in cooling than whiskey stones, and will last a lot longer. Deluxe Set includes four Steel-Ice™ Cubes and a handy two-piece freezer tray designed to allow easy removal of the cubes from the freezer to glass without touching them. We can also customize the cubes with your logo for an additional cost.

Suggested Retail Price: $24.99 per set Franmara [tel] 800.423.5855 www.franmara.com

Roland Products USA [tel] 800.321.2226 www.fabrikatorsusa.com

Mastrad Inc. [tel] 800.358.0608 www.mastrad.us www.kitchenwarenews.com

Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

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BUYERS GUIDE

thermometers & scales RÖSLE DIGITAL ROASTING THERMOMETER The new Rösle Digital Roasting Thermometer measures the internal temperature of meat and the temperature of an oven. The digital display is easy to read even when peering into the oven. The temperature can be set manually or a cook can use the pre-set temperature values for beef, pork, veal, poultry and lamb based on USDA recommendations. The temperature range for the thermometer is -4°F to 482°F. This thermometer features a magnetic back plate for easy placement on metal

CHEF PALS™ MEAT THERMOMETER stoves and a pull-out stand with silicone feet to make reading it easy on counter.

It comes with a lifetime warranty.

Suggested Retail Price: $40 Rösle [tel] 302.326.4801 www.rosleusa.com

FINAL TOUCH ELECTRONIC WINE THERMOMETER

SAFE-SERVE™ INSTANT READ THERMOMETER WITH TORCH LIGHT Featuring Speed-Read™ technology, the Safe-Serve™ Thermometer from Polder offers accurate readings in eight seconds or less. Users can cook to taste for meat type and “doneness” using preprogrammed U.S. Department of Agriculture temperatures. The torch light and backlit display illuminate with the press of a button for easy viewing when cooking in low light. The 10" probe keeps hands at a safe distance from heat, while the probe’s thin tip makes a smaller sampling hole so less juice escapes from the meat. Two AAA batteries are included.

Suggested Retail Price: $24.99

Final Touch WineWatch The Thermometer allows users to chill wine to the proper temperature. The WineWatch simply slips onto the bottle, which is then placed in the refrigerator or on ice until the ideal temperature is registered on the unit.

The WineWatch features a simulated stainless steel face plate with suggested wine temperatures on the back. The unit fits onto any bottle and has a large, bright, easy-to-read display in either Centigrade or Fahrenheit. It is packaged to stand alone or hang.

Suggested Retail Price: $29.99 Product Specialties Inc. [tel] 877.668.0818 www.productspec.com

Parasia International [tel] 763.267.7900 www.parasia-international.com.

BONJOUR ANALOG MEAT THERMOMETER The BonJour Analog Meat Thermometer features a modern geometric shape and stainless steel shaft with a protective sheath. Simply insert the tip of the shaft into the food and the inner temperature will appear on the 2" dial face. Helpful cooking temperature recommendations are located on the easy-to-read dial. The thermometer is made of stainless steel.

Suggested Retail Price: $14.99 BonJour [tel] 800.857.3794 www.bonjourproducts.com

SPRINGFIELD INSTANT READ THERMOMETER Designed by Taylor exclusively for HIC, the Springfield line includes this easyto-read Instant Read Thermometer.

With a 1" dial convex magnifying lens, temperatures can be read easily. It's accurate to 220°F and has a shatterproof plastic lens, durable stainless steel stem and storage sleeve. Plus it's NSF approved.

Suggested Retail Price: $7.99 HIC—Harold Import Co. Inc. [tel] 732.364.3253 or 800.526.2163 www.haroldimport.com

Polder Housewares Inc. [tel] 800.431.2133 www.polder.com

FLIP TIP™ DIGITAL THERMOMETER

The KitchenAid Gourmet Digital Probe Thermometer features a programmable temperature level with automatic alert and a timer up to 99 hours. It comes complete with an easy-to-read, standup digital display, extra-long cord and stainless steel probe and includes 2 AAA batteries. Hand wash.

Suggested Retail Price: $29.99

The Flip Tip™ Digital Thermometer features an adjustable silicone depth gauge, allowing consistent placement of the thermometer probe for more accurate readings throughout the cooking process. The folding probe locks into multiple angles for easier monitoring and closes flat for convenient storage. It easily switches between Celsius and Fahrenheit with a toggle button on back. It uses one AAA battery that is not included.

Suggested Retail Price: $17.99

Lifetime Brands Inc. [tel] 800.252.3390 www.lifetimebrands.com

The Companion Group [tel] 800.521.0505 www.companion-group.com

KITCHENAID GOURMET DIGITAL PROBE THERMOMETER

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Introducing Chef Pals™ meat thermometers/alarms, a new innovation from Admetior.This new series of meat thermometers combines functionality with novelty to create the next “must have,” fun-to-use kitchen tool. Not only is this new kitchen gadget cute as can be, it’s also really easy to use and accurate.

Simply place the steel probe into the center of the meat, extend the heat-resistant cable outside of the oven or pan, and place the alarm unit on the kitchen counter or to the front of the oven with its included magnetic feet.Then, leave

the rest of the cooking up to the Chef Pals™ thermometer. Once the meat has reached the proper internal temperature (as designated

by USDA) the alarm will sound and the red LED light will flash.The alarm is different for every meat type. The cow moos, the pig oinks, the turkey gobbles, etc. The Chef Pals™ series is a perfect fit for any home cooking situation. No matter what meat you are cooking, there’s a Chef Pals™ thermometer there to make sure the meal comes out just right.

Suggested Retail Price: $19.99

Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

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Dial ‘er up! The Guy Fieri oversized grill surface thermometer is easy to read at 3.5" in diameter and more accurate than grill lid thermometers (which only read the air inside the grill). This grill surface thermometer is a part of the rockin’ BAR * B * Krew Collection from chef and restaurateur, Guy Fieri. Read the true grill surface temperature with this thermometer to indicate when it’s time to throw down your bird, beef or fresh catch.

Suggested Retail Price: $13.99

GUY FIERI GRILL SURFACE THERMOMETER

Fox Run Brands [tel] 800.372.0700 www.foxrunbrands.com

SHELL™ COMPACT DIGITAL SCALE

CANDY THERMOMETER WITH SHEATH The Roscan Candy Thermometer is a large, easy-to-read, clip-on thermometer. The oversized clip fits large or small pots and has a stay-cool red wooden ball attached for easy handling. The tempered glass unit comes with a practical protective plastic storage case with a printed chart of suggested candy and deep frying temperatures. It reads temperatures up to 200°C or 400°F, and wipes clean with a damp cloth.

Suggested Retail Price: $2.99 Roscan Inc. [tel] 514.335.4348 www.roscan.net

EATSMART PRECISION PRO DIGITAL KITCHEN SCALE The EatSmart Precision Pro Digital Kitchen Scale is an economically priced, multifunction home scale, perfect for everyday tasks from weighing food or ingredients to calculating postage. It features an extra-large LCD screen for clear readings, accurately weighs up to 11 pounds in .05 ounce or 1 gram increments, and measures in ounces, pounds, grams and kilograms. Along with the Precision Pro, buyers will also receive a Calorie Factors book making it easy to achieve goals such as portion control and calorie counting.The scale runs on and includes 2 AAA batteries.

Suggested Retail Price: $25.95

This sleek digital scale is both practical and versatile. Lift off the integrated measuring bowl to reveal a large, easyto-read LCD display and simple controls.

Rest the upturned bowl on the unit and Shell is ready to weigh both liquids and dry foods in grams, pounds, ounces, fluid ounces and milliliters. A convenient “add and weigh” function allows multiple ingredients to be weighed in the same bowl during recipe preparation and an auto power-off feature maximizes battery life.

Suggested Retail Price: $65

IGRILL WIRELESS COOKING THERMOMETER iDevices’ iGrill is the world’s first wireless cooking thermometer for iPod touch, iPhone and iPad via a longrange Bluetooth® and App-enabled connection. iGrill consists of the iGrill Thermometer with projection display and probe, four AA batteries and the iGrill App. Features of the iGrill Thermometer include Bluetooth with 200’-plus range; touch interface and projection display; stand-alone thermometer; multi-probe capacity; integrated probe storage; alarm settings; multiple positions for extra flexibility and easy storage; and the ability to track temperatures up to 400°F. The App provides iGrill connectability; food temperature option; multipleprobe support; multiple view options; recipe browsing and sharing; and a kitchen timer.

Suggested Retail Price: $99.99 iDevices [tel] 888.934.4745 www.igrillinc.com

WIRELESS PROBE THERMOMETER AND TIMER This unit allows the user to roam while continually monitoring the time and temperature of the food being cooked up to 100 feet away. It comes in two parts—a lightweight remote to carry and a stationary base with a high-heat sensor cable with a 6" probe to measure the internal temperature of the meat. Progress to target range is continuously displayed on the remote, along with the chosen meat preference.

Distinctive audio or vibration as well as visual alerts indicate when the target temperature is reached.

Features include pre-programmed and programmable meat/taste and memory modes. The base is equipped with a belt clip/stand/loop and the remote with a pocket clip/magnet/stand/loop.

Suggested Retail Price: $39.99 Component Design Northwest [tel] 800.338.5594 www.cdn-timeandtemp.com

Joseph Joseph [tel] 516.248.1875 www.josephjoseph.com

SOEHNLE FOOD CONTROL EASY The Food Control Easy is a mighty little kitchen scale that couples precision with an integrated database containing the nutritional value of 950 common foods. The Food Control Easy automatically calculates all the most important energy and nutritional values—calories, carbohydrates, protein, fat, cholesterol, fiber, and calcium. It also features patented sensor touch technology, auto on/off function, tare function and total sum memory. Liquid foods are displayed in volume, with the conversion of pounds to kilograms and fluid ounces to milliliters at the flip of a switch. It has an 11-pound capacity, weighing in 0.05-ounce increments.

Suggested Retail Price: $50 Leifheit USA [tel] 866.695.3434 www.leifheitusa.com

EatSmart Products [tel] 201.465.4381 www.eatsmartproducts.com www.kitchenwarenews.com

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DELUXE DIET SCALE Roscan’s Deluxe Diet Scale comes with a removable tray that allows users to weigh precise amounts up to 1 pound or metrically to 450 grams. It features easy-to-read numbers and is made of durable ABS plastic. Simply wipe down with a damp cloth and dry for easy cleaning.

Suggested Retail Price: $6.99

DIGITAL POCKET SCALE This compact digital scale weighs in grams, ounces, troy ounces and pennyweight. With a 1.1-pound or 500gram capacity, the scale features a tare function that allows the user to add items onto the scale without having to remove previous items. The auto-off feature extends the life of the battery, which is included. The cover can be used to protect the scale when stored or as a tray for weighing. It measures 4.5" by 2.5" by 0.5" thick.

Suggested Retail Price: $19.99 Polder Housewares Inc. [tel] 800.431.2133 www.polder.com

Roscan Inc. [tel] 514.335.4348 www.roscan.net

FINAL TOUCH SLIM ELECTRONIC SCALE This scale from Final Touch is both slim and foldable, compact for storing and everyday use. The scale weighs up to 6.6 pounds in either grams or ounces.

There is a tare measurement feature, a countdown timer and a clock. It comes with a stainless steel stand that holds the scale neatly and securely in place. A display indicates if there is too much weight or if the battery power is low.

Suggested Retail Price: $59.99

PERFECT PORTIONS FOOD SCALE The Perfect Portions Scale is a scale and nutritional calculator in one. Using the familiar Nutrition Facts label, it shows the nutritional content—calories, fats, carbs, sugars and more—of nearly 2,000 foods adjusted to portion size.

The Perfect Portions Scale recently won two prestigious awards at 2011’s Housewares Design Awards, receiving Best in Category for Food Preparation Electrics and Best of Best Silver for the entire show.

Suggested Retail Price: $49.99

Product Specialties Inc. [tel] 877.668.0818 www.productspec.com

KITCHENAID DIGITAL SCALE HIC BLUE SCALE Designed by Taylor exclusively for HIC, this scale has an 11-pound capacity with 0.1-ounce increments for more precise measuring. The zero reset function, or tare feature, allows users to weigh ingredients in a container without it counting toward the contents and calculate the weight of additional ingredients as they are added. It also features an auto/manual shut off and includes batteries.

Suggested Retail Price: $29.99

DMD Brands [tel] 314.991.8494, ext. 150 www.perfectportionsscale.com

The KitchenAid Digital Kitchen Scale features a brightly lit LCD screen for easy reading and touch-screen controls for easy use. The “add and weigh” tare feature allows for weighing individual ingredients as they are placed into a container. With a stainless steel surface that is easy to clean,this battery-operated kitchen scale measures 7.5" by 8.5" and features an 11-pound, or 5-kilogram, capacity. It uses a standard 9-volt alkaline battery that is not included.

Suggested Retail Price: $49.99 Lifetime Brands Inc. [tel] 800.252.3390 www.lifetimebrands.com

HIC—Harold Import Co. Inc. [tel] 732.364.3253 or 800.526.2163 www.haroldimport.com

SLIM FROM ADE BY FRIELING USA

ARTI KITCHEN SCALE

The Kalorik Digital Kitchen Scale has a 176-ounce capacity with a 1-ounce resolution. It also can measure different weights and show the result of the total.

This food scale comes with a long-life lithium battery and has auto off, tare and more.This scale has a bright backlit display and a glass platform.

Suggested Retail Price: $39.99

Capable of weighing liquid and dry ingredients up to 15 pounds with an accuracy of 0.1 ounces, or 1 gram, Arti’s list of features is long. Its crisp and clear display, which is 50 percent larger than commonly found on a kitchen scale, sits between the user-friendly touch-sensitive controls and results in a single smooth glass surface. Other features include multiple measuring units, including ounces, pounds and ounces or grams and liquids in fluid ounces or milliliters; tare feature; display hold feature; automatic shut-off to ensure long battery life; easy-to-clean glass surface; and ultra slim profile.

Kalorik [tel] 305.430.9687, ext. 112 www.kalorik.com

Escali Scales [tel] 952.4691965 www.escali.com

KALORIK DIGITAL KITCHEN SCALE

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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

This sleek scale is ultra thin at less than a half inch. It weighs dry and liquid ingredients in pounds, fluid ounces, grams and milliliters. SLIM's surface is made of sturdy safety glass and its display is easy to read, even with a big bowl on top.It contains two sensor-touch buttons, so no pressing is necessary. This compact scale is also well suited to weigh letters or parcels. It can be stored upright on a bookshelf or flat in a drawer.

The capacity is 11 pounds in 0.04-ounce increments. The scale is available in white, red, silver or black.

Suggested Retail Price: $39.95 Frieling [tel] 800.827.2582 www.frieling.com

www.kitchenwarenews.com

{ n e w p ro d u c t s } ELIZABETHW APRONS The new, 100 percent cotton aprons from elizabethW are made in the United States and come in 10 vibrant patterns and 21 styles to flatter the hostess.

Designed by Albert Nichols, founder of elizabethW, each apron boasts one deep waist pocket for both sides, flirtatious flounces, a flattering halter top design with contrast bias trim details and an adjustable neck and waist, so one size fits most. Handcrafted in the elizabethW workshop in San Francisco, each form-fitting hostess apron is machine washable.

Suggested Retail Price: $48 elizabethW [tel] 415.351.2800 www.elizabethw.com

PORTRAIT PLATES FROM THE NATIONAL GALLERY

Suggested Retail Price: $7, $8 and $14

Whitbread Wilkinson’s range of durable melamine plates features the funniest and most famous faces from The National Gallery. Perfect for anything from picnics to parties, these National Gallery plates are available in two sizes and a platter, with four different images each in the small and large plates and one image in the platter size.

Whitbread Wilkinson/w2 Products [email] angie@w2products.com www.w2products.com

BERARD CHEESE BOARD AND KNIFE Located in the mountains of Provence, Berard has specialized in creating handcrafted olive wood boards, bowls and kitchen utensils since 1892. The craftsmanship of each item is highlighted by the unique patterns and grain of the olive wood. As beautiful as a piece of art but as functional as your most essential kitchen tool, the Berard Cheese Board and Knife will delight everyone from the kitchen novice to the master chef.

Suggested Retail Price: $64 The French Farm [tel] 713.660.0577 www.thefrenchfarm.com

THE EGG SCRAMBLER The new patent-pending Egg Scrambler from Hutzler Manufacturing offers a fast and easy way to beat an egg without the need for dirtying extra bowls, whisks or forks. The small self-contained egg look-alike is all that’s needed to quickly beat up to three eggs at once. Just crack an egg, pour into the Egg Scrambler, add the agitator ball and shake for a few seconds. The Egg Scrambler also features an eggcracking edge and a removable egg separator. Made of plastic, it is dishwasher safe and BPA free. It is available in a colorful counter display containing 12 pieces of assorted white and brown Egg Scramblers.

Suggested Retail Price: $6 Gourmac division of Hutzler Manufacturing Co. Inc. [tel] 800.243.7700 www.hutzlerco.com

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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

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{ news in brief } Lynne’s Whim opened its permanent showroom at AmericasMart in Atlanta in time for the International Gift and Home show in July. The three Lynne’s Whim collections are on display. “We continue to create products and needed a permanent space in which to display everything properly,” said Designer Lynne Rutkowski. “This allows for the retailer to get ideas for their store display.” The Lynne’s Whim Showroom is in Building 2 West Wing, 8th floor, Suite 8101A. Cuisinart and sister company Waring donated $10,000 worth of kitchen electrics and cookware to Al Roker’s Lend a Hand goodwill road trip, which was featured on the Today Show in June. In its 10th year, the Lend a Hand program provides aid to small charities across the country that work toward improving conditions in their communities. Roker’s journey began in Anchorage, Alaska, and continued in Las Vegas; Houston; Birmingham, Ala.; and Charleston, W. Va. Stamford, Conn.-based Cuisinart’s contribution benefited the Culinary Training Academy in Las Vegas.

Everything from cookware sets and food processors to stand mixers and ice cream makers were given to help the CTA continue offering low-cost hospitality training to students, an affordable restaurant and catering service, and free meals to needy children. In addition, Cuisinart and Waring donated several products to the Community Kitchens of

Birmingham. Community Kitchens is a nonprofit organization dedicated to feeding anyone who is hungry.

Casafina, creator, designer and importer of casual Casa Stone® Portuguese stoneware, as well as fine European handcrafted tableware, giftware and bath accessories, has launched a new website, www.casafinagifts.com The new Casafina website includes features such as Casafina Store of the Month, where Casafina dealers are highlighted; Table Inspirations, where interesting pattern and color combinations are suggested; and a Bridal Assistant, offering registry tips for the bride. Other tools include a wish list creator that can be printed and brought in to a Casafina dealer, product availability forms, find a store locator and a link to the 2011 Casafina catalog. Special offers for the trade will also be presented.

Town Cutler, a specialty cutlery shop, opened in San Francisco, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. Galen Garretson serves as owner and knife sharpener at his store that also sells knives and culinary tools from Zanmai, Kikuichi and F. Dick.

Jenna Sellers Miller, President of Architec, was elected to the Board of Directors of the International Housewares Association, the full-service trade association for the housewares industry. She began her threeyear term Jan. 13. Sellers Miller joined

Architec in 1999 as a Sales Assistant. She took control of the housewares division when it was created in 2000. The small housewares company designs, manufactures and sells food prep category products under the brands Architec, Luxe, Ecosmart, Eco Kitchen and Kitchen District. Sellers Miller has been a member of the board for Alice Ink Inc., Architec’s parent company, since 2002.

Whitford, a maker of nonstick coatings based in Elverson, Pa., hired Becky Tatangelo as its Consumer Brand Manager-North America. In this position, Tatangelo will concentrate her efforts on consumer brand owners in the United States, focusing primarily on small electrics. Tatangelo previously worked for Range-Kleen and Innova on development, sourcing and sales of cookware and small appliances. She also worked as a vendor for the Home Shopping Network. Tatangelo has been part of the housewares industry for 13 years.

Sierra Trading Post, a brick and click e-tailer, has expanded its options for kitchen, dining and patio and put more focus into stylizing its photography to provide “create the look” ideas for customers. Sierra Trading Post, which first expanded its kitchenware offerings in 2007, is meeting increased demand by partnering with new furnishings brands and rounding out the offering in existing

home categories. “It’s exciting to see our home and gift selection expanding. In the kitchen category, we don’t just carry linens and a random gadget here and there; we now focus on a total package approach with the addition of cookware, dinnerware, flatware, cutlery and stemware.

We are also trying to add small appliances to the mix,” says Heather Jahnke, Buyer for Sierra Trading Post. Sierra Trading Post produces and distributes five Home & Gift catalogs annually. Each title features topbrand product as well as holiday and seasonally focused choices. A top 100 Internet retailer, Sierra Trading Post also operates four outlet stores in Boise, Idaho; Reno, Nev.; Cheyenne and Cody, Wyo. As Jura Capresso expands its business, the company has hired Stephen Cracchiolo in the newly created position of Operations Manager. Cracchiolo will manage all IT and operating systems, parts and inventory control for the Closter, N.J.-based business. He will also be responsible for overseeing the Jura Capresso warehouse and analyzing and improving the company’s processes. Cracchiolo will report to Michael Schley, Director of Finance.

Before joining Jura Capresso, Cracchiolo served as an Analyst at Panasonic. He has also worked at DigitalEffex as Operations Manager. Jura Capresso markets Jura automatic coffee centers and the Capresso line of coffee makers, espresso machines, grinders, electric water kettles and frothers.

ADVERTISER INDEX Aervoe ....................................................................6 Bella Tavola/Alison Group..............................19 Creative Tops ......................................................18 Cucina Pro...........................................................21 Evriholder ..............................................................6 Flirty Aprons.......................................................13 Fox Run ..................................................................2 Franmara..............................................................20 Full Circle............................................................14 fusionbrands .......................................................26 Hewlett Manufacuting .....................................17 Linden Sweden...................................................19 LS Arts .................................................................12 Mastrad ................................................................28 NYIGF.................................................................27 Parasia...................................................................23 Parrish ..................................................................25 Pragotrade/Weston ...........................................12 Prodyne ..................................................................8 SCI Scandicrafts ................................................24 Signature Housewares .........................................7 Talisman Designs ...............................................14 Tribest ..................................................................10 Victorinox ...........................................................16 Wilshire Industries ............................................15 Zak Designs...........................................................5

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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

www.kitchenwarenews.com

Trade Show Buzz With the Summer Fancy Food Show about to kick off at press time, this month’s Trade Show Buzz will focus on a full slate of autumn shows. In July, we do know the California Gift Show featured more than 10,000 lines from more than 1,200 exhibitors, with an unusually high ratio of products designed and created in state.

This year, attendees were able to preview and plan with the CGS Look Book, an easy-to-navigate e-catalog emailed in advance of the show.

The New York International Gift Fair (Aug. 14 to 18) is big this year, incorporating for the first time the Gourmet Housewares Show. Find out all about in the interview with Show Director Dorothy Belshaw on page 1.

September will be a bumper month for shows. The Dallas Total Home & Gift Market kicks things off Sept. 10 to 12, with categories for both home accessories and gourmet food, and the Fall L.A. Mart Market is set for Sept. 18 to 20.Details were unavailable at press time, but should come out soon on www.lamart.com.

Later in the month, Natural Products Expo HOUSEWARES (Cont. from p.14) Todd Sudakoff, one of Wilshire’s Principals, said the company wanted to give its bamboo products a different look and feel, and decided that adding color was the way to go.

“We use food-grade dye, mineral oil and beeswax, and zero formaldehyde glue,” said Sudakoff. “It allows us to add color and still keep the line affordable.” The line includes cutting boards in four sizes, six generously sized serving utensils made of Moso bamboo with handles featuring a decorative rainbow wood accent, and silicone utensils with dark red silicone heads that are coordinated to curved solid rainbow wood handles.

Sudakoff noted that new bowls, drawer organizers and trays will also be introduced at NYIGF under the Hue Bamboo brand.

A whole new line of pepper mills from Cole & Mason, and redesigned products in the onion chopper and mandoline lines from Zyliss, both brands under the DKB Household US umbrella, will debut at NYIGF. According to Will Symonds, DKB’s President, Cole & Mason will expand its salt and pepper mill line to incorporate precision mechanics, just in time for the holiday season. The twostage mechanism, which first cracks the peppercorn and then slices it, creating an optimum grind that preserves oils, is made of carbon steel that is machine cut and case hardened. “The flavor is in the oils, and this process produces a lovely, fluffy grind,” said Symonds.

From Zyliss comes an onion chopper that offers a new, ergonomic design and quality, www.kitchenwarenews.com

cookware and high quality cutlery as well as specialty food.

by Rocelle Aragon

East (Sept. 22 to 24 in Baltimore), will provide a firsthand view of the huge growth in natural food and home products.

Normally a smaller show than its spring West Coast counterpart, this year’s Expo East is already showing signs of catching up. Speakers include best-selling business author Daniel Pink and blue-chip green activist Laurie David, one of the producers of “An Inconvenient Truth.”

All Things Baking (Oct. 2 to 4, Chicago) is a new show, developed by the Retail Bakers of America, the American Bakers’ Association and the Bakery Equipment Manufacturers & Allieds. The show will step into the two-year gap between the triennial International Baking Industry Exposition.

The Gourmet Experience (Oct. 8 to 9, San Diego), goes big this year with 12 new specialty pavilions. Previously a cooking and home entertainment show, this year’s Gourmet Experience will include the Culinary Solutions Pavilion, showcasing high-tech solutions for the gourmet kitchen; and a focused trade-only section, the Chef ’s Marketplace, with more than 150 exhibitors of kitchen equipment,

“This year’s specialty pavilions give attendees a chance to discover the latest in new products, cooking solutions, and entertaining while connecting with hundreds of today’s leading and emerging gourmet and culinary brands,” said Michelle Metter, co-producer of the Gourmet Experience.

The regional show connects chefs, restaurateurs, gourmet retailers, consumers and bloggers with today’s leading gourmet brands. This year’s 12 pavilions provide a good segmentation: Culinary Solutions, Sweet Discoveries, Bounty of the County, Olive Oil Tasting, Cheeses of the World, Charcuterie, Spice Alley, Grilling and Outdoor Entertaining, Kitchen, Design & Remodel, Designer Inspirations, That’s the Spirit! (beverages), and the Kids Cook!

Activity Center. Members of the trade can attend free when they pre-register by Sept.

15. To do so and for complete information, visit www.thegourmetexpo.com.

Further afield is Anuga (Oct. 8 to 12, Cologne, Germany), a global fair spotlighting the European market. The NASFT has created a program for affordable participation in this sprawling show, which incorporates 10 mini-shows for all aspects of the food industry and has seen growing U.S. participation in recent years. Details of this can be found www.specialtyfood.com.

2011

{ t ra d e s h o w b u z z } TRADE SHOW CALENDAR

AUGUST 2011 5-9 Minneapolis Gift, Home & Accessory Show Minneapolis Mart Minneapolis, MN 800.626.1298 www.mplsmart.com 6-9 Orlando Gift Show Orange County Convention Center Orlando, FL 678.285.3976 www.orlandogiftshow.com 6-9 San Francisco International Gift Fair Moscone Center San Francisco, CA 678.285.3976 www.sfigf.com 10-16 Summer Gift and Home Accessories Show Pacific Market Center Seattle, WA 800.433.1014 www.pacificmarketcenter.com 13-16 The Seattle Gift Show Washington State Convention & Trade Center Seattle, WA 678.285.3976 www.seattlegiftshow.com 14-18 New York International Gift Fair/ Gourmet Housewares Show at NYIGF Jacob K. Javits Convention Center New York, NY, 800.272.SHOW www.nyigf.com, www.thegourmetshow.com 26-30 Tendence Lifestyle, Collection Frankfurt Fair & Exhibition Center Frankfurt, Germany, +49 69 75 75 0 www.messefrankfurt.com

Japanese stainless steel blades. “It offers uncommon durability and style,” said Symonds, about the sleek, countertop unit, which is available in the U.S. retail market this month and retails for $26.99.

Also from Zyliss is a Gourmet Mandoline with a V-shaped, German blade and a drop-down-for-use blade guard. “The Vblade offers the best mandoline performance,” said Symonds, “because it provides a clean, progressive cut.”

Symonds noted many consumers are intimidated by mandolines because of the sharp blades. “On the Gourmet Mandoline, there’s a trigger in the handle that causes the guards to drop down. When you release the handle, the guard reengages. It’s a brand new, innovative design,” he explained. The food holder clips onto a twin track for additional safety.

“NYIGF has always been a good orderwriting forum for us,” said Symonds, “as well as a marketing venue. We think adding the Gourmet Housewares section will increase attendance and give us the opportunity to introduce our products to even more kitchen people.”

Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2011

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