kitchenware news - Oser Communications Group

Transcription

kitchenware news - Oser Communications Group
MARKET WATCH:
BUYERS’ GUIDE:
SPECIAL FEATURE:
WHAT’S NEW AT THE NYIGF
THERMOMETERS & SCALES
SCHOOL-YEAR PRODUCTS
SEE PAGE 1
SEE PAGE 16
SEE PAGE 1
IN
SO STO SID
LU RA E:
TIO GE
NS
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
VOLUME 16, 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 2010
Back-to-School
Products Focus on
Durability and Style
by Carrie Bui
As parents and kids gear up for a new school
year, a variety of products are available to meet
the needs of parents and their students.
Manufacturers are focused on offering durable,
yet stylish, back-to-school products.
Patrick Welch, Sales Manager for Hannon Group,
Ltd., maker of Sachi Insulated Lunch Totes, said
he thinks parents are looking for items that are
economical, well-made and easy to clean. “The
best feature (of Sachi lunch totes) is the
insulation,” Welch said. Food will hold its
temperature for at least six hours, even longer
with a small ice pack. Parents will appreciate the
financial savings that a reusable lunch tote brings,
he said, and an insulated tote such as Sachi offers
peace of mind regarding food safety.
Continued on Page 18
NYIGF Show
Reflects First Steps
for Strategic Plan
by Joanne Friedrick
The New York International Gift Fair will see the
fulfillment of the first of three phases of the
organization’s strategic plan when it gets under way
Aug. 14 to 19 in New York.
With 2,800 exhibits at the Jacob K. Javits
Convention Center, as well as Passenger Ship
Terminal Piers 92 and 94, the event is expected to
draw 35,000 visitors.
Organizers of the NYIGF announced earlier this
year a strategic plan that expands and refines the
categories at the show as well as accommodates the
remodeling at the Javits Center.
NYIGF Director and GLM Senior Vice
President Dorothy Belshaw said an ongoing
market recovery helped bring back the New
York’s Newest section, which will be found at
Pier 92. “We had a dip (in show participation)
in 2009,” she said, “but we’ve seen an
appropriate and healthy level of growth,” which
has brought the show back to where it was in
previous years.
Continued on Page 20
w w w . k i t c h e n w a r e n e w s . c o m
{ headlines }
Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium Named Florida’s Top Retailer
Karen and Dave West, Owners of the
Rolling Pin Kitchen Emporium, were
named winners of the 2010 Florida Retailer
of the Year Award for Leadership (ROYAL)
by the Florida Retail Federation.
“There are many fine retailers in Florida
who contribute greatly to the foundation of
Florida’s economy,” said Rick McAllister,
FRF President and CEO, in a prepared
release. “Our outstanding ROYAL recipients
represent retailers who are dedicated to
helping people in their communities. We
are pleased to have the opportunity to
recognize the Wests this year.”
The annual awards program recognizes
retailers who have successfully blended
business skills with a commitment to
their customers, communities, employees
and the state’s retail industry. A
selection committee comprising retail
business operators, educators and other
industry officials chose the recipients
from a pool of 1,700 retailer nominees
from across the state. The Wests were
honored at a luncheon in conjunction with
the University of Florida’s nationally
acclaimed Retailing Smarter symposium
on June 24 at the Omni Orlando Resort
at Champions Gate.
The Wests opened their first Rolling Pin
Kitchen Emporium in 1995 and a second
location in Tampa in 1997. In 2006 their
dreams of taking the Rolling Pin in a new
direction became a reality when they
consolidated efforts under one roof
combining 3,500 square feet of retail space
with a 1,000-square-foot Culinary Center.
Today, offering hard-to-find as well as oldfashioned items, trendy tools and small
appliances, artisan and gourmet foods for
sampling and purchase, and a coffee and tea
center, the Rolling Pin is a culinary resource
for Tampa foodies. The online store, which
ultimately will offer the 18,000-plus items
available at their bricks-and-mortar location,
helped the couple expand their market.
“Food is a universal language for most of
us,” said Dave West in prepared remarks,
who joined Karen in the business full-time
in 2004. Formally trained at The French
Culinary Institute in New York City,
he heads up cooking classes at the
Rolling Pin’s Culinary Center. “At The
Rolling Pin, we take great pleasure in
helping customers create meals and
dishes that make them the culinary star
with their family and friends. We supply
the tools, products and knowledge; they
supply the passion and love to make each
meal special.”
As local business owners, the Wests are
firmly committed to source locally
whenever possible and promote other area
businesses. They seek products and services
from local vendors and showcase chefs
from local restaurants for the Culinary
Center. Dave is currently working with
the newly formed Slow Food Tampa Bay
group to unite and bring local producers
of high-quality produce and meats into
area restaurants, cooking schools and
public schools. The group is committed
to educating the public, encouraging local
eating, and recognizing and assisting those
suppliers who use safe and sustainable
methods of food production.
The Wests support various community
programs and organizations as well. These
include the Moffitt Cancer Center and the
Alpha House of Tampa Bay, where Dave
teaches cooking classes to at-risk mothers
and mothers-to-be. The Rolling Pin hosts
charity events that benefit the Brandon
Nativity Food Bank and many local school
and parent/teacher organizations.
Since 1999, FRF has recognized
outstanding excellence in retailing by
presenting the ROYAL awards.
CASTEY SENSO CUTLERY
With Senso cutlery, Castey enters the
tableware market. Castey’s first cutlery
offers simplicity of lines, but also an
innovative and modern appearance.
The shape and weight of each piece
has been adapted to achieve the
maximum comfort. Senso is created by
Spanish designer Jorge Pensi, in
conjunction with Castey. The collection
has 18 pieces available through seven
different sets.
Castey Global SL
[tel] 34.972.47.77.52
www.castey.com
2
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
www.kitchenwarenews.com
august 2010
contents
6
8
9
16
22
a
{ shorts }
Clothes and Go Named ‘Next Big Thing’ at Dallas Market
Clothes and Go, an invention designed to
help store and move clothes, was the winner
of The Next Big Thing contest at the Dallas
Market Center’s Total Home & Gift Market
in late June.
The winners, Myra Prescott and Julie
Tobolowsky, created Clothes and Go as a
solution to moving clothing on hangers. Clothes
are removed from the closet on hangers, placed
in the Clothes and Go bag and can then be
easily carried to a vehicle for moving.
The product was selected the winner from
among three finalists, including Sand Gone, a
sand removal body powder, and Sutton Baking
Cups, a line of designer cupcake liners. The
winners received $5,000 in cash, exhibit space
at the January 2011 Total Home & Gift
Market, a profile in one of Dallas Market
“If you aren’t having fun decorating a cake,
it shows,” said Goldman in a prepared
statement. “I am psyched to make cake
decorating accessible to everyone. Every
celebration needs a cake, and this stuff
makes it easy to have an amazing one.”
In a recent survey, Gartner Studios Inc.
found that people worry that cake
decorating is time-consuming and
without the right skills and tools, it won’t
look perfect.
The Duff Goldman line includes
premium cake mixes, fondant, fondant
cutters and smoother, icing, icing spatulas,
sprinkles, cake tattoos, cake graffiti, food
color gels, texture tiles, cake wires and a
15-piece decorating set. Prices range from
$1.99 to $24.99.
Gartner Studios is a leader in the
stationery, party goods and greeting card
industry, offering more than 7,000
RETAILER PROFILE
PRODUCT REVIEW
BUYERS’ GUIDE
AD INDEX
b
d
f
e
ON THE COVER
‘Ace of Cakes’ Star Launches Cake Decorating Line
Duff Goldman by Gartner Studios is a
brand new line of decorating tools and cake
mixes designed by Duff Goldman, Founder
of Charm City Cakes in Baltimore and star
of Food Network’s ‘Ace of Cakes.’ The new
line of professional-grade products is
designed to take anyone from beginner to
professional with its broad range of cake
mixes, pans, fondant, icing and creative
decorating tools for use at home.
by Thomas Perez, Bodum USA
c
Center’s publications and consultations with
industry experts on branding, public relations
and visual merchandising.
Judges from consumer and trade publications
helped select the winner based on the
finalists’ product, trade space presentation
and sell ability during the market. A popular
vote was also taken via Dallas Market
Center’s Facebook page.
GUEST COLUMN
products through major retailers and
specialty stores. Premier brand licenses
include BRIDES and the new Duff
Goldman by Gartner Studios.
a
PRESERVE
Food Storage Set
[tel] 888.354.7296
www.preserveproducts.com
b
EVRIHOLDER PRODUCTS LLC
Goldfish Snack Container
[tel] 800.975.0335
www.evriholder.com
c
RÖSLE
Mini Grill & Oven Thermometer Set
[tel] 302.326.4801
www.rosleusa.com
d
ASTA GLASS
XYZ Martini Glass & Pitcher
[tel] 415.467.1935
www.astaglass.com
e
HIC-HAROLD IMPORT CO.
Ultimate Rapid Whisk
[tel] 800.526.2163
www.haroldimport.com
f
R.S.V.P. INTERNATIONAL
Measuring Spoon Caddy
[tel] 800.275.7787
www.rsvp-intl.com
future
features
SEPTEMBER
Kitchen Textiles
ABC Kids Show Preview
Holiday Gift Guide
Kids’ Kitchenware Products
Buyers’ Guide
www.kitchenwarenews.com
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
3
publisher’s
note
The Latin phrase “Fortes fortuna advuivat” or “Fortune favors the bold”
came to mind today when I was speaking with our editor about the exciting
new product introductions she is seeing this summer. According to Wikipedia, the phrase
originates with Fortuna, goddess of luck, who was more likely to help those who take actions or
risks. As I’ve mentioned in this space before, companies that innovate and bring exciting new
products to market during a tough economy are bound to do well in the long-term. This type of
optimism verges on the courageous, especially for brand new companies to step out as the economy
continues to experience hiccups and as consumer confidence continues to lag. We all benefit from
more innovative products in the pipeline, and this excitement is contagious and ultimately will
gently entice consumers to spend.
&
KITCHENWARE NEWS
Housewares Review
w w w. k i t c h e n w a r e n e w s . c o m
PUBLISHER
karen_t@oser.com
[tel] 323.397.9507
EDITOR
Joanne Friedrick
joanne_f@oser.com
[tel] 207.780.8656
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Carrie Bui
carrie_b@oser.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
In keeping with the theme of the bold, our guest column this month features Thomas Perez of
Bodum USA. He discusses how the instantaneousness of social media outlets and blogs has
enhanced consumer intelligence with regard to manufacturers’ product offerings. He suggests this
new information stream and the emphasis on using locally available produce, ala the slow food
movement, among other current trends in the kitchen have encouraged the company to continue
to step out with design and color. Thomas stresses that creating a family of products that is wide
enough for the consumer to embrace is a key factor for Bodum.
Karen Taylor
Valerie Wilson
ads@oser.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Yasmine Brown
art@oser.com
TRAFFIC MANAGER
Selene Pinuelas
deadline@oser.com
Back to school is not just about lunch boxes these days, and we examine the breadth of products
in this category available for retailers to merchandise around this pre-holiday time of year. Fun,
fashion and function are important qualities as more kids are bringing lunches. Reusable water
bottles and lunch-on-the-go products continue as strong trends.
SUBSCRIBER SERVICES
1877 N. Kolb Road
Tucson, Arizona 85715
[tel] 520.721.1300
Looking ahead, we’ve got our annual Holiday Gift Guide in September with a preview of the ABC
Kids Expo and a buyers’ guide featuring the ever-growing category of children’s kitchenware products.
Enjoy the remainder of summer and the bounty of new products out there.
Karen Taylor, Publisher
karen_t@oser.com
[fax] 520.721.6300
KITCHENWARE/HOUSEWARES ADVERTISING
SENIOR
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Kate Seymour
kate_s@oser.com
[tel] 520.721.1300
editor’s
note
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
In an ideal world, retailers would fill their stores with products, flip
the “open” sign and watch the sales roll in.
Unfortunately, the reality—especially these days with people watching where every dollar
goes—is that retailers need to do much more than simply be there. They have to entice
customers to their stores, create a sense of fun and excitement around the products and
then support all of that with great customer service. Established retailers have the advantage
of having created a rapport with local shoppers who now feel comfortable with the staff,
the merchandise and the format.
But what about those people who are recent entrants to the business? Anyone who has
opened a store within the past couple of years has faced the added challenge of not only
gaining shoppers’ attention, but also having to deal with a down economy.
Having profiled many retailers over the past several months, I’ve come to really respect
the effort that goes into running a successful kitchenware store. While savvy product selection
is a big part of the equation, another huge factor is the ability to create an atmosphere that
makes that shopper want to select this store over all the others.
Susan Green, who runs Birmingham Bake & Cook in Birmingham, Ala., keeps coming
up with different ways to make her store stand out from the competition and more
importantly, bring people through the doors. Maybe not everything she plans will be a huge
success, but that’s OK, because there’s a new idea right around the corner. Since opening
her store just a couple of years ago, Green has instituted a used cookbook exchange,
conducted an in-store pie contest, a fundraiser for the local Humane Society, a holiday cookie
swap and has gotten word out on her store through her email list and Facebook page. She’s
also used a public relations person to secure her time on TV and mentions in the newspaper.
For a new business, getting the word out is critical, as is creating traffic into the store. How
many of us have driven by a business we haven’t seen before, but have failed to stop
because we know nothing about it? Usually by the time we decide we should check it out,
they are having their going-out-of-business sale. Retailers old and new have lots to teach
one another. I hope you’ll make a point to check out our retailer profiles each month to
see what new ideas you can find.
PRESIDENT
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. ©2010 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.
Joanne Friedrick, Editor
joanne_f@oser.com
4
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
www.kitchenwarenews.com
{ headlines }
Licensing Royalty Revenues Decline as
Industry Develops Avenues for Growth
Impacted by a weak consumer spending climate
at retail, brand owners collected nearly $5.2
billion in licensing royalty revenue in North
America in 2009, down 8.7 percent from the year
before, according to the annual Licensing
Industry Survey from the International
Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association.
This marks the second year of decline.
Overall, royalty revenues declined 5.6
percent in 2008 after steadily rising each
year since LIMA began collecting data.
The survey results were released at the
opening session of the LIMA-sponsored
Licensing International Expo 2010 in June.
LIMA’s numbers are derived from results
of its annual survey of companies directly
involved in the licensing business,
examination of public financial documents,
and interviews with licensing industry
executives, with the goal of providing
reliable data to help licensing professionals
identify trends and growth opportunities.
“These results are not surprising as
consumers continued to limit their
spending on non-essential products for
most of 2009,” said Charles Riotto,
President of LIMA, in prepared remarks.
“Looking ahead, however, as the economy
continues to improve and retailers’
inventories come back into balance, I am
optimistic that we are poised for
improvement as we see our members
exploring new and different opportunities
and partnerships to ensure future growth.”
In the survey, brand owners cited last year’s
still-sluggish consumer spending, a
conservative climate at retail, a longer
decision-making cycle and royalty pressure
against a backdrop of an economy in slow
turnaround as reasons for the slide. However,
notes of optimism were sounded:
respondents reported success in expanding
their licensing business internationally in
Pillivuyt and EZ Brite Team Up to Fight Grill Residue
For the past several years, Europeans have
experienced the joy, the economy and the
environmental friendliness of using
Pillivuyt porcelain roasters and bakers on
the grill. With the development of the
handled Eden bakers and the new black
porcelain ware, the concept is now making
a splash in the United States.
The advantages of grilling in a pan such as
the Pillivuyt Eden bakers are multiple: the
juices and seasonings are retained and
collected in the baker instead of burning up
www.kitchenwarenews.com
in the coals; more complex and highly
flavored dishes can be cooked on the grill as
you would in the oven; the dish can be
brought directly from the grill to the table;
and last, but not least, it is no longer necessary
to discard the pan and buy a new one for your
next grill creation.
Now Pillivuyt has discovered a way to make
the clean-up easier. Because charcoal
briquettes have chemical elements, if the
coals are not heated to white-hot, they will
leave a certain amount of residue on pans on
the grill. Working in conjunction with EZ
Brite Brands, Pillivuyt has found the EZ
Brite Cooktop Cleaner to be a highly
effective way to remove this residue and
restore the dishes to like-new appearance.
Starting this summer, retailers will
have access to samples of this
cleaner to provide to their
customers with all Pillivuyt
Eden baker purchases. This
easy-to-use gel is completely
food-safe, biodegradable and
environmentally safe.
2009, and licensors continued a trend toward
more diversified retail distribution, getting
their goods exposure in (and in some cases,
developing promotional partnerships with)
specialty stores, drug stores, dollar stores,
supermarkets and independents as well as
large mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs
and online retailers.
Nearly half (46 percent) of licensing
industry royalty revenues are generated in
the character segment, which includes
characters from all portions of the
entertainment business. This segment
declined 7.9 percent in 2009. Other major
segments of the licensing industry include
corporate trademarks/brands, accounting
for 17 percent of the business, fashion (14
percent) and sports (13 percent).
In these tough economic times, it just makes
sense to avoid disposable tools, and with this
happy combination of a great cooking
method, a beautiful dish for the table, and an
easy way to clean it, barbecue takes on a
whole new realm of possibilities.
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
5
VitaClay
The latest innovation in ancient nutrition
The award-winning VitaClay® Rice N’ Slow Cooker Pro was voted “TOP RATED
SLOW COOKER” from Good Housekeeping in March 2009. VitaClay® is made of
natural, unglazed, highly prized Zisha clay that brings out true flavor and preserves
vital nutrients. Free from Teflon, chemicals or heavy metals
Traditional cultures around the world prize clay pot cooking for its many advantages:
superbly sealed-in flavors, nutrients preserved, and incredible food texture. The allnew VitaClay multicookers fuse traditional health with modern technology. Preprogrammed options for brown and white rice as well as slow cooking options for stews
and soups give you the convenience of a slow cooker, the versatility of a rice cooker
and steamer, and the health and taste benefits of clay. The multi-cooker Pro models
also allow for delayed timing, ideal for busy families who want a hot meal ready when
everyone arrives home. Slow-cooked meals are cooked in a perfectly computerized
balance of temperature in half the time of a traditional slow cooker (most meals in 3090 minutes), providing exceptional flavors and texture, using 50% less energy. This
slow cooker is the perfect solution for fresh, whole, home-cooked meals on the go.
guest
column
Electrics:
Turning a Red Ocean Blue
by Thomas Perez
Bodum USA
“I've been looking for a clay rice cooker for a long time. I use
it every day to make rice, stew and soup for my family. It's
really simple and healthy!!!”
– “Happy Mom” in St Louis, MO
“What an outstanding piece of equipment! The quality of the
food is so enhanced by the VitaClay cooking method”
– Chef John, CEO and Executive Chef
The full line of VitClay® cookers can be found at www.VitaClayChef.com.
We welcome comments, questions and suggestions by email or phone!
Contact: sales@essenergy.com • 877.877.9121 or 408.956.8668
The kitchen continues to be the hub of
social gatherings, and people want their
appliances and cookware to reflect their
personal style as much as the décor. We
can see by the rise of celebrity chefs and
a multitude of restaurant reality shows
that the kitchen is by far the trendiest
room in the house. We also see active
participation from families preparing
their nightly meals to friends and
neighbors gathering for social events.
Conversations flow from at which
farmer’s markets they bought their
vegetables to the performance level of
their grinders and the energy efficiency
of their water kettles. With the
overabundance of social media outlets
and professional bloggers, the power is
with the consumer—and savvy they are.
As a manufacturer, we have to be ready
to be scrutinized and be certain that we
are bringing quality, innovation and
fashion—something different to the
table—in order to stay afloat.
In years past the modern kitchen was
defined as sleek and minimal. There was
an illusion of order by hiding functional
appliances. With increased activity in
the kitchen we no longer want to hide
our tools; we want to celebrate the
process and show off our wares. Plus, we
need them close at hand. To celebrate
the joy of cooking is a sensory
experience. We want to indulge in the
savory smells and flavors and see the
wonderful colors of spices and fresh
produce. This same idea carries over into
our appliances. They need to excite us,
they need to be a reflection of who we
are, and they need to have superior
performance. We want to display them
and discuss them; they are an extension
of our kitchen design. The colors of our
appliances offer the same sensory
6
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
experience as the food we are preparing.
While we always offered a small selection
of electrics in our assortment, it wasn’t
until this year that Bodum wholeheartedly entered the category with a
complete collection. It wasn’t necessarily
a strategically planned effort to extend
our brand into a new market but rather
a quick response to customer demand for
fresh options and exciting vibrancy. The
feedback we kept hearing from our
customers worldwide was a gripe of stale
design and lack of
innovation in the
category and that
was our cue to
inject our broad
range of color and
functional design
into this arena.
Our E-Bodum
collection has been described as “power
tools for the kitchen” as well as “cute and
colorful,” showing the broad appeal
across the masses. From college students
to career couples, stay-at-home dads,
design enthusiasts, the young and old
alike, new brides building a kitchen and
master chefs shopping for their homes,
there is an appeal to all.
If you are going to compete in a red
ocean category (one that is established
and defined), you can’t be timid about it.
It is important to offer a cohesive product
line that can offer a complete kitchen
story and impactful merchandising
statement. You have to be fearless and
confident in your product’s design and
performance, with a wide enough
assortment for the consumer to embrace.
Thomas Perez is President of Bodum USA,
the U.S. division of the Swiss company.
www.kitchenwarenews.com
{ headlines }
lines from China, Peru and Brazil.
AmericasMart Adds, Expands HOME Center
The HOME Center at AmericasMart
Atlanta expanded with nearly 20 companies
on the HOME floors opening new
showrooms or expanding existing space at
the July Market—totaling more than
50,000 square feet of new product.
The new showrooms:
Home Treasures
9-C-5
Produces linens including down comforters,
pillows and other soft goods for the home.
Downright Ltd.
9-C-5
Creates and markets down comforters and
related products.
Creative Threads
9-A-18
Manufactures bedding, drapery panels and
wholesale fabrics.
Accents de Ville by Linea
10-A-8
A designer, importer and distributor of
decorative accessories, area rugs and fine linens.
Nexxt by Linea
10-C-6
Designs, manufactures and distributes
contemporary home decor and lifestyle
accessories
www.kitchenwarenews.com
HomeMax Imports
10-C-9, D-1,3
A leader in luxury rustic, western and lodgestyle bedding and linens.
Red Label
11-D-7;E-3A
A manufacturer and importer of 100 percent
handmade pottery, iron and glass home and
garden decorative accessories.
Riado
11-B-2
Features designer furnishings, home décor
and accents, lanterns and luminaries, fabrics
and more.
Dimond Lighting
12-C-7
Boasts a collection of more than 200 fashionforward lighting designs.
Coast to Coast Imports
12-C-11,D-1,3,5
Produces occasional home furnishings featuring
traditional, transitional and contemporary styles.
Guildmaster
13-C-2,4
Offers creatively designed wood pieces for
dining rooms, bedrooms, entertainment,
theater, library, office furnishings, occasional
tables and more.
Pebblehill Designs
13-E-4B
Assembles custom upholstered furniture
including headboards, specialty chairs,
ottomans and fabrics.
Silk For Less
14-C-4
Realistic silk florals and trees all assembled
in the United States.
The newly expanded HOME
showrooms include:
Peking Handicraft
10-A-4,E-22
Showcases a variety of handcrafted quilts,
bedding products, hooked rugs, needlepoint
pillows, tassels, linens and hand-painted glassware
and features new designs from Trina Turk.
Xia Home Fashion
10-E-21,23
A manufacturer of fine home fashion textile
products and accessories, featuring Europeaninspired cutwork and jacquard table linens and
kitchen textiles as well as the Manor Luxe line
of fashion bedding and curtains.
Silkroute International
11-E-15
Imports antiques, hand-woven rugs, furniture
and accessories from Afghanistan, Africa, India,
Nepal, Pakistan and Tibet and carries unique
Englishman’s
11-D-2, 11-F-2
Quality furniture following in the tradition
of English and other European designs from
the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries and using
artisan craftsmen to create luxury products.
G.O. Home
12-A-1;F-1
One of the largest manufacturers of giftware and
accessories in the home furnishings industry
featuring designer-driven accent furniture,
lighting, mirrors, wall décor, decorative
accessories and garden and holiday collections.
Zeugma Import
12-E-10
Showcases unique handcrafted pottery,
copper, solid wood lighting and mirrors by
local artisans in the Mediterranean region.
Stylecraft Home Collection
13-B-6;C-1
Offers lighting, wall décor, mirrors and
decorative accessories and produces framed
art and mirrors in the United States, as well
as imports products.
PORT 68
14-E-5
Presents classic designer-driven products
including home accessories, furniture and
lighting, all accented with color, pattern
and/or texture in a mix of materials.
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
7
Retailer Profile
Birmingham Bake & Cook Co.
In business for just two years, Birmingham
Bake & Cook in Birmingham, Ala., is a
reflection of Owner/Operator Susan Green’s
own culinary experience and interests.
A graduate of the Culinary Institute of
America, Green describes herself as a “very
basic person” who believes in everything that
she sells.
“I wanted the store to be kitchen, not gifty,” she
said. “I wanted to make sure that with the
products I brought in, nothing was gratuitous.”
The focus is on bakeware, cookware, cutlery,
small appliances and gadgets that are essentials.
That’s not to say there can’t be a bit of humor
and fun, said Green, “but even with gadgets,
it has to have merit.” She only carries Viking
electrics, she said, and limits the celebrityendorsed items.
Green said she goes to shows to scout out
some items, and also meets with reps to find
products. Her background in culinary
foodservice has given her a good foundation
in purchasing, she noted. In choosing
products, Green said she has found the
Gourmet Catalog buying group to be very
helpful, learning from people who have been
in the business 20 or 30 years.
But the bottom line for Green is having a
by Joanne Friedrick
passion for what she offers to her clientele. “If
you don’t love your stuff, people will know.”
The store, which encompasses just 1,200 square
feet, features an instructional kitchen for cooking
classes, about half of which Green conducts.
“A lot of the customers are Southern bakers,”
she noted, “so we do a lot of baking.” Most
classes are single subject, two-hour sessions.
The classes began in February 2009, and are
held about twice a week, she said.
Green said she likes to keep the topics
seasonal, and while there are some repeats,
such as sushi, knife skills and pizza, many are
ideas spawned from customer interests. In
addition to teaching some of the topics
herself, Green said she has called on local
chefs and restaurateurs as instructors.
“It took a while to learn what people were
looking for,” she said, “as well as to find the
right people to do the classes. I’m just now
developing a foundation for what to run.”
With limited space, Green said classes are
kept to a 24 person maximum, with 18 being
the ideal size for demonstrations. For handson instruction, the classes are limited to eight
to 10 participants.
As a new business, Green said she advertised
heavily the first year, spreading her ads among
many local publications. In addition, she hired
a public relations person who helped secure
some regular TV appearances with cooking
and product demonstration segments.
Green has an email list that she sends as
well, and the local newspaper picks up some
of her tips to share with its readers.
Just recently, she noted, she has started a dialog
with customers via the store’s Facebook page.
It’s still a work in progress, said Green, who adds
that she has a blog set up, but hasn’t posted to
it yet. And the store has a website as well.
The website points to some of the other
customer outreach projects that Green has
implemented or is planning to start up,
including a used cookbook exchange, bridal
registry, a cake pan lending library and a
customer loyalty program.
The cookbook exchange is already under way,
said Green, with about 100 or so books
available. People who bring in books receive
store credit with which they can buy products,
or they can exchange their books for other
ones that are available. The bridal and gift
registry just began recently, she said.
The cake pan lending library is an idea that
Green is trying to work out with the local library,
and her customer loyalty plan, called 19 Whisks,
is on the drawing board. She’s hoping to launch
that soon, “but I’m a one-woman show,” she
acknowledged, “so every day the priorities shift.”
She’s also planning her first in-store art show
called “Art That Cooks” featuring paintings
of kitchen equipment by a local artist. And
she’d like to do a similar project with pottery.
The store has sponsored a Knit Night, Foodie
Trivia Game Night and a holiday cookie swap.
For national pie day, Green conducted a pie
contest, with the proceeds going to Meals on
Wheels. And a Bake, Bark and Cook event
profited the local Humane Society. “I like to
do something two to three times a quarter,”
she said, adding “we’re big on charitable
donations” either through fundraising or gift
certificates and merchandise donations.
Events such as these, she said, bring in new
customers as well as existing ones, while
raising money and providing fun for Green
and her staff of two part-time workers. “I
think there has to be something going on all
the time to make life interesting,” she
explained. “It’s all about the customer.”
Green said she’d like to expand with a second
store at some point, but is still working on
fine-tuning her inventory. The city has a few
other independent cooking shops, along with
Williams-Sonoma, Home Goods and Pier 1.
She said the stores all refer customers back
and forth, knowing what one store doesn’t
carry, another might.
And she also would like to travel with food
enthusiasts with a culinary tour program she’s
developing called Fork in the Road. Green,
who has lived in San Francisco and New
York, sees those cities as prime candidates for
her gastronomic road show.
8
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
www.kitchenwarenews.com
Product Review
Sublime Anti-Fatigue Mat
If you’ve stood at your stove or your sink
for a significant period, you know it can
be tough on your feet. My kitchen floor is
a hard, textured tile, and standing barefoot
on that surface for a long time is
not comfortable. This month Kitchenware
News & Housewares Review tackled the
issue of foot and back discomfort with a
test of Sublime’s Imprint Anti-Fatigue
Comfort Mats.
Sublime claims these eco-friendly mats
are good for your health. The cushioning
reduces fatigue from standing and relieves
foot and back pain. “The anti-fatigue mats
work by conforming to the shape of your
feet and supporting the arches. The result
is an increased blood flow and soothing
relief from pressure that is often felt from
standing on hard surfaces,” according to a
press release.
The mats are manufactured without the use
of toxic materials. They have a safe, nonskid bottom and wipe clean with soap and
water. An antimicrobial treatment to the
mats prevents mold and mildew, and they
also absorb noise. Sublime offers a sevenyear warranty on the anti-fatigue mats.
We tried out the cinnamon-colored
Nantucket series mat that was 20 inches by
36 inches. I let my co-worker take the mat
www.kitchenwarenews.com
by Carrie Bui
home first for a weekend test run. She
returned to the office on Monday, and said
the mat offered her instant relief from her
foot pain. She speculated that over time,
the mat would also provide relief to her
lower back pain. My co-worker said her
feet sank into it, without feeling stuck in
it, and she called the mat “gently
supportive.” The mat remained stable on
the floor, and was easy to clean, even after
a meeting with a spilled cup of coffee.
felt overly stressed standing in my kitchen
as I cooked. However, now that I’ve added
the anti-fatigue mat to the kitchen, it feels
like an item I never knew I wanted until
I tried it out. The mat was comfortable
beneath my feet, and I couldn’t help but
notice how hard the tile floor seemed when
I stepped off the mat. I really liked how the
mat made standing at the sink to wash
dishes (one of my least favorite chores)
more comfortable.
I took the mat home, and
tested it out in my
kitchen, in front of
the stove and
then the
sink. It
ran the length of
my sink and stove
perfectly. The cinnamon color
was a little dark for my honeycolored oak wood cabinets and white
appliances, but the neutral color was
unobtrusive and ultimately, still a flattering
shade of brown. Other available colors
include expresso, mocha and black. The
cinnamon and black are my favorite colors,
ones that I think would blend easily into
most kitchens.
For anyone who stands in their kitchen
(or anywhere else in their house) for long
periods, and/or for anyone who suffers
from back or foot pain, we would
recommend investing in
the
Sublime
Anti-Fatigue
Comfort Mat. The
mat was much easier
on our feet, and the soft
cushioning provided better
support for standing.
I had never really considered adding a mat
to my kitchen before, and my body never
The Sublime Anti-Fatigue Mat is available
in two patterns, Nantucket and
Cobblestone. Nantucket is offered in four
colors and two sizes, and the Cobblestone
series is available in three sizes and three
colors. It can be found from retailers such
as Bed, Bath & Beyond, Amazon.com and
Grandin Road.
EVRIHOLDER’S ULTI-MITT
The Ulti-Mitt 3n1 Cleaning Mitt is a
washable and reusable cleaning mitt
that tackles multiple tasks with three
cleaning sides. The gray ultra-fine terry
microfiber cloth requires no additional
chemicals to effectively clean and
dust. The white cloth is made of
polyester and polyamide blend,
which is perfect for cleaning mirrors
and windows. The beige ultra-suede
material is an ideal cleaning cloth for
electronics such as TVs and stereos.
The Ulti-Mitt is designed to fit most
hand sizes and can be used by left or
right handers.
Suggested Retail Price: $4.99
Evriholder Products LLC
[tel] 800.975.0335
www.evriholder.com
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
9
{ n e w p ro d u c t s }
ZYLISS ALL-CITRUS JUICER
SUNBEAM TRASHRAC BASIC
Designed to give optimum juicing performance in a
compact tabletop format, the Zyliss Citrus Juicer offers
a fast, easy and efficient way to juice a wide range
of citrus fruit. Finished in an eye-catching natural
orange with light grey trim and cast alloy handle, it fits
perfectly with the Zyliss “Colors Inspired by Nature”
theme. The product features a detachable juicing
cup with integrated pouring spout and non-slip base.
All parts dismantle for easy cleaning and are
dishwasher safe.
Suggested Retail Price: $24.99
The new TrashRac Basic gives the consumer a choice
on whether they want to reuse their plastic shopping
bags or use one of the company’s perfect fit, leak-proof
bags. This new, improved design has traded plastic
parts for steel, not only reducing cost but also improving
both function and form. The removable plastic drip tray
is designed for use with plastic shopping bags or
doubles as a neat bag support when using company
bags. TrashRac Basic saves kitchen floor space by
mounting discreetly behind the cupboard door.
Prime Way Corp.
[tel] 905.732.5445
www.primewaycompanies.com
Zyliss
[tel] 888.794.7623
[email] info@zylissusa.com
www.zylissusa.com
GOBII DISH DRYER
This dish dryer from Better Houseware is a drying rack,
drain board and cutlery holder. The rack holds up to
11 dinner plates. Save space when the dryer’s not in
use by standing it upright. It also snaps apart for easy
cleaning. It is made out of high-density polypropylene
and is available in black, opaque, red and white.
Suggested Retail Price: $19.99
Better Houseware Corp.
[tel] 800.232.6867
www.betterhouseware.com
ROCKET MONKEY'S
KITSCH-EN ESSENTIALS
A bit of tongue-in-cheekery distinguishes this set of 36
paper placemats that feature photos of delicious,
yet ugly, food. With six styles to choose from, these
placemats let users pick the proper food photo for the
right meal occasion.
Suggested Retail Price: $18
Rocket Monkey
[tel] 651.235.6528
www.rocketmonkeystuff.com
OBH NORDICA SUPREME STEEL COLOR SET
The OBH Nordica Supreme Steel Color Cookware Set
features Scandinavian design along with practical
features. The cookware features a unique handle
design in silicone for easy pouring. Glass windows
on the lids and spouts with an integrated colander
system aid in ease of cooking, as does an interior
measurement scale. The cookware is safe for all kinds
of stoves, including induction. It is available in orange,
blue, green and black.
OBH Nordica
[tel] 913.825.2615
www.obhnordica.com
ABBIAMO TUTTO
CAPRI COLLECTION
Abbiamo tutto, an importer of Italian ceramic and
porcelain, introduces Capri, a line of tabletop and
serving pieces reflecting the Italian seaside. The pieces
are dishwasher and microwave safe, and some items
are also oven to table.
Suggested Retail Prices: $11–48
Abbiamo tutto
[tel] 703.790.0172
www.e-abbiamotutto.com
CORNINGWARE’S ETCH BAKEWARE
Available in fall, CorningWare’s Etch bakeware is an
artisan-inspired collection featuring ribbonlike
embossing woven around the base in white linen or
grass colors. Etch bakeware encompasses six items:
a 3-quart oblong casserole, a 9" open baker, a 2.5quart casserole with glass lid, 1.5-quart casserole
with glass lid, a 20-ounce square casserole and a
pair of 7-ounce ramekins. The entire collection offers
gently flared edges, easy-grip handles and highgloss interiors. The chip-and-crack resistant ceramic
can go from oven to table to freezer. The collection
will be sold in sets of four, seven or eight pieces.
Suggested Retail Price: $59.99-79.99 per set
World Kitchen LLC
[tel] 800.367.3526
[email] helpcenter@worldkitchen.com
www.worldkitchen.com
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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
www.kitchenwarenews.com
&
K ITCHENWARE
N
EWS
Housewares Review
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 16, NUMBER 8
AUGUST 2010
storage
solutions
www.kitchenwarenews.com
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
11
storage solutions
TRIBEST GLASTOR CONTAINERS
These glass storage containers from Tribest are
multi-functional products that bake, serve and store
food. The containers feature an airtight silicone
seal and snap locking lids. Glastor containers are
made of heavy-duty tempered glass that is
lightweight but still durable. The lids are BPA-free. The
containers are available in rectangular, square
and round in a variety of sizes.
Tribest Corp.
[tel] 888.254.7336
www.tribest.com
J.K. ADAMS WINE STORAGE RACK
These geometrically proportioned wine racks will fit into
virtually any space—and are infinitely expandable.
Each wine rack kit comes packed with enough extra
joining pins to allow you to add on more racks as your
wine collection grows. Precisely constructed of solid
hardwood, the pins seat so snugly into the octagonal
beams so no glue is needed for assembly. Each bottle
is securely cradled.
Suggested Retail Price: Six-bottle rack for $31;
12-bottle rack for $53; 40-bottle rack for $148
ORGANIZE-IT-ALL RECYCLING BIN
Recycling is easy with the three-compartment
recycling bin from Organize-It-All. This plastic bin makes
it easy to separate glass, plastic and paper into
multiple compartments. The bins are about 15 ¾" tall
and hold about 15 liters. A foot pedal is used to
open the lid, and the pedals are also conveniently
color-coded to make it easy to identify glass,
paper and plastic.
Suggested Retail Price: $79.99-129.99
J.K. Adams & Co.
[tel] 800.451.6118
www.jkadams.com
Organize-It-All
[tel] 201.931.0883
MEASURING SPOON CADDY
LIPPER INTERNATIONAL DRAWER ORGANIZER
Measuring spoons are easily accessible with this
stainless steel caddy from R.S.V.P. International’s
Endurance line. The compact design keeps R.S.V.P.’s
seven stainless steel measuring spoons upright and
ready for use. The caddy comes packaged with its
narrow spice spoon set plus an extra tablespoon for
added convenience. The spoon set includes two
tablespoons, 1 teaspoon, ¾ teaspoon, ½ teaspoon,
¼ teaspoon and 1⁄8 teaspoon.
Suggested Retail Price: $25
This eco-friendly drawer organizer divides open spaces
in drawers to create orderly compartments for tools
and gadgets, socks and ties. The organizer is perfect
for the kitchen, bedroom, garage or den. The springloaded organizers are easy to install and remove.
Suggested Retail Price: $19.99
Lipper International
[tel] 800.243.3129
www.lipperinternational.com
SNAPWARE FLIPTOP
JUMBO CEREAL CONTAINER
These fliptop containers from Snapware make it easy
to pour, scoop and snack on cereal. A double airtight
seal keeps food fresh, and a tapered handle makes
the container easier to grip and hold. The Jumbo
Cereal Container includes slim and medium fliptops
with extra-large openings. Fliptop containers are
available in a variety of sizes and are dishwasher safe,
freezer/fridge safe and microwave safe.
Snapware Corp.
[tel] 877.627.9273
www.snapware.com
R.S.V.P. International
[tel] 800.275.7787
www.rsvp-intl.com
LE CREUSET CANISTERS
Store flour, sugar, coffee and tea in these brightly
colored canisters from Le Creuset. An airtight silicone
seal preserves freshness. The canisters are available in
three sizes, 2½ quart, 4 quart and 5 quart. Choose from
blue, red, or teal.
Suggested Retail Price: $40 for 2½ quart;
$50 for 4 quart; $60 for 5 quart
Le Creuset
[tel] 877.273.8738
www.lecreuset.com
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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
www.kitchenwarenews.com
storage solutions
PRESERVE FOOD STORAGE SET
Shaped and colored like green apples, these food storage
containers have snap-on lids, are dishwasher safe and
BPA-free. The containers are made with 100 percent
recycled plastic, and stackable for easy storage in the
pantry or fridge. Each set contains two small round food
storage containers, two large round ones and a two-pack
of square storage containers.
Suggested Retail Price: $1.99-9.99
Preserve
[tel] 888.354.7296
www.preserveproducts.com
ORKA VEGETABLE KEEP SACKS
NAMBÉ TWIST SPICE RACK
This spice rack offers a nice twist to
a classic kitchen item. The rack is
made of Nambé alloy and acacia
wood and comes with 16 engraved
bottles containing basic spices. The
rack debuted to the U.S. market in
April 2010.
Suggested Retail Price: $200
Nambé
[tel] 800.443.0339
www.nambe.com
Preserve the life of vegetables by storing them in Orka’s
Vegetable Keep Sacks. This eco-friendly way of storing
vegetables keeps them fresher longer and can be hung on
a wall or rail for convenient access. The sacks are made of
natural cotton and linen and are machine washable. The
vegetable sacks are available in small for garlic and shallots;
medium for onions; and large for potatoes. A doubledrawstring design lets users drop vegetables in the top, and
then remove them as needed from the bottom.
Suggested Retail Price: $8-10
Orka by Mastrad
[tel] 800.358.0608
www.mastrad.us
ZAK MELLOW BOWLS
These mixing bowls do double duty
when you snap on the coordinating
lids. Dishwasher-, refrigerator-, freezer-,
and microwave-safe, the bowls are
ideal for storing leftovers, softening
butter and other ingredients or even
warming up a bowl of soup. Store them
easily and compactly by nesting them
into each other. The bowls are
lightweight with a non-skid bottom. They
are available in four sizes—3 quart, 2
quart, 1 quart and half-quart. Colors
are available in two patterns—blue and
white, or orchid and kiwi.
Suggested Retail Price:
$32.99 for eight-piece set
Zak Designs
[tel] 970.985.4605
www.zak.com
www.kitchenwarenews.com
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
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Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
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{ n e w p ro d u c t s }
KUHN RIKON FROSTING DECO PEN
OGGI INSULATED TUMBLER
The Frosting Deco Pen from Kuhn Rikon elevates frosting
to an art form, making it easy to decorate cupcakes, cakes
and other pastries. The versatile, battery-powered unit
works just like a pen for precise control. Simply fill one
of the cartridges with frosting and insert it into the
pen, then push down on the yellow lever to dispense
frosting. The pen has two speeds and comes with three
cartridges, so you can switch from one color to the next
with a quick change of cartridge. The Frosting Deco
Pen filler plates can be used with homemade or storebought frosting. To fill, pump frosting into the cartridge.
If desired, add food coloring and mix the color into the
frosting directly in the cartridge. Once filled, attach the
desired tip to the cartridge, snap the cartridge into the
pen and begin decorating. The Frosting Deco Pen
includes: Frosting Deco Pen, six decorating tips, three
frosting cartridges, three filler plates, one color mixer,
and instruction and recipe booklet.
Suggested Retail Price: $29.95
OGGI Corp.’s 16-ounce Double-wall
Insulated Tumbler is suited for both
indoor and outdoor use. The new
BPA-free acrylic tumbler
comes
with
convenient
screw-top
and
reusable
drinking straw in an eyecatching EZ-carry gift box.
Suggested Retail
Price: $7.95
OGGI Corp.
[tel] 714.449.0733
www.oggicorporation.com
BLUE DAHLIA APRON
Peking Handcraft’s Blue Dahlia Apron is made from
100 percent cotton and measures 24" x 33".
Suggested Retail Price: $15
Kuhn Rikon
[tel] 800.662.5882
www.kuhnrikon.com
Peking Handicraft Inc.
[tel] 800.872.6888
www.pkhc.com
THE ULTIMATE RAPID WHISK
HIC-Harold Import Co.’s Ultimate Rapid Whisk
incorporates more air with every stroke. The inner
double-helix stainless steel ball and outer silicone wires
whip up fluffier egg whites and whipped cream in half
the time of ordinary whisks. It features a soft,
comfortable grip and is dishwasher safe.
Suggested Retail Price: $7.99
HIC-Harold Import Co., Inc.
[tel] 800.526.2163
www.haroldimport.com
CASTEY’S VULCANO COLLECTION
Hand protectors aren’t necessary
anymore to handle cast aluminium
products because Castey has added
silicone handles to its Vulcano
Collection. Silicone works as an insulator
and prevents users from getting
burned. And, because it is extremely
temperature resistant, silicone can also
be used in the oven. Vulcano products
feature Durion, the new nonstick
coating by Castey that is PFOA-free.
Vulcano products are suitable for all
cooking surfaces, even induction. The
Vulcano Collection includes casseroles,
woks, frying pans, flat pans and grill
pans with handles, flat tray pans, crepe
pans and saucepans. Silicone handle
colors available are yellow, green,
maroon and black.
Castey Global S.L.
[tel] 34.972.47.77.52
www.castey.com
J.K. ADAMS’
WATER NOVELTY COLLECTION
THE SKOY CLOTH
Made in Europe, this economical
alternative to paper towels is 100 percent
biodegradable and made of all-natural
cotton and wood-based cellulose pulp.
Even its bright colorsare water-based and
the manufacturing process is chlorinefree. In an independent composting
test, Skoy broke down completely within
five weeks. The Skoy Cloth can be
The Water Novelty Collection from J.K.
Adams features five maple cutting
boards in water-related silhouettes: a
tugboat, turtle, clamshell, minnow and
whale. All the boards have slight
distressing to add antique character.
The boards are finished with a foodsafe antique stain and have retrocolored edges.
Suggested Retail Price: $31
J.K. Adams Co.
[tel] 800.451.6118
www.jkadams.com
laundered in the washing machine or
dishwasher to clean between uses. Skoy
dries quickly, keeping it free of bacteria,
and it is highly absorbent and can hold
15 times its own weight.
Suggested Retail Price: $6.99
SKOY Enterprises
[tel] 800.990.4757
www.skoycloth.com
TOASTESS CINEMA CORN POPPER
Toastess International’s Cinema Corn
Popper makes flavorful “cinema-style”
popcorn at home. It integrates a stirring
rod over a nonstick popping surface to
ensure perfect popping every time. A
built-in butter well butters popcorn as it
pops. The lid flips over and becomes
the perfect serving bowl. It is available
in red or yellow.
Suggested Retail Price: $59.99
Toastess International
[tel] 514.685.2820
www.toastess.com
www.kitchenwarenews.com
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
15
thermometers & scales
BUYERS’ GUIDE
OUTSET STEAK THERMOMETERS
PERFECT PORTIONS SCALE
The Perfect Portions Scale is a scale
and nutritional calculator in one. Using
the familiar “Nutrition Facts” label, it
clearly displays the nutritional content
(calories, fats, carbs, sugars and more)
of nearly 2,000 foods adjusted by
portion size. It breaks down the
information into percentage daily
value, tracks daily totals, and even
allows users to enter 99 of their own
foods. It has an easy-to-clean, glasstop surface and touchpad keys.
Suggested Retail Price: $59.99
Design Manufacture Distribution
[tel] 314.991.8494
www.perfectportionsscale.com
LEIFHEIT SOEHNLE
FLIP KITCHEN SCALE
RÖSLE MINI GRILL &
OVEN THERMOMETER SET
These thermometers take the
guesswork out of cooking meat. On
the grill, the thermometers monitor
the internal temperature of a steak
so a cook knows exactly when a
steak is done. This set includes four
thermometers so a cook can ensure
that everyone gets a steak cooked
just the way they like it. The thermometers are color coded to help the
grillmaster remember which steak is
for which guest. Because they are
dual functioning, they measure the
internal temperature of other meats
as well. Made of 18/10 stainless steel,
these thermometers are easy to read
and dishwasher safe.
Suggested Retail Price: $30–set of four
A versatile, value-priced kitchen
scale, the Leifheit Soehnle Flip Kitchen
Scale is powerful and attractive
enough to display, yet slim enough
to store in a kitchen drawer. It can
switch between liquid and dry
measurements and offers a smooth,
easy-to-clean
tempered
glass
surface. The scale measures 7.9" in
diameter by 0.6" deep. Features
include touch screen operation,
additive weighing function and gram
to ounce conversion. It has an 11pound capacity and runs on lithium
batteries, which are included. The
scale is black, white, silver and the
limited edition Mikado design.
Suggested Retail Price: $40
These handy steak thermometers
monitor
a
steak’s
internal
temperature so cooks know exactly
when to take it off the grill. This set
includes four thermometers so grillers
can precisely gauge the steaks’
doneness to ensure that everyone
The Pico is a 4.5" by 3.75" by 1" scale that
measures up to 11 pounds or 5
kilograms in 0.1 ounce or 1 gram
increments. This is an extra high
capacity usually limited to
larger scales. The Pico is a
multi-functional scale for
cooking, food portion
control, postage or hobby
use. Features include
tare, hold and counting
functions. It is available in
cherry red, royal blue,
mint green, silver gray and
midnight black.
Suggested Retail
Price: $24.95
Escali Scales
[tel] 800.467.6408
www.escali.com
HIC'S DIGITAL KITCHEN SCALE
Harold Import Co.’s digital kitchen
scale weighs all ingredients easily
and accurately, in precise
0.1 ounce increments up to
11 pounds, for cooking or
baking or dieting. Items can
be weighed directly on the
platform, or on a plate or
in a bowl. With the tare
function, containers will
not count in weight totals.
It also features auto or
manual shut-off.
Suggested Retail
Price: $29.99
Leifheit International USA
[tel] 866.695.3434
www.leifheitusa.com
HIC-Harold Import Co. Inc.
[tel] 800.526.2163
www.haroldimport.com
ADMETIOR SOLAR DIGITAL INSTANT
READ THERMOMETER
This solar-powered thermometer from
Parasia International turns on with
a shake and has a five-second
quick response time. It is water
resistant, and features a premium
grade stainless steel probe. It records
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
Outset
[tel] 888.696.8873
www.outsetinc.com
PICO HANDHELD MINI SCALE
Rösle
[tel] 302.326.4801
www.rosleusa.com
16
gets a steak cooked just the way
they like it. The thermometers are
dishwasher safe.
Suggested Retail Price: $15.99
temperatures on its LCD display
from -49º F to 392º F. Included is a
protective silicone cap.
Suggested Retail Price: $29.99
Parasia International Ltd.
[tel] 763.267.7900
www.parasia-international.com
www.kitchenwarenews.com
KITCHENAID DIGITAL
PROBE THERMOMETER
MAVERICK
PROFESSIONAL THERMOMETER
standard with calibration certificate.
Suggested Retail Price: $100
The Maverick PT-100 Professional
Thermometer is a durable thermometer
with folding probe that is also shock-,
water-, and dust-resistant. It comes
Maverick Industries Inc.
[tel] 732.417.9666
www.maverickhousewares.com
A new introduction into the KitchenAid
line, this thermometer instantly digitally
registers temperatures in either
Fahrenheit or Celsius, within seconds. It
includes a 4' silicone-encased wire and
metal probe that is perfect for both the
kitchen or outdoor grill. It features a
programmable temperature alert that
sounds an alarm when the food being
cooked reaches its proper internal
temperature. In addition, it functions as
both a count-up and countdown timer
for a variety of uses within the kitchen.
Suggested Retail Price: $29.99
KitchenAid/Lifetime Brands Inc.
[tel] 800.252.3390
www.lifetimebrands.com
PROACCURATE
QUICK-READ THERMOMETER
ELECTRONIC
COOKING THERMOMETER
The Electronic Cooking Thermometer
from Roscan ensures perfectly
cooked meats and poultry. A stainless
steel probe is inserted into meats
to
precisely
monitor
cooking
temperatures and count down
cooking times. Users can use preset
ranges from rare to well-done for beef,
pork, poultry and veal, or program
preferences. Temperatures range from
14ºF to 392ºF. The 4.75" thermometer
has a digital face covered with ABS
plastic, a white ABS plastic body and
stainless steel probe. The thermometer
is not dishwasher safe.
Suggested Retail Price: $19.99
This thermometer provides temperature
measurements in just six to eight
seconds in a wide range from -40º F to
450º F. It features a large digital readout,
easy-to-press buttons and a
durable design with a
stainless steel housing that
is waterproof and
shatterproof. A
temperature guide on
the sheath offers instant
guidance for a variety
of foods and liquids. The
5" stem, with a 2.5 mm
reduced tip, enables the
thermometer to be easily inserted
into food. It also features a handy
pocket clip to keep it close at hand.
Suggested Retail Price: $19.99
CDN (Component Design Northwest)
[tel] 800.338.5594
www.cdn-timeandtemp.com
Roscan Inc.
[tel] 514.335.4348
www.roscan.com
FRANCA KITCHEN SCALE
This practical kitchen scale comes with a
removable measuring beaker.The beaker
“clicks” onto the scale and is easy to lift off.
For easy viewing, a large display and
operating functions are located on top of
the scale’s red or black handle. Franca
allows the user to measure by weight and
by volume in the same vessel. It measures
dry and liquid ingredients in pounds, fluid
ounces, kilograms, grams and milliliters.
The frosted beaker is dishwasher safe.
Suggested Retail Price: $29.99
Frieling USA Inc.
[tel] 800.827.2582, ext. 210 or 212
www.frieling.com
DIGITAL THERMOMETER
WITH ADJUSTABLE HEAD
The newest digital thermometer from
Taylor combines many consumer
thermometer “wants” in one product. The
oversized 1" LCD readout displays the
temperature boldly and clearly. The head
of the thermometer pivots and adjusts
into multiple angles—no bending, twisting
or angling to read the temperature. The
head also has rubberized accents for
enhanced gripability. This handy
thermometer features a hold button to
lock the temperature—just insert into food
being cooked, press “hold” after a stable
reading, then pull the thermometer out of
the food. The temperature of the food is
held in the readout and the food doesn’t
www.kitchenwarenews.com
need to be removed from the oven. Other
features are an ultra thin thermometer
tip, handy pocket/storage sleeve and an
F/C conversion switch.
Suggested Retail Price: $14.99
Taylor Precision Products
[tel] 888.388.6152
www.taylorusa.com
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
17
BACK TO SCHOOL (cont. from page 1)
Hannon Group studies current and upcoming
fashion trends to influence their lunch tote
designs. “We try to base our selections on what
the market dictates,” said Welch. “We’re going
off what the experts are saying.” They recently
released a messenger bag-style tote, designed
with additional pockets to make it a useful bag
for a college student, and available in a pattern
that also appeals to male customers.
lunch, as many kids with squashed sandwiches
and crumbled crackers can attest. “Most of our
impulse items are geared toward problem
solutions or kids,” said Evriholder CEO Gary
Seehoff. Evriholder solves the squashed
sandwich and crumbled crackers problem with
some of its kid-friendly licensed products.
“People are looking for something that’s fun,”
said Phyllis Breneman, Manager for Kitchen
& Spice and other things nice. The store,
near the University of Florida in Gainesville,
does a back-to-school push each year by
bringing in thermoses, lunch totes and water
bottles. “A lot of
people are taking
lunch instead of
eating out, and
they like to have
attractive, unique
things,” she said.
Evriholder’s licensing line-up includes familiar
brand names such as Crayola and Pepperidge
Farm. Their Wonder Bread plastic container
is designed to help
sandwiches keep their
shape
and
form.
Crayola
thermals,
available in large and
small sizes, allow kids
to bring hot and cold
liquids, and the
thermals maintain
the temperature for
longer periods. A
Pepperidge Farm goldfish-shaped container
keeps crackers from breaking.
Reusable water
bottles, such as
aluminum bottles,
are popular with
their geometric
patterns and eye-catching designs. The store’s
manager has also noticed customers, mostly
college students and working adults, favoring
lunch totes with dividers so they can easily
carry multiple containers.
Licensing can play a big role in attracting a
child’s attention. Thermos’ line-up is about 80
percent licensed product, said Jessica Jabcon,
Marketing Manager. “A lot of times, kids do
drive sales. It’s important to have the right
license assortment,” she added. Thermos will
launch its Funtainers for 2010 with new movie
licenses, “Shrek Forever After,” “Toy Story 3”
and “Iron Man 2” as well as updates of its
evergreen properties such as Barbie and Batman.
Taking food on the go, especially if carelessly
tossed into a backpack with other assorted
items, can affect the quality of a snack or
Safety is always on the tip of every parent’s
tongue, and this year, makers such as Thermos
and Aladdin are pushing the health safety
features of lunch containers. Thermos is making
the results of its product safety tests available
on its website for parents to download. All of
its products meet product safety standards.
When kids are bringing lunch to school, they
need a compact carrier and a container that
will help keep food fresh
and at the appropriate
temperature. Aladdin’s
new
Chill
Lunch
Collection features a kidfriendly design that makes it
easy for small hands to
grab and open, and the
containers’ bright
colors add to their
appeal. “The Chill
Lunch
Collection
affords both kids and
parents the ability to enjoy
a greater variety of foods which is in line with
today’s more diverse food pallets,” said Joanne
Anderson, Senior Marketing Manager with
Aladdin. “These items also all feature
removable ice pods so that parents can feel
secure knowing their kids’ lunches remain
fresh until lunch.”
Kids are toting along more than just lunches
to school these days. They’re also carrying
electronics and gadgets with them—cell
phones, mp3 players and laptops. These
valuable electronics also need to be protected,
and parents and their kids can choose from a
variety of cases, sleeves and covers in numerous
patterns, colors and styles.
Built NY manufactures neoprene sleeves, cases
and totes for laptops, netbooks, lunches and
water bottles. These cases and totes emphasize
the need for fashion and function in a backto-school product. “The thing that’s common
to our Built products is protection,” said John
Roscoe Swartz, CEO and Co-Founder of
Built NY. “The insulating quality of neoprene
protects food from heat. Neoprene protects
laptops from shocks, from bangs and bumps.”
Built NY strives to offer products that are
designed as well as they are constructed. A
parent wants something that’s cool so their kid
will actually carry it, said Swartz. To
accomplish that goal, the company focuses on
offering bags that represent the latest trends
in color and pattern. He expects the popularity
of jewel tones, such as emerald green, sapphire
and ruby, to continue. They are also seeing a
positive response to their two new patterns,
Scatter Dot, a polka dot pattern, and City
Grid, a black-and-white weave print.
Target Communications Spokesperson Tara
Schlosser also commented on the trend toward
bright colors and bold patterns. From bedding
to storage bins, students and their parents are
purchasing items in colors such as teal, purple,
yellow and in floral, dotted and striped patterns.
Target aims to fill everyone’s back-to-school
needs, but “with a touch of fun,” said Schlosser.
Organizing the home or the dorm room
becomes just as necessary when the new
school year arrives. Evriholder offers
organizational items, especially suitable for
college students living in cramped dorm
rooms. Cord organization items—Cable
Zipper and Cord Clipster—helps wired
students keep cables and cords from
computers, stereos and chargers, under
control. To increase storage space, the
Evriholder line-up includes the Round A
Belt, to store belts, scarves and more, and the
Evribox & More, a flexible storage container
to easily organize items such as bras or socks.
The back-to-school season represents a strong
selling period for products such as lunch totes,
food containers and organizational items, but
these products can be promoted and marketed
throughout the year.
Anderson said Aladdin sees increased demand
for its products at the start of the new year as
consumers are looking for cost-effective, healthy
solutions to help them start the new year off on
the right foot. Earth Day is also a successful
promotional period for Aladdin because of
consumers’ increased interest in environmentally
friendly and responsible products. The Aladdin
Sustain lunch set, for example, is made from 100
percent recycled plastic.
18
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
www.kitchenwarenews.com
{ n e w p ro d u c t s }
SACHI™ INSULATED TOTES
Each Sachi™ Insulated Lunch Tote is
designer quality and with the line’s
expansion, now available in nearly 45
different styles and patterns. The totes
can double as a handbag. Each bag
features a large, fully lined and
insulated compartment that can easily
transport a lunch, dinner or snack and
keeps it at the correct cold or hot
temperature for hours.
The eco-friendly bags are intended to
replace plastic bags and pay for
themselves after only a few weeks of
use. Each bag wipes clean inside and
out with a damp cloth, and features a
full-length zipper and handles that fold
down to conveniently fit into any
refrigerator. Each lunch tote can
comfortably hold a complete meal.
New this year is the Beach Tote
combination—a fashionable insulated
bag inside a large clear beach tote.
They can be carried as a set or
separately when extra space is needed.
Introducing three color combinations,
these are sure to be a hit.
Sachi™ colors and styles available
include different fabrics for all seasons.
Suggested Retail Price: $14.99–24.99
BLUE CORNISHWARE
variety of sizes for all purposes.
Accessories range from oil and
vinegar cruets to utensil holders to
canisters. Classic pieces include salad
and mixing bowls, honey pots, sugar
bowls, dreadnought jugs and butter
crocks as well as a lidded salt pot for
the counter or wall.
Pillivuyt USA is distributing a new old
line from TG Green—Cornishware Blue.
This charming and well-known line of
dinnerware, serveware and countertop accessories has been sold in the
United Kingdom and Europe since the
1930s. After a brief shutdown period,
new ownership enabled the company
to revive its most popular items in the
form of the distinctively striped ware.
Plates, cups and mugs come in a
The Hannon Group/TODCO
[tel] 262.537.2191
www.hannongroup.com
Pillivuyt USA
[tel] 866.938.1672
www.pillivuytus.com
LIFETIME BRANDS’
ODOR-ABSORBING SPLATTER SCREEN
A carbon filter sandwiched between two
metal mesh screens allows the OdorAbsorbing Splatter Screen to both
contain splatters on the stovetop while
also trapping odors inside the pan. The
splatter screen allows steam to escape,
but absorbs cooking smells from fish,
onions, garlic and bacon. The dishwashersafe screen features a comfortable
handle. It is available in an 11" version and
a 13" style with a folding handle. The
screens will be marketed under the
Farberware, Pedrini and DFL brands.
Suggested Retail Price:
$9.99 for 11"; $14.99 for 13"
Lifetime Brands
[tel] 800.252.3390
www.lifetimebrands.com
www.kitchenwarenews.com
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
19
NYIGF 2010
NYIGF (cont. from p. 1)
With a lower attrition rate among existing
exhibitors, and with more people wanting to
join the show, it made sense to return to the
New York’s Newest format, which showcases
new companies to the market, she said. “It
gives them an opportunity to shine,”
explained Belshaw, “and enables them to
stand out and be able to spend more time
with buyers.”
Tabletop and gourmet companies are wellrepresented in the NYN section, she said,
with 14 companies showing off products such
as cupcake molds, eco-friendly cutting boards,
gadgets, wooden spoons, acrylic barware,
hand-painted dinnerware, water bottles,
aprons and bags.
Another significant section that has gotten
some attention is the handmade area, which
was reorganized into Handmade Designer
Maker and Handmade Global Design.
“For many years, handcrafted was for museum
and high-end stores,” said Belshaw. But
recently, with more attention put on
handmade goods, it has become accessible to
more retailers.
“Especially with this economy,” she said,
“people want something with a back story,
something that is beautiful and meaningful.”
Belshaw added that the handmade divisions
of the show have already sold out.
With the emphasis in all areas of
manufacturing on eco-friendly, “green”
products, Belshaw said it isn’t surprising that
the sustainable products category at the
NYIGF continues to grow.
The make up of the companies ranges from
those that are wholly devoted to a green
message to those that have just a few products
that fall into the sustainable category. Belshaw
likened what is happening at the store level
with eco-friendly products to what has
happened on the handcrafted side, with some
stores edging into it slowly and others
embracing it and making it a major theme.
Companies that want to promote their
products at the show under the sustainable
DANCING HUMPTY-DUMPTY
SALT & PEPPER SHAKERS
banner need to meet certain criteria to do so,
said Belshaw. A task force was created to
draw up the guidelines that are used to vet
products. This not only helps exhibitors
understand what the rules are, but also gives
retailers a means to judge how products fit
with their needs.
Belshaw said the green category should
continue to grow, which may mean that the
NYIGF creates a separate division down the
road. “We need to be agile,” she explained.
Within the tabletop and housewares division,
Belshaw said the Accent on Tabletop area is
being expanded, and artisanal tabletop
continues to trend upward. Tabletop and
housewares has benefited by the return of
larger brands to the fair, she said, as well as
an extended presence by others. Housewares
continues to grow as well and will get an
added boost with the addition of the Gourmet
Housewares Show to the fair next year.
Of course, to reach all the exhibitors and
attendees, NYIGF is employing many of the
social marketing tools that have come onto
the scene. “We’re able to get information out
to the buyers more easily,” she said, especially
using real-time methods such as Twitter and
Facebook. By monitoring responses during
the show, the organizers can identify hot
spots and address immediate needs, she said.
While websites and email can foster
communication and provide information
between market events, Belshaw said there is
still a real need to see products firsthand at
the fair, as well as to develop relationships
face-to-face.
For retailers who want to keep in touch and
share ideas, GLM created retailerforum.biz,
said Belshaw. The online community has
1,000 retailers signed up, she noted.
In addition to visiting the show floor,
attendees also have nearly 20 instructional
sessions they can attend on topics ranging
from social media to color trends to retailing
strategies. There are also awards to be handed
out, including the first-time People’s Choice
and Designer Distinction Awards as well as
the long-standing Retailer Excellence Awards.
FLYING SAUCER BOWL
The iconic flying saucer shape lands on
the tabletop in this multi-functional
two-piece bowl set. It can
be used as a covered
bowl, or rest the top on its
antennae feet as a second bowl.
Aluminum bowl and top with flying
saucer base in nickel-plated steel.
Closed, the set measures 15.5"
wide by 9" high.
Suggested Retail Price: $300
Natico Originals’ Dancing HumptyDumpty Salt & Pepper Shakers are
made of stainless steel and are
designed to add a little life to any
table setting.
Suggested Retail Price: $30
Natico Originals Inc.
[tel] 800.628.4261
www.natico.com
Museum of Robots
[tel] 415.721.0525
www.museumofrobots.com
FOUR CATS WALL CLOCK
Ashton Sutton’s Four Cats Wall Clock is
laser cut from a black matte metal case
and features a quartz movement. The
clock measures 15.5" wide by 15.5" high.
Suggested Retail Price: $55
Ashton Sutton
[tel] 413.743.1260
www.ashtonsutton.com
ROASTED GARLIC EXPRESS
TODCO’s patented Roasted Garlic
Express cooks perfect cloves of garlic
in 27 minutes, cutting preparation
time at least in half. Available in four
different models, the countertop
kitchen appliances feature an easyto-use, easy-to-clean removable
nonstick tray and an automatic shutoff. The top-of-the-line stainless steel
model comes with an adjustable
timer. The unit can also be used to
cook a variety of other foods
including cakes, cookies, eggs,
hamburgers, hot dogs, French toast
and pancakes.
Suggested Retail Prices: $34.99-59.99
TODCO
a division of Hannon Group Ltd.
[tel] 262.537.2191
www.hannongroup.com
20
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
TOTEM BOWLS
The newest addition to the Totem Series,
Totem Bowls pay homage to the sculpting
of totem poles by the First Nation tribes of
the Pacific Northwest. The bowls are
made of high-gloss white ceramic and
have a stacked height of 11.5". The bowls
are dishwasher and microwave safe.
imm Living
[tel] 647.350.2038
www.imm-living.com
ESPRESSO DRINK CUPS
notNeutral, in conjunction with
Intelligentsia Coffee and Tea and its
world-class baristas, has developed
a line of espresso cups. Sizes available
include espresso, single cappuccino,
double cappuccino, small latté,
large latté and a drip coffee mug
and creamer.
notNeutral
[tel] 800.270.6511
www.notneutral.com
www.kitchenwarenews.com
NYIGF 2010
VIVO RECTANGULAR SMALL TRAY
The
rectangular
stainless
steel
hammered tray features a shagreen
overlay and leather trim. It is available
in 19 colors.
Suggested Retail Price: $240-270
Vivo/Manop Rachote
[tel] 415.472.1420
www.vivo-studios.com
WINE POURER SET
Normann Copenhagen’s Wine & Bar
series designed by Aurelien Barbry
features wine-related products made
from cork, including the reusable
stopper and pourer set.
Suggested Retail Price: $29
THE PIGGY STORY GIFT SET
Part dinnerware set, part story time, this
tabletop gift set depicts parts of the
original Piggy Story tale. The ceramic
dinnerware set—plate, bowl and
mug—is microwave and dishwasher
safe and comes with a matching fork
and spoon utensil set, machine-
Normann Copenhagen
[tel] 45.35.55.44.59
www.normann-copenhagen.com
BEE'S BUTT HONEY DIPPER
These pieces are permanently frosted
and painted, with real zipper pulls
attached. Hand decorated in the
United States from original designs,
they are available in gold or silver.
Suggested Retail Price:
$25.95–martini glass; $50.95–pitcher
Biodidactic Designs’ Bee’s Butt Honey
Dipper takes its inspiration from the
bee herself. Created by industrial
designer and beekeeper Andie
Olive, the dipper is made from
turned maple.
Suggested Retail Price: $14.99
Asta Glass
[tel] 415.467.1935
www.astaglass.com
Biodidactic Designs
[tel] 347.756.4242
http://biodidactic.com
BIN RECYCLING CONTAINER
SIL-PIN JR. ROLLING PIN
Bin, with its friendly form and bold colors,
is the ultimate accessory for collecting
organic scraps bound for composting.
Bin is made of silicone and kept in the
freezer to prevent scraps from
decomposing. The flexibility of the
silicone when frozen guarantees easy
emptying, while subtle design details
enhance usability. Countering its
sensible form are robust curves and
oversized fingerprints that guide the
emptying process. Bin’s streamlined
form at 11" by 6" by 6" allows for an easy
fit in the average freezer. The Bin is
available in blue, red, green or black.
Suggested Retail Price: $45
Fiesta Products’ Sil-Pin Jr. is a lightweight,
silicone rolling pin that functions just like
its full-size version, but for smaller hands.
The 4" by 1.75" barrel is ideal for kid-size
projects such as rolling cookie dough or
clay. The pin weighs just 5 ounces and
is available in red, pink, bright red,
creamy yellow, cherry, lime, apricot,
blueberry and eggplant.
Fiesta Products
[tel] 732.396.9759
www.fiestaproducts.com
RICHARD AND CHARLES MILLS
Prouna USA’s Leto Collection includes a
full range bone china tea set, including
a cocoa pot, tea cup and saucer,
coffee mug, espresso cup and saucer,
tray, sugar bowl and creamer. The
cocoa pot in rich gold and deep brown
features a sculptural deer motif on the
golden lid.
Suggested Retail Price: $460
Prouna USA
[tel] 877.816.7676
www.prounausa.com
William Bounds Ltd.
[tel] 800.473.0504
www.wmboundsltd.com
Fuccillo Design
[tel] 604.377.5358
www.fuccillodesign.com
www.kitchenwarenews.com
The Piggy Story Inc.
[tel] 818.908.8838
www.thepiggystory.com
XYZ MARTINI GLASS AND PITCHER
Available from William Bounds Ltd., the
Richard and Charles Mills are crafted
using American black walnut. Known
for its strength, hardness and distinctive
grain pattern, American black walnut
gives the classic mill shape a
distinguished look as well as durability.
Perfect for use with peppercorns or sea
salt, these mills feature the exclusive
William Bounds stainless/ceramic milling
mechanism that consistently crushes
sea salt and peppercorns. The
mechanism has no interlocking metal
parts, making the mill more durable
because it will never jam or wear out.
The Charles Mill measures 8" tall, while
the Richard comes in at 12".
Suggested Retail Price:
$29.99 for 8"; $39.99 for 12"
LETO COCOA POT
washable placemat and gift storage
tin. Also included is a mini-storybook
with an original Piggy Story tale.
Suggested Retail Price: $36–40
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
21
{ news in brief }
7 W New York, a wholesale mart building
catering to buyers of home décor, tabletop,
giftware, textiles, decorative accessories and
fine art in New York, announced that Toni
Toreno has been appointed as the building’s
new Director of Trade Show Sales. In this
role, Toreno will be responsible for all trade
show activity on the 11th floor. This
includes 7 W-produced events, as well as
the many external shows that regularly
choose 7 W as their New York venue.
Toreno joined the 7 W team four and a
half years ago as marketing coordinator,
then was promoted to marketing manager.
Chris Collins, Vice President and
General Manager of 7 W New York, said
in a prepared statement: “Toni Toreno has
excelled in her marketing role here at 7 W
for almost five years. This coupled with
her previous event planning and production
experience makes a natural fit for the
position of Director of Trade Show Sales
for our 11th floor venue. This is a very
important business for us and is driving
tremendous growth for the building.”
Tailor Made Products and Curious Chef,
based in Oconomowoc, Wis., have hired
Tamara Hauck as the organization’s
Director of Marketing and Sales. In this
role Hauck will oversee all marketing and
sales functions for Tailor Made Products
Inc.’s proprietary lines, including Curious
Chef, the first complete cooking line
created for children. Hauck brings a
strong background in sales, marketing,
management and consulting, and her
tenure with the Lang Holdings Co., BRIO
Corp. and The Pleasant Co. (American
Girl) provided her an understanding of
the gift and toy markets. “We are delighted
to welcome Tamara to our team,” said John
Wilde, CEO of Tailor Made and Curious
Chef in a prepared statement. “Her diverse
background in a variety of consumer
products segments is a great benefit to
both of our product lines. Additionally,
we look forward to the solid leadership
experience she brings to our organization.”
Snapware, a leader in the food storage and
organization industry based in Mira Loma,
Calif., has appointed Carla Hunter as its
Director of Marketing. Hunter brings solid
experience in the food and housewares
industries to the company, having previously
served in various marketing capacities at Con
Agra, Zyliss USA (now DKB Brands) and
Mastrad Inc. In her new role at Snapware,
Hunter will direct all branding strategy
initiatives for the company’s product lines,
which include Airtight containers and the
Glasslock series that feature easy-open and
close lids with an airtight gasket seal to ensure
that food items remain fresher, longer, and
Snap ‘N Stack containers, designed with a
patented, inter-locking stacking system that
allows consumers to access any layer without
disturbing items above or below. Other core
collections include Smart Store, which offers
consumers a fast solution for organizing
bathroom and linen closets, offices and other
spaces in the home. Hunter joins Snapware
as the company is making strides in new
branding programs, product development
and online marketing activities. The company
recently launched a new website with a “Join
the Snapware Family” section that fosters a
sense of community and shared experiences.
Swiss Diamond, a cookware manufacturer
with U.S. offices in Parsippany, N.J., was
selected as the winner from more than 200
companies competing for the Swiss
Economic Award. The award was presented
to Amir Alon, CEO and Owner of Swiss
Diamond, on June 4 at a gathering of 1,200
high-ranking representatives from industry,
politics and science. The Swiss Economic
Award has become the most significant and
prestigious recognition of entrepreneurial
businesses in Switzerland that have
distinguished themselves in innovation,
product development and technology.
Full Circle, a supplier of sustainable cleaning
tools for the home based in Port Chester,
N.Y., has been approved by Green America
for entry into the Green Business Network.
Full Circle products will bear the logo stating
the company is “Approved for People and the
Planet.” As part of the Green America
approval process, Full Circle must detail the
materials used in the products, the production
processes, environmental and social standards
in its factories and its level of disclosure to
the consumer. Full Circle audits its factories
according to fair labor practices, health and
safety, compensation and work hours,
environmental conditions including air and
water, as well as waste disposal.
A new beginning for Waterford Crystal was
marked with the official opening of the
House of Waterford Crystal on the Mall in
the heart of Waterford City in Ireland.
Comprising a state-of-the-art manufacturing
facility, visitor center and retail experience
store, the opening ensures that the history of
more than 600 years of heritage, tradition and
craftsmanship remains firmly rooted in
Waterford. This milestone event is the result
of an agreement between WWRD Holdings
Limited, the leading luxury goods group
which owns and operates the Waterford
Crystal, Wedgwood and Royal Doulton
brands, and Waterford City Council. The
manufacturing facility contains a new
continuous melt tank furnace that has been
tailor-made for Waterford Crystal’s
specifications, and will produce two tons of
molten crystal each day. It uses leading-edge
technology to deliver molten crystal of the
highest quality for skilled master blowers to
hand-shape and hand-blow Waterford
Crystal’s range of premium products. All
aspects of the manufacturing process will be
fully accessible to visitors, who will learn
about both historical and contemporary
production techniques through direct
interaction with the craftsmen and from
audiovisual materials. In addition, the on-site
retail center will represent the largest display
of Waterford Crystal anywhere in the world.
ADVERTISER INDEX
Dry-Spice ........................................................... 14
Essenergy............................................................... 6
Fissler USA......................................................... 24
Frieling USA Inc. ................................................ 4
fusionbrands......................................................... 8
Lamson & Goodnow ........................................ 9
Linden Sweden.................................................. 14
Parasia International LTD ............................. 17
Parrish’s Cake Dec. ........................................... 23
Planetary Design .............................................. 22
Prodyne ................................................................. 9
R.S.V.P. International....................................... 19
SCI Scandicrafts.................................................. 7
Sublime ................................................................ 7
Taylor Precision Products .............................. 18
Tervis Tumbler Company ................................. 5
Todco LLC/Hannon Group.......................... 14
Tribest ................................................................. 13
YouCopia Products Inc ..................................... 2
22
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
www.kitchenwarenews.com
{ t ra d e s h o w b u z z }
Trade Show Buzz 2010 TRADE SHOW CALENDAR
by Megan Wadding
The 40th annual Heimtextil show in
Frankfurt, Germany, took place in
Frankfurt am Main earlier this year. The
show saw 72,000 visitors from more than
120 countries—a 6 percent increase in
international attendance.
Heimtextil 2010 presented the latest
products and trends of 2,521 exhibitors
from 60 countries. This year, 65 percent
of visitors came from outside of
Germany. Of the exhibitors, 2,140 were
foreign companies.
“Last year, NYIGF was ahead of the curve
by allowing buyers pre-show access to
extensive online product catalogs and
vendor information,” said Dorothy
Belshaw, NYIGF Director and GLM
Senior Vice President, in a prepared
statement. “These new improvements,
added functionality and the addition
of a mobile app will exponentially
improve our exhibitor and product
search and will enable retailers to orient
themselves and adapt quickly and easily
to ongoing floor-plan changes.”
AUGUST 2010
14-19 New York International Gift Fair
Jacob Javits Convention Center
New York, NY, 800.272.7469
www.nyigf.com
27-31 Tendence Lifestyle
Frankfurt Fair & Exhibition Center
Frankfurt, Germany, 770.984.8016
www.messefrankfurt.com
SEPTEMBER 2010
11-13 Atlanta Fall Gift & Home Furnishings
Market and The Atlanta Gourmet Market®
AmericasMart Atlanta
Atlanta, GA, 800.ATL.MART
www.americasmart.com
11-13 Dallas Total Home & Gift Market
Dallas Market Center
Dallas, TX, 800.DAL.MKTS
www.dallasmarketcenter.com
26-28 Fall L.A. Mart Market
LA Mart
Los Angeles, CA, 800.LAMART4
www.lamart.com
OCTOBER 2010
12-15 New York Tabletop Market
New York Showrooms, 41 Madison
7 West 34th, 230 Fifth Ave.
New York, NY, 212.686.1203,
212.279.6063 800.698.5617
www.41madison.com, www.7wnewyork.com
www.230fifthave.com
In a prepared statement, Detlef Braun,
Member of the Board of Management of
Messe Frankfurt—the company in
charge of organizing Heimtextil—said,
“This year’s Heimtextil was a complete
success. Despite the difficult situation in
the textile industry and the retail
market, the fair was not only distinguished
by a stable number of exhibitors but
also by an increase in the number of
visitors. The mood among participants was
highly optimistic.”
In accordance with its sustainability
theme, Heimtextil is launching the
Green Directory at Heimtextil 2011,
Jan. 12-15. The guide will enable buyers
to find sustainable products and
exhibitors with sustainable manufacturing
processes quickly.
The New York International Gift Fair
(NYIGF), which is taking place Aug. 1419 in the Jacob K. Javits Convention
Center, Pier 92 & Pier 94, is debuting
new tools before and at the show to
improve the experience of attendees.
New online tools, such as an improved
exhibitor search function complete with a
walking list and map download function,
are available to help attendees plan for the
show. On-site information kiosks and a
team of “greeters” will assist attendees in
navigating the fair. These new and
improved methods resulted from the
introduction of new product divisions at
the fair, reorganization of existing
divisions and construction within the
Javits Center.
As of June 11, the site search.nyigf.com has
been allowing attendees to locate vendors
and find and sort them by keyword,
company name, division, category and
venue. The site was developed by
Whereoware, and allows for searches to
be filtered, saved and then printed with an
accompanying floor plan of the fair.
Beginning Aug. 1, attendees with
smartphones are now able to use a new
mobile application that allows users to
access the exhibitor search function, or
browse the nyigf.com website, which has
been adapted for mobile use.
www.kitchenwarenews.com
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • AUGUST 2010
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