March 2010 - Oser Communications Group

Transcription

MARKET WATCH:
BUYERS’ GUIDE:
SPECIAL FEATURE:
OUTDOOR LIVING
BARBECUE ACCESSORIES
ETHNIC COOKWARE
SEE PAGE 1
SEE PAGE 8
SEE PAGE 11
SH IH
OW +H
ISS S
UE
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 3
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
MARCH 2010
The Trends that
Shape our Products
by Joanne Friedrick
Successful products, both for manufacturers and
retailers, are most often the result of careful
planning and research. While some great ideas are
just that—ideas that spring forth from a creative
mind—many others are crafted by looking at and
adhering to the trends all around us.
Everything from how a product looks and
functions to its physical properties to its color,
are likely influenced by what is happening in the
larger arena of everyday life.
Kevin Young, part of the industrial design team
at Continuum, a Boston-based design
consultancy, shared his insights into what key
trends are shaping the housewares industry today.
While most people, and Americans in particular,
think about unlimited space within their homes
and surroundings, the truth is that by 2030,
said Young, 60 percent of all people will be
living in urban areas, and space considerations
will be key factors in how products are crafted.
Continued on Page 36
Outdoor Entertaining
Made Easy with
Reusable Products
by Carrie Bui
These days, consumers are simplifying their lives and
looking for products to ease the stress and enhance
the experience of casual outdoor entertaining.
Most suppliers define outdoor living as the way in
which people entertain outdoors, whether it be an
apartment balcony, a lakeside picnic or a backyard
barbecue. Outdoor living products are designed to
complement these entertaining needs.
“Whether it’s patios, or screened-in porches, or
simply the backyard or the balcony of their
apartment, people are looking for ways to spend
more time outside, and they are seeking out
products that will make that time more rewarding,”
said Irv Zakheim, president and CEO of Zak
Designs. “From tableware for intimate dinners to
serveware for large parties, people look for products
that are durable enough to use outside but stylish
enough to suit their eclectic tastes.”
Continued on Page 38
w w w . k i t c h e n w a r e n e w s . c o m
march 2010
contents
6
45
46
46
46
NEWS ON SIX
TRADE SHOW BUZZ
GUEST COLUMN
CALENDAR
AD INDEX
{ shorts }
Martha Stewart Magazine Teams Provide Lobby Settings
“We are delighted to have the talented teams
from three Martha Stewart magazines kick
off the Spring Market lobby settings,”
announced Laurie Burns, senior vice
president, director of Forty One Madison, in
a prepared release. “Expectations for the April
Market appear to be upbeat as the economic
climate begins to stabilize. We have already
noted an uptick in pre-registrations through
our own website with buyers making plans
to travel to New York for the Tabletop Show.”
Martha Stewart has an abundance of
entertaining ideas to turn any occasion into
a celebration, which will be the theme of the
settings in collaboration with Martha Stewart
Weddings, Martha Stewart Living and
Everyday Food magazines. Martha and her
team will transform the lobby of Forty One
Madison with creative ideas and tablescapes
to celebrate a range of special events including
Every Day, Special Occasions, Showers and
Your Big Day. Displays will incorporate a
range of products and accessories from Forty
One Madison showrooms with a variety of
Martha Stewart designs, including her home
furnishings lines. Settings will be on view
from Tuesday, April 13 to Friday, April 16.
Bridal Guide/bridalguide.com’s Level A Café
will be themed Greek Delights where marketgoers can expect to find a selection of typical
Greek savories. The Café will run for three
days offering breakfast treats and light lunch
Tuesday and Wednesday, April 13 and 14,
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and breakfast only on
Thursday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Forty One Madison, a Rudin Building, is at
Madison and 26th Street. Twenty-three floors
of permanent showrooms are filled with top
brands in tableware, gifts, decorative
accessories and high-end housewares.
THE HOMER LAUGHLIN CHINA CO.
Fiesta Dinnerware
[tel] 800-452-4462
www.homerlaughlin.com
Casabella Inks License Agreement With Milli Home
Casabella Holdings LLC, a leading designer,
marketer and distributor of cleaning tools,
kitchen and bath accessories and organizing
products, has signed a license agreement with
Milli Home, an eco-friendly company that
makes liquid cleaning products in Denmark.
“We have been interested in entering the
eco-friendly cleaning category for some time,”
said Rob Moser, president of Casabella, in a
prepared statement. “The licensing of the
Casabella brand to Milli Home, combined
with their ability to develop and market truly
wonderful products seemed like a logical way
to participate in this product category. We
believe the licensing of the Casabella brand
name, with its brand equity in the cleaning
category, will enable Milli Home to enter
the U.S. market in a very meaningful way.”
Pavan Uttam, executive vice president of Milli
Home, said in a prepared statement: “This new
Eco Clean brand of cleaning products are fully
biodegradable and safe to use around children
and pets and bottled in recyclable PET bottles.
What we are trying to do is offer a high-quality
luxury product for a reasonable price.”
The line is made from natural ingredients and
essential oils, and is free from phosphates,
ON THE COVER
bleach, ammonia and petro chemicals. Uttam
said the cleaning effectiveness “is enhanced by
a special formula called the AEB (Active Eco
Boost)—a natural amino acid derivative which
solubilizes dirt and keeps it suspended in the
solution, enhancing the cleaning properties.”
The line of cleaning solutions includes Apple
and Thyme Dish Soap, Orange & Rosemary
Kitchen Cleaner, Spicy Lavender All Purpose
Cleaner, Lavender & Mint Bath Cleaner,
Cool Mint Toilet Bowl Cleaner and White
Tea & Sage Glass Cleaner. A hand wash is
also available in Grapefruit & Lime, Lavender
and Wild Fruits.
future
features
APRIL
Retro Products in the Kitchen
Back to Basics
Spring Bridal/Gift Update
NY Tabletop Show
Barware Buyers’ Guide
MAY
Small Electrics
Best New Designs in Kitchenware
Major Appliance
Kitchen Clock Buyers’ Guide
JUNE
Cookware Update—Induction Cooking
Licensed Products
Nostalgia Products
Pepper Mill Buyers’ Guide
www.kitchenwarenews.com
Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • MARCH 2010
3
publisher’s
note
Recently I’ve noticed a marketing trend tying the fictitious families
featured in some major network TV programs to ad campaigns for
the value of family meals, and I was struck by how fragmented our culture has become
that we have to market our way back to sitting around a dining room table to share a meal.
As more national and international companies jump on this advertising bandwagon, this
potentially giant trend will have a great impact on our industry as we move away from
the “grab and go” concept of family dining and turn our attention to the dining table,
healthy dietary choices and all the tools and accessories that go along with making meal
time more inviting and engaging.
&
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 Taylor
karen_t@oser.com
[tel] (323) 397-9507
MANAGING EDITOR
Joanne Friedrick
joanne_f@oser.com
[tel] (207) 780-8656
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
Carrie Bui
carrie_b@oser.com
JoEllen Lowry
This all ties in with the “back to basics” concept that surviving a down economy makes
us examine. Certainly, this re-adjustment has made us evaluate how we spend our dollars
and eating at home is more compelling than ever. Consumers will need to re-examine
their kitchens in light of this trend, which also ties to more wholesome and healthy dining.
Here’s hoping that as this trend grows, so will sales of kitchenware and tabletop products.
joellen_l@oser.com
Ellen Ranta
ellen_r@oser.com
This month’s guest column on ethnic cooking underscores these trends of preparing
meals at home as a good choice for saving money in a challenging economy and a great
way to reconnect with the family over the kitchen table. With the accessibility of recipes
online, on TV and through cookbooks, people are encouraged to try new things. Authentic
Latin cuisine is an interesting way for families to experiment with new ingredients and
seasonings to “spice up” their dining experience.
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
So as we move into this new decade, we can look to these trends to lead us to optimism
and growth in our industry as consumers have a revitalized appreciation of the value of
family meals and the value of dining at home.
See you in Chicago!
SUBSCRIBER SERVICES
Valerie Wilson
ads@oser.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Yasmine Brown
art@oser.com
1877 N. Kolb Road
Tucson, Arizona 85715
[tel] (520) 721-1300
[fax] (520) 721-6300
KITCHENWARE/HOUSEWARES ADVERTISING
Karen Taylor, Publisher
karen_t@oser.com
SENIOR
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
editor’s
note
Kate Seymour
kate_s@oser.com
[tel] (520) 721-1300
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
Who doesn’t love being in the know? There’s a true sense of delight
when you realize that you’ve got the scoop on what’s hot, what’s new,
what’s fresh.
PRESIDENT
That’s how most of us feel, I’m guessing, as we walk the aisles of the major trade shows in our
industry. Like a kid in the candy store, we move from one booth to the next, soaking up the
info on the latest colors, finishes, fabrics and styles.
After attending the International Home + Housewares Show, we’ll know what the color trends
are for 2011. And we’ll get to see products that won’t be on store shelves for months. We’ll
have the details on the newest gadgets, glassware, appliances, dinnerware, textiles, cookware,
storage and cleaning items. Even the most veteran of retailers and buyers are still excited about
bringing new products into their stores and in front of their customers. As Joan Dennen of
Compleat Gourmet & Gifts put it: “We’re always looking for the next bread machine.”
Will there be a breakthrough new product at this year’s event? Only time will tell. But it’s
important to continue the search. To not let complacency take over and allow stores to stagnate.
Yes, the economy has put the brakes on unbridled spending, but no retailer can survive without
an infusion of new products to lure customers off the sidewalk and into the store.
In talking about trends with Kevin Young, part of the industrial design team at Continuum,
he said while it’s all well and good to focus on trends and how they influence product design,
we shouldn’t discount the emotional pull that comes from falling in love with something “just
because.” Even if it doesn’t fall neatly into the major trends such as green/sustainable,
multifunctional or ergonomic, it may be a big hit solely for its whimsical and fun nature.
Lee M. Oser
Periodicals postage paid at Tucson, AZ and additional mailing
office. Kitchenware News & Housewares Review (USPS012625) 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.
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85715.
So as you peruse the booths at the IH+HS, don’t forget to look for those items that stir your
soul and make you smile. Maybe it’s a piggy-shaped timer or a pepper grinder that resembles
an apple. Or maybe it’s a set of dishes that look like the kind mom used to use. Whatever it
is, chances are if it delights you, it will delight your customer as well.
Joanne Friedrick, Managing Editor
joanne_f@oser.com
{ news on six }
Kai USA Ltd., Tualatin, Ore., named Kurt
Zanner as vice president of sales and marketing.
Marc Wade has been named vice president of
product administration and product
development. These changes became effective
in January and reflect newly created positions.
In addition, Dominique Dobson’s title has
changed to marketing coordinator from demo
coordinator. In his new position, Zanner is
responsible for managing sales, marketing and
customer relations for the housewares division
of Kai USA. Wade is responsible for product
administration, including new product
development with Kai factories for the
housewares division of Kai USA. Kai Corp., a
family-owned company in Seki City, Japan,
celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2008. It is
privately held and is run by third-generation
owner, Koji Endo. In the United States, Kai has
established several brand names, all controlled
by the Kai USA Ltd. division run by Igarashi.
The brands managed by Kai USA Ltd. are
Shun cutlery and housewares, Kershaw sporting
knives and Zero Tolerance military knives.
Nambé, the family-owned tabletop company,
has once again been recognized for outstanding
design excellence by winning the 2009 Good
Design Award. Two Nambé products were
chosen for this internationally renowned seal of
design excellence, the Twist Coaster Set
launched in October 2008 and the Elbo Bud
Vase introduced in Spring 2009. In business
since 1951, Nambé boasts a vast assortment of
serving pieces, giftware, lighting, frames,
dinnerware, flatware and barware. Vinturi’s
White Wine Aerator also won a 2009 Good
Design Award. The Vinturi White Wine
Aerator is the first-ever aeration tool exclusively
designed for use with white wine. At Bodum
USA Inc., nine products were named Good
Design Award winners. Honored products were
the Chambord Thermo Jug, Cool Water Jug,
two sizes of the new Vacuum-Sealed Double
Wall Stainless Steel Travel Press, Cool Double
Wall Glass Ice Bucket, Gravity Round Salt,
Pepper and Spice Grinder, Presso Storage Jar
and the Bodum Pot Flower Pot in Square,
Conical and Cylindrical shapes. Founded in
Chicago in 1950 by architects Eero Saarinen,
Edgar Kaufmann Jr. and Charles and Ray
Eames, Good Design bestows international
recognition upon the world’s most prominent
designers and manufacturers for advancing new,
visionary and innovative product concepts,
invention and originality, and for stretching the
envelope beyond what is considered basic
product and consumer design. This year, the
Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture
and Design received submissions from more
than 40 countries for this award program,
representing the work of thousands of designers
and manufacturers.
Anolon Ultra Clad Cookware was featured in
the weekly TV series on Food Network, “Worst
Cooks in America,” which premiered Jan. 3.
Anolon’s professional-style clad metal cookware
received prominent play throughout the sixepisode series. Competing to win a grand prize
of $25,000, 12 of the nation’s most hopeless
cooks competed in this high-stakes elimination
series. The “recruits” were put through a culinary
boot camp led by Anne Burrell, host of Food
Network’s “Secrets of a Restaurant Chef,” and
Beau MacMillan, executive chef of Sanctuary
on Camelback Mountain and its signature
restaurant, elements in Phoenix.
Jura-Capresso is expanding its sales management
team as it prepares to take on the Jura retail
business in Mexico and the Jura commercial
business in the United States. To manage these
new business ventures while continuing its
commitment to its growing U.S. retail business,
Jura-Capresso will now have two directors of
sales. Both will report to David Shull, vice
president of sales and marketing, a 13-year
veteran of the company. Lisa Biddle joins JuraCapresso as director of sales, with responsibility
for managing sales representative groups in the
western half of the country as well as retail sales
in Mexico. Biddle was previously Western
regional sales manager for Le Creuset of America.
She has also worked in sales management with
Orrefors Crystal Inc. and has retail experience as
a buyer and manager including Harris’ Company
and J. W. Robinson’s. John Evans, previously
national sales manager of Jura-Capresso, becomes
director of sales with responsibility for managing
sales representatives in the eastern half of the
country, plus the Jura commercial business. Evans
has more than 20 years of extensive sales
experience including Le Creuset of America,
Delonghi America, Krups North America and
The Coca-Cola Co.
Emile Henry announced the winners of the
First Annual National Pie Contest in honor of
National Pie Day: Jan. 23, 2010. The Grand
Prize winning pie was an Italian AppleMascarpone Pie with Almond Topping. Several
hundred pie bakers submitted pie recipes and
photos of their pies baked in Emile Henry pie
dishes. The top winner received a $500 Baking
Essentials Set and a free trip to the 16th Annual
APC/Crisco National Pie Championships in
Championsgate, Fla., April 23-25. Five runnersup received a $50 Baking Set. The travel package
includes a hotel room for two nights at the Omni
Championsgate, free baking space at the pie
championship, free entry of the winning pie into
the Pie Contest and a free membership to the
American Pie Council. The $500 Baking
Essential Prize package includes an Emile Henry
Flame-Top Stewpot, Pie Dish, Lasagna Dish and
Oval Gratin Dish. The package includes a
Cuisipro Food Decorator Pen, a Pastry Blender,
a Scoop & Sift Flour Sifter, a Measuring Cup
and Spoon set and a Silicone Spoon and Spatula.
Included is a Duralex 10-piece Stackable Bowl
Set, an Arc Elegance Measuring Jug, a Rosle Pie
Lifter, Pastry Brush, Egg Whisk and Flat Whisk.
Also included is a Mauviel M’Cook Saucepan.
Wilton Armetale has signed Chef LaLa to a
license arrangement under which Wilton
Armetale will develop an exclusive serveware
line for the celebrity chef. Wilton Armetale
President and CEO Ken Lefever said in a
prepared statement: “We have been talking with
Chef LaLa for quite some time to put together
a program. We are excited to have her
supporting the brand. We have been in the
design phase and will have the collection ready
for launch for the International Housewares
show in March.” The international celebrity
chef and author will be supporting the brand as
well as boosting awareness at various events,
cooking demonstrations and shows around the
country. Chef LaLa is an internationally
recognized chef and healthy-eating advocate.
Wilton Armetale is a family-owned
manufacturing company located in Mount Joy,
Pa. The company has been in business since
1892 and produces Armetale metal cookware
and serveware.
6
L. Tremain Inc. and The Butter Bell Crock
Store Japan introduced The Original Butter
Bell Crock to Japanese customers for the first
time at the Spring 2010 Tokyo International Gift
Show, Feb. 2-5. The exclusive distributorship
with The Butter Bell Crock Store Japan in
Chiba, makes this top-selling line of French
butter crockery available to Japanese retailers
and consumers without the cost of international
shipping. “We’re excited about our partnership
with The Butter Bell Crock Store Japan,” said
Lisa Tremain, president and CEO of L. Tremain
Inc., Los Angeles, in a prepared statement.
“They will carry all the styles and colors available
in the United States and can ship directly to
Japanese customers at a fraction of the cost.
With more than 22 different styles and colors
to choose from, we’re sure Japanese food
enthusiasts will find the Butter Bell crock a
welcome addition to the breakfast table.” The
Butter Bell Crock Store Japan will market The
Original Butter Bell Crock line to specialty
retailers in Japan including gourmet products
stores, bakeries, high-end grocery outlets as well
as direct to Japanese consumers via their website
at www.butterbell.jp.
Vacu Vin, a brand of the International
Innovation Co., received Bestcovery.com’s
No. 1 award for the Best Affordable HighTech Wine Opener, and the Bestcovery.com
No. 2 award for Best Wine Preserver. According
to a review on Bestcovery.com, “The Vacu Vin
Winemaster, with its profusion of levers and
gears looks like a mad science experiment but
works simply and perfectly every time. It’s
lightweight, and its internal mechanisms lever
out-corks with minimal effort. It locks onto
the top of the bottle to let you use both hands
at once. It’s small, easy to store and comes with
a removable, very usable foil cutter. It makes
opening any bottle remarkably simple and
almost fun to do.” The Vacu Vin three-piece
Wine Saver Pump & Stopper Pack was awarded
the second best wine preserver award.
Bestcovery.com, Santa Monica, Calif., relies on
experts and analytical systems to determine the
best product or service for a particular need.
Williams-Sonoma announced Jan. 26 that its
longtime chief, Howard Lester, will retire from
the posts of CEO and chairman after 31 years,
according to an Associated Press article. After
his retirement in May, Lester will continue to
advise the company until December 2012 as
chairman emeritus. Lester, who is 74, has run
the San Francisco company since 1978, when
he bought it from founder Chuck Williams, and
it had four retail stores. It now has more than
600 stores in the United States, Canada and
Puerto Rico; it also owns the upscale Pottery
Barn and West Elm housewares chains. The
company’s board plans to appoint President
Laura Alber its new CEO. She joined the
company in 1995. Alber, who is 41, has been
credited with starting the Pottery Barn Kids and
PBteen lines and for expansion into the Middle
East. Alber said the company plans to open
four stores in the Middle East this year, with
further plans to be determined as they evaluate
the performance of those outlets. Lester will
receive $500,000 per year for consulting on real
estate strategy and seasonal products as well as
shareholder outreach, and he will get 125,000
shares and cash equal to another 125,000 shares
that will vest between now and December 2012.
He also walks away with a $175,000 cash
payment for health care benefits plus
administrative support and expenses during his
time as a consultant, and gets a lifetime
employee discount at the company’s stores.
{ headlines }
Target Offers Giada De Laurentiis for Target Kitchen Gear, Specialty Food
Target recently launched Giada De
Laurentiis for Target, an exclusive line of
affordable cookware products and specialty
food items. De Laurentiis, an award-winning
chef and popular culinary personality, brings
her love and knowledge of food to this new
collection. Designed for everyday cooking,
the new assortment arrived at all Target
stores and Target.com in January.
“Our guests want kitchen gear that makes
their daily cooking easier and more enjoyable,
and Giada’s collection delivers,” said
Kathee Tesija, executive vice president
merchandising at Target, in a prepared
statement. “We combined our design
expertise with Giada’s culinary background
to create a product collection that pairs utility
with great design and affordability.”
Included in the collection are such items as
a 4-quart deep sauté pan, six-piece ceramic
bakeware gift set and a versatile two-block
cutlery set. Food products include five pasta
varieties, three types of pasta sauces, fresh
pesto, light vinaigrettes and rich coffee
blends—all of which highlight her passion
for Italian cuisine. Small appliance offerings
include a gourmet stainless steel panini grill,
and the assortment also features favorite
accessories, such as brightly colored aprons.
The designs for Target range from $6.99
for a nylon spoon with stainless-steel
handle to $199.99 for a 10-piece Tri Ply
Clad cookset that includes 8-inch and
9.5-inch open sauté pans, 1-quart, 2-quart
and 3-quart sauce pans with lids and a
5-quart Dutch oven with lid.
The inspiration for the line comes from her
formal culinary training, professional
experience and her family’s Italian food
traditions. De Laurentiis began her career
upon graduation from Le Cordon Bleu,
working behind the scenes as a chef and food
stylist in Los Angeles before becoming a Food
Network personality and cookbook author.
The Rome native has hosted five Food
Network shows, including “Everyday Italian”
and her current program, “Giada at Home,”
and has written cookbooks that have appeared
on The New York Times best-seller list. Her
latest cookbook, Giada At Home: Family
Recipes from Italy and California, will be
published by Clarkson Potter on March 30.
She will also serve as a spokesperson for
the wide selection of groceries at Target
and SuperTarget stores, and will share her
culinary expertise to help at-home chefs
find fresh produce and affordable brands,
while offering expert tips to make cooking
approachable and fun.
Minneapolis-based Target Corp. operates
1,743 stores in 49 states nationwide and
at Target.com.
The Giada De Laurentiis for Target
collection ranges from kitchen gear, such
as cookware, ceramic bakeware and kitchen
tools, to pasta sauces and flavored coffees,
all designed with the at-home cook in mind.
The collection captures De Laurentiis’s
signature style with a fresh, modern twist on
the tools, gadgets and food needed to make
easy and affordable meals every day.
“It is so exciting to pass along my family’s
cooking traditions to America’s home chefs,”
said De Laurentiis. “The products I’ve
designed for this line are essential in my own
kitchen, and now, through my partnership
with Target, at-home cooks will be able to
make effortless meals affordably.”
CURIOUS CHEF KITCHEN SHEARS
Tailor Made Products’ Curious Chef line
expands with new Kitchen Shears. The
shears feature an all-plastic blade
design with rubber hand grips for
additional safety. The high-quality
shears have a stainless steel fastener
ensuring the blades maintain a
consistent and even cutting edge. The
shears are comfortable for small hands
and make tasks such as snipping herbs
easy and fun. The BPA-free shears will
be available in July.
Suggested Retail Price: $4.99
Curious Chef/Tailor Made Products
[tel] 866-807-6044
www.curiouschef.com
7
barbecue
accessories
BUYERS’ GUIDE
FIRE WIRE FLEXIBLE GRILLING SKEWER
Fire Wire is a stainless steel, flexible cable
skewer that allows users to more effectively
use the space on the grill, marinate in a zipped
bag, and it holds more than twice as much food
as a regular skewer. Fire Wire is dishwasher safe, won’t
rust and comes with a lifetime guarantee.
Suggested Retail Price: $9.99 -14.95
INNO-LABS
[tel] 620-229-9800
www.firewiregrilling.com
KAY DEE DESIGNS’ BARBECUE APRON
Kay Dee Designs’ Alert! The Cook is Hot apron is a
combination of orange and gold with black printing.
The apron ties in the back and features an
adjustable neck strap.
Kay Dee Designs
[tel] 800-537-3433
www.kaydeedesigns.com
CHEF’N GRILL’N
BARBECUE SAUCE MOP
Chef’n Corp.’s new Grill’n line of
barbecue tools feature stainless
steel working ends, elongated
wooden handles and silicone
hanging
loops. The
Grill’n
Barbecue Sauce Mop is specially
designed to hold large quantities
of sauce or marinades. It is heatresistant to 650 degrees. The
silicone bristles easily pick up and
hold sauces. When finished, the
mop head detaches and can be
cleaned on the top rack of the
dishwasher. Hand washing is
recommended for the handle.
WILLIAM BOUNDS GRILL MILL
Whether you are tailgating, picnicking or barbecuing,
Epic Products has the perfect portable container for
holding ice and cooling wine and beer bottles, soft
drinks or sauces. The PortaCool ice bucket inflates for
easy use and deflates for easy storage and travel.
Simply blow up, fill with ice, add bottles and enjoy.
The new Grill Mill from William Bounds can be used for
sea salt or peppercorns and features a sophisticated
design that will appeal to anyone who loves to grill.
Made of durable stainless steel, the straight-sided
design, with it’s textured surface in the middle, makes
for easy grabbing while grilling and cooking, allowing
you to grip and twist without slipping. Inside, the mill
features the exclusive William Bounds stainless steel
ceramic milling mechanism that crushes ingredients
rather than grinding them. It’s fully adjustable to
produce a range of grinds from extra fine to extra
coarse. It is available in small, measuring 5 inches tall
and large, measuring 9 inches tall.
Suggested Retail Prices: $35-$50
Epic Products
[tel] 800-548-9791
www.epicproductsinc.com
William Bounds
[tel] 800-473-0504
www.wmboundsltd.com
EPIC PRODUCTS’ PORTACOOL
8
Chef’n Corp.
[tel] 206-448-1210
www.chefn.com
9
barbecue
accessories
BUYERS’ GUIDE
VACU VIN’S INSTANT MARINATER
The Vacu Vin Instant Marinater uses the vacuum
technology of its food savers for marinating meat,
vegetables and fish. The vacuum opens up the pores
and fibers in the food, allowing a deep and instant
marinating. It works in as little as 10 minutes, eliminating
hours of advanced preparation, and can be used with
any favorite recipe.
International Innovation Co. USA
[tel] 866-274-9009
www.iicbrands.com
HOG WILD’S BBQ BASTER
BRUSHTECH’S BBQ BRUSH
The B308C 21-inch Spiral Wide
Faced Heavy-Duty BBQ Grill
Brush is a patent-pending
spiral design that simultaneously cleans the tops and
sides of the grill with its short
and long brass bristles.
Squeeze on the sauce and brush on the flavor. Just
fill the BBQ Basting Brush with your favorite sauce, then
squeeze onto steaks, burgers, chicken and more. The
sauce spreads smoothly and easily, and the whole unit
stands upright to prevent leaks and spills. It’s dishwasher
safe and made of heat-resistant, durable silicone.
Hog Wild
[tel] 888-231-6465
www.hogwildtoys.com
Brushtech Inc.
[tel] 518-563-8420
www.brushtechbrushes.com
ORKA DELUXE SILICONE STANDING BASTER
Made of 100 percent premium silicone, the Orka
Deluxe Silicone Standing Baster safely bastes all types
of meat. Included is a syringe; a two-sided basting
brush with thin bristles for pastries and delicate foods
and thick bristles for barbecuing; a graduated
polycarbonate tube; cleaning brush and detachable
silicone hook for hanging. The base design allows the
tube to stand upright so fat can naturally separate. It
also prevents the tool from falling over and spilling.
Suggested Retail Price: $15
Mastrad Inc.
[tel] 800-358-0608
www.mastrad.us
COOKED PERFECT THERMOMETER
Norpro’s reusable color-changing indoor/outdoor
thermometer allows users to match color codes to fit
the type of food being cooked such as beef, fish,
pork or poultry. It can be used when cooking with an
oven, microwave, stovetop or barbecue.
Norpro
[tel] 425-261-1000
www.norpro.com
10
{ headlines }
Gourmet Catalog, Le Creuset Debut Exclusive Premier Program
Gourmet Catalog & Buying Group, the
original buying group in the housewares
industry, has joined forces with
international cookware producer Le
Creuset to create a premier store program
exclusive to Gourmet Catalog members.
“We relish the opportunity to join forces
with a well-respected, innovative company
that is steeped in the tradition of quality.
Fashion forward colors and dedication to
product development have kept Le Creuset
at the top of Gourmet Catalog’s list of
vendor members,” said Janis Johnson,
president and founder of Gourmet Catalog,
in a prepared statement. “The new
exclusive premier program is icing on the
cake for our membership.”
The program allows qualifying Gourmet
Catalog store members to take advantage
of a wealth of benefits, discounts, exclusive
products and special opportunities. In
addition, premier program stores will
receive special recognition on Le Creuset’s
online store locator and are awarded a
plaque and window sticker identifying
them as participants.
Le Creuset, founded in France in 1925, is
sold in more than 60 countries around the
world. The company’s cast-iron products,
enameled in signature colors, are
immediately recognized by fine cooks and
are sought after by professional and home
chefs alike.
The premier store program allows
Gourmet Catalog members, already strong
supporters of the Le Creuset brand, to
offer their customers an expanded
inventory and exclusive products they can’t
buy anywhere else. “Le Creuset is proud to
work with Gourmet Catalog,” said Greg
Hasson, Le Creuset, central regional
manager, in prepared remarks. “[GC]
member stores are some of the finest this
industry has to offer.”
Qualification for the program is easily
obtainable for any Gourmet Catalog
member store, and Le Creuset territory
and regional managers will assist store
members with the qualification process.
Gourmet Catalog & Buying Group has been
working to ensure the success of independent
retailers for three decades, with a variety of
programs and support services available to
store members, including discounts provided
by nearly 200 vendor members.
Interested store owners can contact
Gourmet Catalog & Buying Group at 214855-0005 or info@gourmetcatalog.com.
CASABELLA’S BUTTER KEEP ‘N SLICE
No need to guess the amount of
butter that you’re using in your recipe.
Casabella’s new innovative butter
keeper stores, measures and slices one
standard stick of butter. Calibrated
with teaspoon, tablespoon and ounce
measurements, it is made of foodgrade silicone.
Casabella Holdings LLC
[tel] 800-841-4140
www.casabella.com
EVRIHOLDER’S COUPSAKE
The CoupSake keeps coupons at the
ready and helps organize them as well.
In addition, this little product combines
the critical functions of keeping a
grocery list, pen and coupons together
in a compact, totable holder. The
CoupSake holds a notepad for lists,
features a coupon pocket, a pen for
notes and a hanging clip. The outside
front pocket serves as a picture frame
to display a photo. The CoupSake wipes
clean with a damp cloth and measures
just 4 3/8" x 6.5".
Evriholder Products LLC
[tel] 800-975-0335
www.evriholder.com
11
barbecue
accessories
BUYERS’ GUIDE
GRILLY GOAT BASTING TONGS
AND SAUCEPOT SET
GRILLMASTER BAR-B-Q & GRILL CLEANER
Grillmaster masters the problem cleaning on charcoal,
gas and electric grills. It has been used in the
foodservice trades for generations to clean griddles
without removing the cure and grills without leaving
odors and unpleasant aftertaste. Grillmaster’s pumice
stone works through gentle abrasive action. It contains
no chemicals or hazardous substances and is safe
around all foods and equipment.
Sackso Enterprises LLC’s Grilly Goat Grill Set includes
deluxe locking tongs with a replaceable basting brush
for turning and basting meats and vegetables with a
single tool. The tongs have no-slip grip pads for comfort
and a scalloped end to firmly grab grilled items
without damage. The 16-inch length keeps hands
away from flare-ups. The matching saucepot has a
2-cup capacity and includes a cradle for the tongs.
The slot-and-tab design keeps the tongs in place over
the pot, helping keep the grill clean. Both tongs and
pot are made of stainless steel. The brush inserts are
silicone. The set includes the tongs, saucepot and an
extra basting brush insert.
Sackso Enterprises LLC
[tel] 440-925-7832
www.grillygoat.com
United States Pumice Co.
[tel] 909-241-5455
www.uspumice.com
NEXTREND’S THE NEW SKEWER
The New Skewer is a patent-pending barbecue
skewer featuring nine individual prongs that branch
out from the spine. This simple, modern design is as
functional as it is attractive. While ensuring that
food stays put during grilling, The New Skewer’s
individual prongs allow instant access to any food
item. Items won’t spin as they grill, and there’s no
more fighting with the skewer to pry off food. The
New Skewer is a substantial, high-quality grilling
tool backed by a lifetime warranty.
NexTrend Products
[tel] 916-635-3882
www.nextrendproducts.com
MENO TRIGGER GRIP TONGS
TODCO offers a line of red, black or orange 9-inch and
12-inch Meno Trigger Grip Kitchen Tongs. The Meno line
has a unique handle design that is helpful for anyone
with hand pain, hand challenges or anyone needing
a great gripping tool.
TODCO/The Hannon Group
[tel] 262-537-2191
www.hannongroup.com
THE STEAK STATION
The Companion Group introduces the Steak Station,
which monitors four steaks at the same time, allowing
users to cook multiple steaks to the desired degree of
doneness. An easy-to-read monitor allows for quick
and easy evaluation of how much a steak has been
cooked. The probes measure from 115ºF to 170ºF.
Steak Station can also be used in the oven as a
regular meat thermometer.
The Companion Group
[tel] 800-521-0505
www.companion-group.com
12
{ n e w p ro d u c t s }
FARBERWARE
ECOS WITH SANDFLOW
Farberware enters the arena of ecofriendly PTFE and PFOA-free cookware
with the launch of Farberware Ecos with
SandFlow nonstick. Farberware Ecos
features an exclusive SandFlow nonstick,
which originates from sand and is
formatted to provide excellent food
release and easy cleanup. Based on
industry standard lab tests, the SandFlow
nonstick food-releasing performance
outlasts ceramic-based, eco-friendly
cookware by 3 to 1. The curing
temperatures required to manufacture
Farberware Ecos are 50 percent less than
temperatures reached to make ordinary
nonstick pans. Dishwasher-safe Farberware
Ecos cookware is tough enough to handle
the rigors of everyday use. Additionally, it
is ideal for high-heat cooking, as the new
collection is oven-safe up to 600ºF.
Farberware Ecos is crafted from heavyduty, fast-heating aluminum with nonstick
on both the inside and outside for easy
maintenance.The pans feature traditional,
straight-sided shapes, and skillets are
designed with flared rims for drip-free
pouring of pan sauces and juices.
Tempered glass lids allow for food
monitoring during the cooking process,
and rubber-coated handles provide a
sturdy and comfortable grip. Farberware
Ecos collection comes in sets and open
stock items.
Suggested Retail Prices: $14.99 -99.99
Farberware
[tel] 800-809-7166
www.farberwarecookware.com
COMPONENT DESIGN’S
TEA THERMOMETER/TIMER
Capitalize on the tea trend with the
new Digital Tea Thermometer & Timer
Display Pack from Component Design
Northwest. Compact and colorful, this
eye-catching display will prompt
impulse purchases of this specialized
thermometer designed for anyone
who wants to explore the world of
tea. The grab-and-go design fits
compactly near the register or on the
shelf. The red display pack holds six
Digital Tea Thermometer & Timers
and is easy to assemble. Made of
heavy-duty cardboard, the display
clearly communicates the product’s
features and benefits, including preprogrammed settings for different teas
and strengths, instant readout of time
or temperature during steeping and
an audio/visual alarm. The Digital Tea
Thermometer & Timer is also available
individually in CDN slide card
packaging. It features a five-year
warranty and comes with an ABS
plastic case, battery and instructions.
Component Design Northwest
[tel] 800-338-5594
www.cdn-timeandtemp.com
13
{ headlines }
Evriholder Acquires A. Aronson, Gains Entrance to Licensing Arena
By Joanne Friedrick
The acquisition in mid-December of
A. Aronson, a 30-year-old independent
supplier of licensed food storage products
and kitchen accessories, gives Evriholder
Products LLC a strong foothold in the
licensed housewares arena.
Bruce and Phebe Aronson, owners of the
New York-based company, have joined
Evriholder as part of the acquisition,
said Gary Seehoff, CEO of Evriholder.
“We have watched and admired them for
years,” he said.
Evriholder specializes in impulse items in
the kitchen, barware, storage, organization,
cleaning, bath and personal care areas,
while A. Aronson’s focus has been on
licensed products related to kitchen gadgets
and storage. Among the licenses they hold
are Campbell’s, Crayola, Kellogg’s,
Wonder, Eggo, Hostess, Meow Mix,
Pepperidge Farm Goldfish, Pop Tarts,
Prego and SpaghettiOs.
A. Aronson deal, said Seehoff, is how those
licensed products can be woven into
promotional events tied to back-to-school
with Wonder and Crayola and the holidays,
with Campbell’s. The licenses are also a
good fit as Evriholder rolls out its
international marketing plans. Many of
the licensed brands are well-known
internationally, said Seehoff. The company,
which exhibited at the Ambiente Show
in Germany, is targeting
growth
in
Australia,
Latin America, Japan and
the United Kingdom,
said Seehoff.
Seehoff said the characteristics that make
impulse items attractive—functionality,
affordability and fun—are translatable to
the items in A. Aronson’s product mix. “I
think we hit all three, especially fun, with
the A. Aronson line,” said Seehoff, adding
that many of A. Aronson’s licensed items
interest young mothers and their children.
Phebe Aronson is joining
forces with the development team at Evriholder,
said Seehoff, to work on
new products within the
existing lines. New items
should be on the market in
four to six months, he said.
In addition, the company
will look to add more
licenses over the next two
to three years, he added.
“It makes sense to have a
premium
license
in
cleaning and maybe one
more in the kitchen/food
area,” he said.
Another appealing characteristic to the
A. Aronson has held the
current licenses for years, said Seehoff, and
while they are subject to renewal, “our plan
is to keep them for many years.”
“We are very excited about this
combination,” said Bruce Aronson in a
prepared statement. “Both companies are
in the business of creating exciting, fun and
unique items. A. Aronson has done it with
licensed products and Evriholder under
its own brand. Now the two can act in
concert offering the most comprehensive
lineup of unique impulse items to retail.
This is a very powerful fit.”
Seehoff added that this acquisition might be
just the first for Evriholder. “We would do
another downstream if it made sense,” he
explained. “We do have the capability, backing,
interest and appetite for another deal.”
Phebe and Bruce Aronson of A. Aronson with Gary Seehoff and Ivan Stein of Evriholder Products.
Starfrit Celebrates 25th Anniversary Omega Introduces the
Big Mouth Juicer
with Products and Events
In celebration of its 25th year anniversary,
Starfrit, one of Canada’s leading purveyors
of kitchen and food preparation products,
announced a massive anniversary program.
As part of the program, Starfrit USA will
expand its line of affordable quality
products and increase its flexibility in
offering collections and products across
the United States.
Launched in Canada in 1985, Starfrit is
now a well-respected brand sold around the
world. “We are very proud to reach this
milestone, and we are looking forward to
a spectacular year filled with activities and
opportunities to celebrate both our notable
past successes and set the framework for
the exciting challenges ahead, especially
in the U.S. market,” said Jacques Gatien,
president and founder of Starfrit USA Inc.,
in a prepared statement.
Throughout 2010, commemorations of the
Starfrit cookware lines and kitchen gadgets
will be implemented in the United States
as well as in Canada. The 25th year
celebration program will include exclusive
anniversary versions of the Starfrit logo
incorporated on all product packaging and
marketing materials, media launches and
events, as well as parties for key buyers and
retailers. In addition, a special selection
of historical 25th anniversary products will
14
be sold for the price they were offered at
25 years ago.
The March 2010 International Home +
Housewares Show is slated as the focal
point for retail and press festivities. 25th
anniversary product launches will be
publicized by a series of activities including
a special appearance by Iron Chef Cat
Cora at the Starfrit booth. In addition, a
special 25th anniversary cocktail party for
buyers and press will take place at the
Starfrit booth starting at 5 p.m. Sunday,
March 16. All show attendees will be
informed of special guest appearances
throughout the show.
During its 25 years, Starfrit launched more
than 3,296 different kitchen items. And more
than 101,109,479 Starfrit products have been
sold to date under the Starfrit brand. Since
expanding the line to include cookware in
2002, Starfrit has sold more than 4,395,492
cookware units. After 25 years, the potato
chipper and the food chopper are still two of
the strongest items in the line.
Omega is world-renowned for producing
the highest quality, best looking and most
functional juicing and beverage equipment
in existence. As the only company to offer
all categories of juicers, Omega has
developed the perfect complement to its
comprehensive juicing line with the
introduction of the Big Mouth Juicer.
elegant design suitable for proud display in
any kitchen. Add in a 10-year warranty, by
far the longest on the market for this class
of juicer, and it is apparent why the Big
Mouth is taking the juicing world by storm.
For more information, contact Omega
Products Inc. at 717-561-1105 or visit
www.omegajuicers.com.
Omega’s new Big Mouth Juicer is anything
but a typical juicer. Featuring an extra-wide
feed chute, the Big Mouth makes quick
work of large pieces and even whole fruits
and vegetables, cutting down on preparation
time and allowing you to focus on healthy
juicing. The Big Mouth Juicer has the
capability of high-volume juicing and
one of the most powerful motors on
the market to match. While other
juicers are only approved for
household use, the Big Mouth is so
durable and powerful that it has been
approved for commercial use.
Far from being a typical
commercial product, the
Big Mouth is stylishly
built with an
Starfrit products are sold in Canada, the
United States, Mexico, Brazil, Japan,
China, the United Kingdom, Poland,
Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Russia, Italy, Algeria,
Morocco, France, Germany, Belgium,
Luxemburg, South Africa and more.
WÜSTHOF’S
CLASSIC NAKIRI KNIVES
Wüsthof adds to its collection of premium
quality cutlery with the introduction of the
Japanese-style 7-inch Nakiri knife in hollow
ground and fine edge. A traditional
Japanese vegetable cleaver, the Nakiri is
primarily designed to slice, dice and
julienne vegetables, and can also be used
to cleanly cut the thinnest slices of fruit, fish
and meat. Featuring a wide blade with a
distinctive, rectangular shape, the Nakiri
knife is designed for cutting with a forward
thrust action, rather than a rocking or
horizontal pull and push movement used
for rounded blade knives. The Nakiri knife
has a much thinner blade that facilitates
precision cutting. Additionally, the cutting
edge is angled on both sides, which
makes it easier to cut straight slices. The
hollow ground edge is distinguished by a
row of beveled ovals at the edge of
the blade. This design creates air
pockets to eliminate drag when cutting
sticky foods. Classic full-tang knives are
precision-forged from a single piece of
an exclusive high-carbon, stain-resistant
alloy, engineered to enhance edgeretention and to facilitate re-sharpening.
The Classic knife blade is seamlessly
attached to highly durable Hostaform-C
black handles with triple rivets. All
Wüsthof knives are fully guaranteed to be
free of defects in craftsmanship.
Suggested Retail Price: $99.99 each
Wüsthof-Trident of America
[tel] 800-289-9878
www.wusthof.com
VITA-MIX CREATE COOKBOOK
Home chefs will now find it fun and easy
to make gourmet meals like the pros with
the new Vita-Mix Create cookbook,
which is included with purchase of the
CIA Professional Series. Create showcases
culinary creations from more than 20 of
the country’s leading chefs, including
Mario Batali, Joanne Weir, Ani Phyo, Rick
Bayless, Steve Schimoler and many more.
Vita-Mix will also sell the 350-recipe
Create cookbook separately as an addon-sale for current Vita-Mix owners or for
any food enthusiast wanting a collection
of recipes from some of the country’s
top professional chefs.
Vita-Mix Corp.
[tel] 877-848-2649
www.theprofessionalseries.com
MICROPLANE HERB MILL
Microplane’s new manual-style Herb Mill
allows home cooks and professional chefs
to simply chop fine all kinds of fresh herbs
with a simple twist of the wrist. The
comfortable, soft-touch top in herbal
green twists easily to activate the
patented Microplane cutting blade on
the bottom of the unit. The Herb Mill’s
white body container holds a generous
supply of freshly rinsed herbs that are
simply patted dry. The new dishwashersafe Microplane Herb Mill will be available
at retail nationwide in September 2010.
Microplane
[tel] 800-555-2767
www.microplane.com
16
AMERICAN METALCRAFT’S
RISER SETS
CLEANCUT PAPER TOWEL DISPENSER
The CLEANCut is a touchless
automatic paper towel dispenser. It
uses infrared technology to dispense
and cut paper towels. Simply break
the beam on the right with your hand
and the towel instantly starts to
dispense. As soon as you remove your
hand from the beam, the paper towel
stops dispensing. Now that you have
your desired length of towel, break
the beam on the left and the
CLEANCut cuts and holds the paper
towel until you are ready to use it. The
internal rotating cutting blade uses
never-dull technology. The CLEANCut
uses any paper towels, and it even
accommodates jumbo rolls. The
CLEANCut is designed to fit
underneath a kitchen cabinet; it plugs
into a standard outlet. It is available in
black, white and stainless.
It’s easy to help buffet tables
rise to any occasion with
stainless steel Riser Sets from
American Metalcraft. With
three staggered heights, each
set is contemporarily simple,
placing the emphasis on the
food. Two finishes are available
in stainless steel: smooth satin or
hammered. Each Riser Set
raises platters, plates and bowls
6, 7 or 8 inches high.
American Metalcraft
[tel] 800-333-9133
www.amnow.com
Smart Product Innovations Inc.
[tel] 877-441-8368
www.smartproductinnovations.com
IMUSA’S EVOLUTION CALDERO
The Caldero, or cauldron, is a versatile,
durable cooking pot similar to a
Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid. The
Evolution is Imusa’s up-to-date version,
with oven-safe knobs and handles. It
is available in 2-, 3.2-, 4.2- and 6.8quart capacities in a variety of colors
and finishes. In addition to the ovensafe features, the lid has rounded
spikes that help maintain moisture as
the food cooks. The Evolution Caldero
is available in cast aluminum with a
glass lid, cast aluminum with a
nonstick interior and exterior in black,
in cast aluminum with a porcelain
exterior and interior finish in orange
and with porcelain interior and
exterior finish in coordinating interior
and exterior colors.
Suggested Retail Prices: $22.99-69.99
Imusa
[tel] 800-850-2501
www.imusausa.com
17
retailer
profile
by Joanne Friedrick
Compleat Gourmet & Gifts
For nearly 26 years, Barb Trexler and Joan
Dennen, founders and owners of Compleat
Gourmet & Gifts, have been in the front
row for the evolution of the kitchenware
and housewares industry.
The two, brought together by a mutual
friend, combined their knowledge of the
industry as a manufacturer’s rep ( Joan)
with a love of cooking (Barb) and spent a
year working out the details of what would
become Compleat Gourmet. The store
opened in spring 1984 in 1,200 square
feet, but like the product mix and the
customer base, the physical store grew and
changed with the times.
Over the years, said Trexler, the store doubled
in size, moved across the street and added on,
opened a second location to focus on bridal
registry and then, when brides moved away
from formal china and sterling, the store
contracted to the spot it is in today—a standalone brick building in a strip mall. The total
space encompasses 4,800 square feet now,
said Dennen, including the sales floor and
backroom. The staff has also grown from
the two of them to about 15 mostly part-time
employees, many of whom have been with
Compleat Gourmet for 10 or more years.
“We have a wonderful staff,” said Trexler,
“who have been with us a long time.” She
credited the employees with making the
business as successful as it is, calling everyone
who works there “mutually supportive.”
Recently, a long-time customer came in
and commented on how everyone over the
years has treated him with respect, said
Trexler. “We’ve always tried to go that
extra mile,” she said, in terms of offering
customer service. Even though it
sometimes costs them more than they’d
like, Dennen said they still provide free gift
wrap. “That’s just who we are,” she said.
The store’s original focus was on gourmet
cooking products, said Dennen, but they
soon expanded to include gift items. “Our
first gift item was eucalyptus bowls,” said
Dennen, “and 25 years later, we’re still
selling them.” Today the gift category goes
beyond kitchenware and housewares to
include women’s accessories from Vera
Bradley and Brighton jewelry.
From the start, said Trexler, the store
focused on addressing all the needs of its
shoppers, including small electrics. While
the category isn’t a big money maker, they
both agreed that to be considered a true
gourmet and kitchenware store, they needed
to offer products in this category. To
differentiate Compleat Gourmet from big
box and mass retailers, they have selected
brands that other stores may not carry, or
colors and styles that are different. “We
concentrate on brands such as Cuisinart,
Krups and Capresso,” said Dennen,
although she added, “it’s hard not to go into
Costco and see some of our products.”
Carrying small electrics, noted Trexler, “is
more about credibility.” They have
condensed it to selected products, she said.
“Quite a few people who want a specific
product find it online,” said Dennen.
People from around the country look at the
bridal registry information online and
then give the store a call through its
800-number, she said.
Within the tabletop category, Trexler said
they have seen some of the biggest
changes. When they began, she said,
customers were buying fine china and
silver. Today, that has moved to stainless
and stoneware.
Vendors and suppliers also direct people to
the store via their own websites, said
Trexler. In the greater Denver area,
noted Dennen, there aren’t that many
independent gourmet stores left, so that
also helps when shoppers are looking for
unique and special items.
Part of it is the more casual lifestyle, they
agreed, but Dennen theorized that the latest
generation of brides are also benefiting from
having affluent grandmothers and mothers
who are passing on their china, glassware
and silver, meaning fewer people are
registering for new items in those categories.
The duo said they are always on the
lookout for new products, either through
their reps or at trade shows. Over the
years they have visited the International
Home + Housewares Show, the New
York International Gift
Fair, gift
shows in Atlanta and Dallas and the
Gourmet Housewares and New York
Tabletop shows.
This switch in what shoppers want is all
part of the changing demographic from
older, loyal customers to younger ones.
“One of our goals is to attract more
younger customers,” said Dennen. “When
you have an aging population, you have
to,” she pointed out.
One big change for the business during
its 25-plus year tenure has been the advent
of computers and online shopping.
Computers, said Trexler, “put a new spin
on things,” including needing more staff
just to keep up with the website and online
bridal registry.
“We have a Merchandise Mart in Denver,”
said Trexler, “so we have a pretty strong rep
presence here, and we’re shown the newest
items.” Staff members in their travels also
come up with ideas on new items to carry,
said Dennen.
Male customers are another area that
presents growth opportunities, said Trexler.
“We have a lot more men cooking, and
men like good cookware. They want
quality to support their interests.” Men
are also drawn to gadgets, said Dennen,
just like they are to the latest tools at the
hardware store.
Right now Compleat Gourmet doesn’t sell
from its Web site, but both women
acknowledged it’s something that will be
necessary in the future if they are to reach
the changing demographic. For the time
being, the website serves as a showcase
for their product offerings and does bring
some phone or walk-in business.
Many of the trends in the kitchenware
industry have passed through Compleat
Gourmet, whether it was the advent of
the bread machine, home espresso makers
or some variation on the food processor.
“We’re always looking for the next bread
machine,” said Dennen, about the need to
stay on top of trends.
Both Trexler and Dennen said even after
nearly 26 years, they are still enjoying the
business and don’t have plans to change
that anytime soon. “This is family here,”
said Dennen. “We’re not the kind of
people to move around a lot. The people
[who work here] have a common respect
for and support each other.”
SOF-T BY LIQUID SOLUTION
Designed for style, comfort and
durability, the Sof-t combines marinegrade stainless steel with a Sof-Gel
material to create a one-of-a-kind
travel tumbler. The stainless steel interior
creates a strong base that retains heat
and resists rust, flavors and smells, while
the Sof-Gel exterior boosts heat
retention and creates a soft, slip-free
grip. The Sof-Gel exterior also serves as
a platform for creative patterns with its
unique ability to emboss and deboss
multi-level designs. The Sof-t is virtually
unbreakable. It is also 100 percent
recyclable, dishwasher safe and
BPA-free.
Pacific Cornetta/Liquid Solution
[tel] 800-753-5647
www.pacific-cornetta.com
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Photo Credit: Kristin Morin, YourH
ub.com
HIGHWAVE
FLIP/AERATION DECANTER
The Flip/Aeration Decanter is a unique
new wine aeration system contained in
a simple one-liter stainless decanter. A
750-ml bottle of wine is quickly aerated
when poured into this decanter, flipped
and then flipped back to serve. It has
three stages of aeration and the result
is as good as or superior to any
traditional or new systems for wine
aeration. The decanter is also designed
for safe, no-glass travel or serving with
its neoprene tote, fine mesh sediment
screen and fine-tuned pouring lip. It will
be available April 1.
Highwave Inc.
[tel] 800-444-4928
www.highwave.com
RACHAEL RAY GLASS OVENWARE
Rachael Ray brings her affinity for highcomfort, oven-baked dishes to her
growing kitchen products collection
with the debut of Rachael Ray Glass
Ovenware. Crafted from durable
tempered glass in five translucent colors—orange, blue,
green, yellow and red—the
oven, microwave, freezer and
dishwasher safe Rachael Ray
Glass Ovenware includes
a 9" x 13" rectectangular
dish; 15" x 9" oval dish and
10" x 7" oval Dish.
Suggested Retail Price: $27.99-59.99
Rachael Ray Collection
[tel] 800-214-8369
www.potsandpans.com
NOTURN BAKING BASKET
Prime Way Group launches the NoTurn
Baking Basket. This food-grade stainless
steel baking basket is perfect for ovenbaking frozen foods and appetizers in
one quick step. The unique patented
basket with a floating hinge keeps food
neatly tucked inside, while the stainlesssteel open-mesh design allows food to
brown evenly on all sides and throughout
without causing uneven brown spots or
bottom burning. This basket’s design and
even-heat distribution allows food to cook
more quickly, saving energy consumption.
The basket is great for quickly baking
frozen prepared foods, plus its stainless
steel construction makes it a great
companion for the outdoor barbecue.
Prime Way Group
[tel] 905-684-0335
www.primewaycompanies.com
MUD PIE’S INITIAL INSULATED
TUMBLER SET AND PITCHER
Mud Pie introduces a line of Gifted Initial
Insulated Tumblers and Matching
Pitcher. All the products are made of
double-wall polystrene that is designed
to reduce condensation. The initials are
printed on twill embroidered inserts. The
set of four tumblers each hold 16
ounces. The pitcher holds 40 ounces.
Suggested Retail Price: $25 each
Mud Pie
[tel] 800-998-1633
www.mud-pie.com
HAROLD IMPORT’S
SILICONE POT GLOVE
The innovative Silicone Pot Glove offers
triple-layer protection and heat
resistance up to 600º F. Its sturdy-yetpliable 100 percent food-grade silicone
construction is flexible enough for users
to get a firm grip on pots, pans, baking
dishes and even hot potatoes, safely
and easily. With four fingers and an
opposable thumb, the Silicone Pot
Glove is the evolved choice for both
right- and left-handed users and is
perfect for use in both the professional
and home kitchen.
Harold Import Co.
[tel] 800-526-2163
www.haroldImport.com
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{ headlines }
New Green Cleaning Solutions
The innovative design-focused brand Full
Circle has been making great strides in the
development of their line of green kitchen
cleaning tools. Their line of eco-friendly
cleaning tools was first revealed at the 2009
IHA show, and received a fantastic response.
Full Circle aims to take traditional green
products in a new direction by balancing
their sustainability standards with stylish
design, superior function and affordability.
The products are easy on the earth by using
renewable and biodegradable materials such
as bamboo, loofah, cellulose and Bonterra™
(their biodegradable plastic made from the
starch and cellulose in plants). In their first
year they were a Design Defined Honoree
and a Gourmet Golds Finalist. In addition,
the products are designed to solve common
user complaints found in traditional cleaning
tool usage. For example, the popular Scoop
sponge is arched to air dry, keeping bacteria
off countertops, and their Suds Up dish
brush and Suds Up dish sponge not only
come with replaceable heads and soap
reservoirs, but stand on end, eliminating the
need for bulky storage containers.
to reach into even the deepest bottles. The
brush features two brush heads to
simultaneously clean outside and inside and
offers a comfortable, flexible handle that you
can squeeze to really clean around the lid.
This makes it great for travel coffee mugs,
baby bottles and even helps when washing
bottles and jars before recycling is required.
Like all Full Circle products it has an easy
storage solution, which is achieved by
hanging on faucets!
This year Full Circle has launched even more
innovative, beautiful and sustainable tools
that get the job done. The highly anticipated
Reach bottle brush is made with 100 perecent
recycled plastic and recycled stainless steel
and is incredibly versatile. It’s great for
reusable water bottles by being long enough
The Clear glass cleaner is a beautiful tool
made for cleaning glassware. The cellulose
sponge is absorbent and safe to use on wine
glasses and crystal. The layers of sponge are
flexible enough to fit into narrow glasses
and are great for cleaning lipstick stains off
of the rim. Simply slip the edge of the
glass between the layers of sponge, rotate
and say goodbye to pesky lipstick stains.
The sleek bamboo handle is not only
renewable but ergonomic as well. As usual,
Full Circle has built the storage solution
right into the product as it is self-standing,
allowing the sponge to air dry and keep
puddles off of countertops.
This year Full Circle has also taken the next
step in promoting green cleaning in every
room in the house with the Come Clean
natural cleaning set. This set features two
spray bottles, a small mixing container and
an easy-to-follow guide with recipes for
cleaning just about everything with
ingredients you probably already have in your
home. They offer tips and tricks for an easy
transition to fresh, natural cleaning. Many
recipes feature lemon juice and their bottles
come with a built-in lemon juicer that fits
all containers! This set allows you to clean
your home with non-toxic ingredients, save
the planet and save money.
Full Circle offers a full line of stylish,
functional, sustainable cleaning tools for
the kitchen. View their full assortment
at www.fullcirclehome.com or contact
info@fullcirclehome.com or 866-259-0727
for more information.
SACHI INSULATED LUNCH BAGS
TODCO has expanded its line of stylish
and chic Sachi Fashion Insulated Lunch
Bags. Now available in more than 42
different styles and colors, the popular
lunch bags provide a fashionable and
practical way to carry and insulate
lunch, dinner or a snack for work or
school. The eco-friendly totes are
reusable and intended to replace
paper or plastic bags to help the
environment. The bags have a fully lined
silver insulated interior that keeps food
and drink cool or warm for hours. Colors
and styles available include Red, Grey
or Magenta Woolie, Blue Rose, Cream
Hearts, Magenta Rose, Pink and Blue
Floral Cosmo, Silver, Lime or Brown Hobo,
Black Quilt, Blue Squares, Circles,
Orange, Blue or Pink Floral, Pink Squares
and Pink Asian Floral. There is also a new
point of sale floor display that holds up
to 32 assorted totes.
TODCO/The Hannon Group
[tel] 262-537-2191
www.hannongroup.com
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MESSERMEISTER’S CHEESE TRIO
The Cheese Trio Set consists of
Messermeister’s most popular cheese tools.
The Cheese Plane is ideal for medium to
hard cheeses such as Gouda, Muenster
and Cheddar.The tool evenly slices pieces
of cheese. The Mini-Santoku is perfect for
hard cheeses such as Parmesan and
Romano. It is also fabulous for everyday
small culinary tasks and for travel.The highly
praised Cheese and Tomato knife with
large holes is great for soft cheeses like Brie,
Mozzarella and Goat because they won’t
stick to the side of the knife’s blade.Not only
does it work wonders on soft cheeses, but
it is also great for slicing tomatoes.
Messermeister
[tel] 805-640-0051
www.messermeister.com
BONJOUR HARMONY TEAPOT
BonJour’s Harmony Glass Teapot with
Shut-Off Infuser provides tea lovers
optimum control, brewing tea to their
taste preference. Holes in the
specially-designed infuser basket
allow tea to come into contact with
hot water during brewing. After
brewing, the plunge filter seals tea
leaves into a solid chamber to stop
the brewing process. The traditionallyshaped 35-ounce/1-liter capacity
Harmony Glass Teapot with Shut-Off
Infuser is crafted of clear, handblown
borosilicate glass, and comes with a
bamboo trivet.
BonJour
[tel] 800-226-6568
www.bonjourproducts.com
ZAK DESIGNS MINI ROSE BOWLS
Zak has taken their popular Rose Bowls
and shrunk them into a miniature size
that fits in the palm of your hand. The
Mini Rose Bowls are the perfect way to
put out a variety of dipping sauces,
sundae toppings or decorate the
countertop. These nesting bowl sets are
available in solid red, tonal black,
orange and yellow as well as a set of
assorted brights.
Zak Designs
[tel] 509-244-0555
www.zak.com
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PRODYNE FLATWARE CADDY
Organize your flatware in style and
conveniently carry to your serving
area with these new Flatware
Caddys. The four polypropylene,
dishwasher-safe compartments are
removable from the metal rack for
easy cleaning. Perfect for both indoor
and outdoor entertaining, the sleek,
modern design will complement any
kitchen or dining area. Choose from
chrome rack with smoke black
compartments or black rack with
frosted white compartments.
Prodyne
[tel] 800-822-4766
www.prodyne.com
PAULA DEEN
REVERSIBLE GRILL/GRIDDLE
Paula Deen Signature Cast Iron Cookware,
crafted of heavy-duty, pre-seasoned cast
iron, debuts a versatile 12-inch Single
Burner Reversible Grill/Griddle. Offered in
Cast Iron Natural Finish and the Cast Iron
Enamel Finish, both are crafted with a
unique swirl pattern. The flat griddle side
is ideal for starting the day with fluffy
flapjacks, sausages and bacon, and
lunchtime grilled cheese sandwiches. The
reverse side of the pan features deep
grooves for stovetop grilling. Paula Deen
Signature Cast Iron Cookware is heavyduty and also features generous side
handles for a sturdy grip.
Paula Deen Signature Collection
[tel] 800-214-8369
www.meyer.com
VACU VIN KIWI GUARD
The Vacu Vin Kiwi Guard is a clever new
tool that makes the kiwi easy to
transport and eat. The Kiwi Guard is a
sturdy transparent case that protects
the kiwi against bruises it can sustain
when carried in a bag or backpack. It
also holds a handy cutlery set—a green
spoon and knife to prepare and eat
the kiwi. The cutlery is safe for kids. The
Kiwi Guard is dishwasher-safe.
Suggested Retail Price: $6.99.
Vacu Vin/International Innovation Co.
[tel] 704-882-3521
www.vacuvin.com
22
&
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 3
MARCH 2010
Ethnic
Cookware
23
ethnic cookware
IMUSA Utilizes Social Media and Implements Green Measures
IMUSA is connecting with consumers
through social media technology and is
going green with new measures aimed at
making the world a green, more sustainable
environment.
IMUSA webisodes featuring TV cooking
star and IMUSA spokeschef, George
Duran, debut each month on YouTube and
at the IMUSA website, www.imusausa.com.
In the webcast, Duran will showcase a
seasonal recipe, new product or demonstrate
a cooking technique.
In addition to the webisodes, IMUSA
opened its own Twitter and Facebook fan
group to provide a forum for consumers to
learn about the brand’s products. The
Facebook group allows IMUSA fans to
share information about entertaining,
cooking trends, recipe ideas and anything
else food-related. “As the leading brand
of Hispanic housewares, we’re connecting
and building a vibrant community,” said
Manny Gaunaurd, IMUSA president, in a
prepared statement.
The global housewares company is also
going green with their new steps toward
sustainability.
IMUSA has reduced packaging by 17
percent in nearly all of its product
categories and is introducing a line of
cleaning products that are virtually
packaging-free. By reducing unnecessary
packaging from manufactured products, it
removes concerns regarding the cost and
effort of collecting excess packaging,
separating it for recycling, breaking it
down, transporting it to manufacturers and
integrating the recycled materials back into
the manufacturing process.
reduce cooking time up to 70 percent.
Reducing cooking time also means
reducing energy use, greening the home
and the planet.
For more than 70 years, IMUSA has been
offering housewares products to South,
Central and North America.
In less than a year, IMUSA collected and
recycled 80,000 pounds of aluminum. The
company started a recycling/exchange
program where consumers may donate
their old cookware for recycling and in
exchange, receive discount coupons to buy
new IMUSA products.
IMUSA is also educating American home
cooks about pressure cookers, which can
The Story of
Polish Pottery
The History
Polish stoneware originated as folk art in the
early 1800s. It was crafted in the German
province of Silesia, now a part of Poland.
Inspired by the peacock feather, farmers
created a statement of strength and beauty in
each piece of their tableware. Today in a small
village in Poland, skilled artists still
individually hand-craft and hand-paint each
piece of pottery using a hand spongestamping technique and free-hand design.
Antique Polish stoneware can be seen in
museums and in private collections
throughout Europe.
Boleslawiec Artists
Many cooperatives of the Polish stoneware
work in the small town of Boleslawiec, Poland.
The main category of their products is ceramic
tableware. Each piece is an individual artwork,
so no two pieces are exactly alike.
Durability and Beauty
Created from a white clay and fired at
temperatures in excess of 3,000ºC, this
stoneware is lead-free and cadmium-free. This
stoneware is safe for use in the dishwasher,
microwave and oven. It is also impervious to
abrasives. As an extremely durable stoneware,
it will not crack or chip easily. Always place a
small amount of water in the baking piece when
cooking chicken or meat. As always, enjoy!
For more information on Polish pottery, contact
European Design Imports Ltd. at 866-2747688 or by e-mail at peacockimports1@aol.com.
Sushezi…Perfect Sushi—Made Easy
Santé, a Utah-based manufacturer of
innovative cooking equipment introduced
a new, easy way to make sushi: The
Sushezi. The patented design on the
Sushezi provides perfectly formed sushi
each and every time.
“My family loves Sushi, but now that we are
trying to eat out less I am looking for ways
to make it at home.” said Meg Mendenhall,
mother of three. “The Sushezi has been the
perfect solution to our problem; my kids
love to get involved in making their own
rolls just how they like it, and I like how
much money it has saved me!”
With easy-to-follow instructions, Sushezi
creates perfectly formed sushi quickly and
reliably with no guesswork and no trial-anderror. Using your own choice of imaginative
fillings will make you a sushi expert and
have guests coming back for more.
24
The Sushezi can also be used for a variety
of dessert items. Walnut rolls, fudge rolls,
cake rolls and biscuit cookies are just a
few of the possibilities. Kids will also love
to make their own rice crispy rolls, and will
enjoy being able to make their own
personal dessert sushi.
About Santé
Established in 2005, Logan, Utah-based
Santé is a privately held manufacturer of
high-end cooking equipment for the
ultimate home kitchen. Santé is devoted to
bringing its customers innovative and
cutting-edge cooking tools ranging from
the Infusion Roaster and The Skookie to
quality cast iron Dutch ovens, pots, pans
and skillets. Santé is a division of Logan
Outdoor Products, a manufacturer of quality
cookware since 1991. To see what’s new at
Santé, please visit www.santecookware.com
or call 888-726-8348.
ethnic cookware
LE CREUSET HERITAGE
COVERED CASSEROLE
FAGOR AMERICA
FUTURO PRESSURE COOKER
Pressure cookers are a kitchen staple of
many ethnic cooks, including those of
both Indian and Moroccan cuisines.
Fagor’s Futuro Pressure Cooker comes
complete with compact handles for
easy storage, an automatic locking lid
for added convenience, an easycleaning valve, a steamer basket that
doubles as a food grater and a
Tastefully Under Pressure cookbook with
more than 90 delicious recipes.
Fagor America
[tel] 800-207-0806
www.fagoramerica.com
EMILE HENRY
FLAME-TOP CASSOULET
Cassoulet, a traditional stew from
Southwest France, is a slow-cooked
meal packed with sausage, chicken
and white beans. The traditional
cassoulet stew is cooked in a pot that
is shaped slightly like a cone, making
room for a crust on the top. Emile
Henry’s 2.5-quart Flame-Top Cassoulet
is made of a flameproof ceramic
designed to go directly on a heat
source. It is microwave- and
dishwasher-safe. Flame-Top goes
under the broiler and directly from a
freezer or refrigerator into a hot oven.
The Cassoulet is ideal for braising,
browning and slow cooking due to
the gentle and steady heat
distribution properties of Burgundy
clay. Enhancing this cooking action
are raised dots on the underneath
side of each lid that evenly distribute
evaporated juices directly back into
the food. The simple design of the
lid’s central knob allows it to sit on
the table when inverted. The FlameTop Cassoulet is available in Figue.
Emile Henry
[tel] 302-326-4800
www.emilehenryusa.com
SHUN PREMIER COLLECTION
Shun Cutlery by Kai USA Ltd. debuts
Premier, a collection of knives that
draw on the handcrafting techniques
of ancient Japan. Each blade is made
of VG10 “super” steel and is clad with
16 layers of high carbon stainless steel
Damascus on both sides of the blade,
thus creating a 33-layered knife. The
blades are beveled for lateral stability
and precision. The result is an incredibly
thin, sharp edge. And where the steels
meet, a wavy line called a hamon is
formed—similar to the line formed
when samurai swords are tempered
in clay baking ovens. The hammered
finish, “Tsuchine” in Japanese, acts as
a series of hollow-ground cavities,
reducing drag and preventing foods
from sticking to the blade. The graceful
curves of the walnut PakkaWood
handles nestle comfortably in the
hand. The material is easy to grip and
it resists the corrosive effects of water
and soap. The Shun logo is embossed
on the end of each knife handle. The
Shun Premier collection includes: a 4"
paring, a 6.5" utility, a 7" santoku, a 9"
slicing, a 9" bread and an 8" Chef’s
knife. This new collection will be
available in stores in April 2010.
Suggested Retail Price: $125-200 each
In the mid 1920s, Octave Aubecq, Le
Creuset’s co-founder and enameling
specialist, sought to differentiate the
company by creating an enamel that
would mirror the color of the molten
cast iron in a crucible. His effort
produced a bright orange color, called
Flame, that was revolutionary for 1920s
cookware. In celebration of the color
Flame and traditional French cooking,
Le Creuset has expanded the Heritage
Collection to stoneware. Each piece is
available in Flame and has French
scalloped detailing. The 4-quart
covered casserole is perfect for roasts.
In addition to Flame, it is available in
White, Cherry and Cobalt.
Le Creuset of America
[tel] 800-827-1798
www.lecreuset.com
Kai USA Ltd.
[tel] 800-325-2891
www.shuncutlery.com
CreatedinFrance showcased
French-made Collections at NYIGF
CreatedinFrance, sponsored by Ateliers
d’Art de France and dedicated to
promoting the work of French craftsmen
and companies abroad, united 20 French
manufacturers to showcase their collections
at the CreatedinFrance pavilions in the
General Gift and Accent on Design
sections of the New York International
Gift Fair.
Bringing French flair to New York, original
design, high-quality manufacturing and
unmatched style at the CreatedinFrance
pavilions provided event visitors with
exclusive ideas for gifts and home items.
“Dedicated
to
helping
French
manufacturers, we are pleased to bring
members of CreatedinFrance to the USA.
The CreatedinFrance exhibitors at the
winter 2010 NYIGF offer a wonderful
variety of fine products, delivering the best
in quality and design. We are excited to
showcase these collections at this
important international event and look
forward to feedback from American
buyers,” said Alexandre Minne, export
project manager for Ateliers d’Art de
France in a prepared statement.
CreatedinFrance exhibitors at the NYIGF,
Jan. 31 to Feb. 4 were: Alain Saint Joanis;
Beaume Collection; Beauville; BTC
Distinguished French Gifts; Claude
Dozorme Cutlery; Faiencerie de Quimper
– HB Henriot; Faienceries d’Art de
Malicorne; Georges G; Laguiole en Aubrac;
Les Provencales Ambiences; Panier des
Sens; Porcelaine Pierre Arquie; Provence
Lavandes; Toulhoat; Tissage Moutet;
Valombreuse; Herve Gambs Creation; Jars;
Kajaal; and L’Agenda Moderne.
Created in 1868, Ateliers d’Art de France,
the French federation for craft
professionals, is designed to promote and
support more than 3,000 professionals.
For
more
information,
www.createdinfrance.com
visit
IMUSA CHOPPER
The Chopper has the perfect capacity
to make a sofrito, which is a base
ingredient for many Caribbean/South
American dishes, while in the Mexican
market it is ideal to chop jalapeños,
cilantro, onions, garlic and tomatoes for
the base seasoning in many traditional
dishes. The 2-cup capacity chopper
features pulse control and offers two
1.5-inch blades for efficient chopping.
Pieces are detachable for easy storage.
IMUSA
[tel] 800-850-2501
www.imusausa.com
25
26
{ headlines }
NYIGF Plans Reorganization Culminating in New Look for 2013
Focus Forward NYIGF 2013, a strategic
reorganization of the New York International
Gift Fair was announced in early February
by GLM.
This transformation will result in the
creation of four comprehensive market
collections: NYIGF Home, NYIGF
Lifestyle, NYIGF Handmade and NYIGF
New! NYIGF Home will encompass home
furnishings, home textiles, decorative
accessories, tabletop, gourmet housewares
and Accent on Design; NYIGF Handmade
will include designer-maker and global
resources; NYIGF Lifestyle will present
personal care and wellness, gift and
stationery, fashion accessories and Baby +
Child—a new juried category debuting in
summer 2010; and NYIGF New! will
feature the newest vendors. The changes
are designed to expand resources, spotlight
new products and innovations and create
cross-marketing opportunities.
By reorganizing the show into neighborhoods of like products, Dorothy Belshaw,
NYIGF director and GLM senior vice
president, said buyers will still be able to
explore the show floor, but in a more
organized, streamlined manner.
“The issue for buyers today,” she said, “is that
budgets don’t allow for as much time at the
show.” Under this new structure, she said,
buyers can find their existing vendors more
easily, but also examine similar products
because they are in the same area. It also
shows the depth of the categories that buyers
are interested in, she said, and should
encourage new buyers to attend.
The decision, she said, came primarily in
response to buyer input. After each NYIGF,
management conducts surveys. The
generalized response, she said, led to
additional research six months prior to the
announcement about what types of products
attendees are buying. From there, she said,
they determined the main categories of
interest and aligned them accordingly.
They were also able to determine from the
data gathered which areas needed to be
highlighted more effectively, she said. This
led to the decision to add for summer 2010
the new juried Baby + Child category, for
upscale baby and children’s products, and
the reorganization of the Handmade division
into Designer Maker and Global Resources
categories. Designer Maker will include
some 360 designer-makers from across the
United States and around the world, and
Handmade: Global Resources will include
some 200 imported resources featuring
traditional designs and craftsmanship and
global Fair Trade production.
Belshaw said 40 percent of the show’s
audience exhibited interest in baby and childrelated products. By highlighting this area
with some 200 exhibitors, she said, “we’re
encouraging new retailers to come as well as
bringing some retailers back.” Likewise, 50
percent expressed interest in designer
products, and 38 percent wanted more
production-craft items.
Beginning in 2010, and culminating at the
summer 2013 event, temporary and
permanent NYIGF floor plan changes will
align with planned construction and
renovation of New York City’s Jacob K. Javits
Convention Center—the home of NYIGF
since 1986. The transformation of the Javits
Center will include installation of a new
green roof—the largest of its kind in New
York City, construction of the new Javits
Center North which extends the building to
40th Street and major renovations to
building systems, skylights and roof.
New York’s Newest, showcasing companies
new to the New York market, will be
reintroduced to NYIGF in summer 2010.
The division, which will feature some 250
newcomers to the fair, will be housed at Pier
92. Belshaw said even though these new
vendors are in a space separate from the
main floor, “this has always been a
destination for retailers.” Additionally, she
said, the cost to exhibit is lower so “it’s a good
way for new, smaller vendors to enter,” and
by Joanne Friedrick
these companies won’t be overshadowed by
big brands. For retailers, this section often is
an indicator of what the trends are in the
industry, depending on the scope of the
categories represented.
While 2013 is the target for instituting the
changes, Belshaw said each year will see
some moves toward that goal. In 2011, the
focus will be on expanding the Home section
to include more gourmet products, as well as
some tactical changes on Level 3. By 2012,
she said, construction should be completed
in the Galleria, so the global exhibitors can
move into that space and personal products
can set up in Hall D. But Belshaw noted,
depending on the pace of construction and
the changes in the marketplace, “we need to
be agile and make decisions” as needs arise.
NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, home
and lifestyle marketplace, with 2,700
exhibiting companies featuring a breadth
and depth of design-driven home fashion
products and complementary giftware. Some
31,000 attendees from all 50 states and more
than 85 countries worldwide are expected for
the summer event.
In summer 2010, NYIGF runs Aug. 14 to
19, at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
and Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and
94. Information and registration is available
online at www.nyigf.com.
PIGGY WIGGY MINI FRY PAN
MSC International’s Piggy Wiggy Mini
Fry Pan is ideal for sandwich-size eggs
and pancakes that will be imprinted
with a 3-D pig face. It features an
environmentally friendly, chemicalfree, nonstick ceramic surface for
easy clean-up.
MSC International
[tel] 888-603-3023
www.msc-international.com
27
product
feature
Fiesta Harkens Back with America’s Diner Series by Joanne Friedrick
Comfy and cozy: That’s how many people
imagine their at-home dining experience
these days. Richard Brinkman, vice
president sales and marketing at The
Homer Laughlin China Co., said most
young people today are harkening for a
nostalgic look that mirrors what their own
parents or grandparents used on their
dinner tables.
In response, Homer Laughlin has
revitalized
its
Fiesta’s
America’s
Diner/Bistro series of dishes, coming out
with a line of durable, oversized open-stock
pieces in bright colors in either stripes or
checks. The pattern was first introduced for
restaurants and diners in the mid-1900s.
Today’s version accommodates modern
needs, but retains the vintage look.
“We’ve sized up the pieces to be consumerfriendly,” said Brinkman, noting that
instead of an 8.5-ounce mug, the line offers
a 13-ounce version. And bowls that
typically were 10 or 11 ounces are now
designed to hold 18 ounces. The jumbo cup
holds 22 ounces.
The checks and stripes are offered in six
colors: Scarlet, Cobalt, Chocolate,
Turquoise, Cinnabar and Black. All the
colors are teamed with an ivory background,
he said. “When the economy is tough,
brighter colors do better,” he noted. The
dishes will roll out in Scarlet and Cobalt
first, although some stores will also offer the
Chocolate and Turquoise as well.
The new colors and patterns are also
designed to match or complement existing
Fiesta dinnerware colors, and can be mixed
into existing table settings to add a point
of difference. The America’s Diner line is
all open stock for that reason, said
Brinkman. Available are dinner and
luncheon plates, mugs, bowls, a jumbo cup
and saucer, a medium bistro bowl and a
platter. Suggested retail prices range from
$9.99 to $26.99.
In addition to fitting consumers’ desire for
nostalgia, Brinkman said the line also
addresses the trend toward buying
American-made products. “Made in
America is one of the most influential
factors,” he said. “And diner is one of the
biggest American icons.”
Diner style fits with the bistro, or more
casual way of dining that fits peoples’
lifestyles, he said, both for everyday dining
and entertaining. With the different colors
and patterns, Brinkman said there are 130
pieces available in the America’s Diner
series, but they are already thinking about
doing additional sizes of bowls and platters.
The company is also launching a new color
for its Fiesta line, Paprika. It is the 14th
FAGOR AMERICA’S PAELLA PAN
Fagor’s Stainless Steel Paella Pan is
the ultimate pan for making the
traditional Spanish Paella rice dish, or
any other rice or sautéed dish. It
provides ample cooking surface,
and its elegant design and shape
are perfect as a serving dish. The
pan is made with a nonstick coating
color in the current line-up. Paprika will
be available in stores and online beginning
June 20. Suggested retail price for the fourand five-piece place settings is $48. Paprika
will also be available in square three-piece
place settings for $40. In addition to place
settings, the line includes a variety of
plates, platters, bowls, cups, vases, the
signature disc pitcher and a wide range of
serving pieces.
The introduction comes at a time when
The Homer Laughlin China Co. is
celebrating its 75th anniversary. To support
its anniversary program, Brinkman said
the company is collecting stories from its
customers that it will provide to magazines
and newspapers. The stories tell how Fiesta
dinnerware is being passed down within
families. The top 25 stories will earn
submitters a place setting. “Fiesta is all
about family,” said Brinkman. “The
consumer has latched on to it for 75 years.”
and features round riveted handles
for easy handling and security.
An English/Spanish recipe booklet
is included.
Fagor America
[tel] 800-207-0806
www.fagoramerica.com
WARING PRO
PROFESSIONAL DEEP FRYER
HOURGLASS COFFEE MAKER
The Hourglass Coffee Maker strips out acid using a cold-water brew process. The
Hourglass comes with a stainless steel filter, uses no heat or electricity and is made
with BPA-free plastic. It is completely portable, spill proof and shatterproof.
Hourglass Coffee
[tel] 800-875-2820
www.hourglasscoffee.com.
28
Waring Pro’s new Professional Deep
Fryer is ideal for individual or small family
use, with a 2-quart removable enamelcoated oil container with pouring spout
and a stainless steel basket with cooltouch handle that has a 1.3-lb. food
capacity. The fryer has a 1,500-watt
immersion-style heating element for fast
heat-up and quick oil temperature
recovery time, and has a variety of
safety features.
Waring Consumer Products
[tel] 800-988-1000
www.waringproducts.com
29
CHEF’N GARDEN
VARIETY MINI PEPPERBALLS
CIRCULON ELITE
PLATINUM COOKWARE
As part of a yearlong celebration of
the brand’s 25th anniversary, Circulon
expands on its successful Circulon
Elite Cookware collection with the
introduction of Circulon Elite Platinum
Cookware. As its name suggests, the
new assortment of hard-anodized
nonstick cookware features a
modern, platinum-hued nonstick
exterior. Constructed of highly
durable, heavy gauge hard-anodized
aluminum, Circulon Elite Platinum
provides fast and even heating with
no hot spots. The new collection
features Circulon’s signature Total
Nonstick Food Release System. This
superior wave technology, coupled
with the most advanced nonstick
surface available, offers extraordinary
food release and lifelong durability.
Circulon Elite Platinum is designed
with slightly dome-shaped lids made
of translucent, break-resistant glass
rimmed in brushed stainless steel,
which allows for easy monitoring of
the cooking process. The elegantly
styled brushed stainless steel handles
feature silicone comfort grips. Each
handle is riveted permanently to the
pan or lid for maximum durability.
Circulon Elite Platinum is oven-safe to
400°F. It is offered in a 10-piece set
and select open stock items.
Suggested Retail Prices: $24.99-249.99
The Chef’n Corp. introduces Garden
Variety Mini Magnetic PepperBalls—a
line of collectible miniature fruit and
vegetable pepper grinders. Garden
Variety includes a Red Apple, Green
Apple, Cherry, Olive, Tomato and Garlic.
Designed in classic Chef’n form to be
used with only one hand, the Garden
Variety Mini Magnetic PepperBalls also
are equipped with ceramic rasps and
magnetic backings. To refill, simply lift
the rubber flap between the handles. All
six come filled with fresh peppercorns.
Suggested Retail Price: $9.99 each
Chef’n Corp.
[tel] 206-448-1210
www.chefn.com
Circulon
[tel] 800-326-3933
www.circulon.com
AVYA FELT BREADBASKET
Teroforma, which partners with
independent designers and makers to
produce its modern tableware
collection, introduces the Avya Felt
Breadbasket. This clever container ships
flat; then, when two tabs are tucked
into slots, easily transforms into a
gracefully curved bread server. The
thickness and friction of the felt
surfaces keep the assembled version
upright, even when the front is opened
for access to the contents. It will hold
four bagels or equivalent-size breads.
After the meal, it can store flat or
remain assembled and displayed as a
decorative object. It is made of 100
percent wool felt. Available for spring
in Soft White, Spring Green, Deep Brown
and Quiet Grey, with an autumn
palette to be offered later in the year.
Teroforma
[tel] 877-899-1190
www.teroforma.com
30
{ ih+hs preview }
IH+HS Special Events and Educational Seminars for 2010
Saturday—March 13
Special Retailer University
An all-day educational session focused on
tools to grow your business and make it more
profitable.
8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.
Level 1, South Building, S102a
Sunday—March 14
Housewares Design Theater,
Sustainability for Beginners:
Green Vocabulary
With Catherine Del Spina, NextLife.
9:30–10:20 a.m.
Exhibit Floor, Lakeside Center
As Seen on TV Panel Review
With Karen Hyman, LiveLinkTV;
Bernadette Voelker, QVC; Paul Greenberg,
Thane Direct; Tim Harrington, Reliant
International; Scott Hynd, Proformance
Marketing; Gary Sullivan, Allstar Products;
and an executive from ICOMM.
10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Exhibit Floor, South Building
Housewares Design Theater:
Global Influences for the Season Ahead
With Rita Nakouzi, Promostyl America.
10:30–11:20 a.m.
Green Retail Design
With Martin Pegler,
Fashion Institute of Technology.
11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Keynote Address: Kip Tindell,
The Container Store
Some say the only reason a corporation exists is
to maximize the profits of its shareholders. Not
at The Container Store. The original storage
and organization store has proven since its
inception in 1978 that by FIRST taking care of
their employees the bottom line will flourish.
Kip Tindell, chairman and CEO of The
Container Store, will share what the company has
done to nurture its employee-first culture over the
years, and how that culture has been vital to the
retailer persevering through a down economy.
Noon–1 p.m.
Grand Ballroom, Level 1,
South Building S100
Judging the Value of Great Design
With Peter Giannetti, HomeWorld Business,
on why housewares design award winners
attract today’s savvy consumer.
12:30–1:20 p.m.
As Seen on TV Panel Review
With Karen Hyman, LiveLinkTV;
Bernadette Voelker, QVC; Paul Greenberg,
Thane Direct; Tim Harrington, Reliant
International; Scott Hynd, Proformance
Marketing; Gary Sullivan, Allstar Products;
and an executive from ICOMM.
12:45–2:45 p.m.
Sustainable Secondary Packaging
With Dennis Salazar, Salazar Packaging.
1:30–2:20 p.m.
The Importance of Brand
With Peter Goldman, The NPD Group Inc.,
Home Division.
2:30–3:20 p.m.
Housewares Design Theater: Can You
Believe She Said That About You?
With Mark Bachmann and Michelle Venorsky.
3:30–4:20 p.m.
Sunday Night Reception
5:30–6:30 p.m.
Grand Concourse Lobby
Monday—March 15
Top Trends for 2011
Tom Mirabile, senior vice president, Global
Trend and Design, Lifetime Brands, will
discuss the top trends for 2011 in his seminar
“Staying Relevant to a Changing Consumer.”
Mirabile’s presentation will address: Who
are today’s most important housewares
consumers, and how can you attract them and
form lasting relationships? What is the new
definition of value for today’s consumer?
When will consumers start spending again,
and what will they be spending on? Where
are the most important consumer lifestyle
shifts, and how can they be leveraged to
create opportunities in the aisles? Why is
newness and innovation more important than
it was before the recession? During the
presentation, Mirabile will question a panel
of expert industry trend forecasters who will
share their opinions and predictions for 2011.
7:30–8:30 a.m.
Grand Ballroom, Level 1, South Building S100
Innovate Now with Sustainable Products
With Deb Singer and Susan Crow,
Singer Group.
9:30–10:20 a.m.
Noon–1 p.m.
South Building, S100
Understanding the Green Consumer
With Suzanne Shelton, Shelton Group.
12:30–1:20 p.m.
“Pitch to the Pros”
Corporate Panel Reviews
With Diego Hoic, Church & Dwight;
Jeanne O’Connor, Reckitt Becker; Barb
Downey, Skymall; Gary Seehoff, Evirholder;
Howard Lim, How Creative.
12:45–2:45 p.m.
Intellectual Property Strategies
With Damon Neagle, Design IP.
1:30–2:20 p.m.
Using Google to Make
Customer Connections
With Kelly Fitzgerald, Google.
2:30–3:20 p.m.
Housewares Design Theater,
Trendspotting: New Product Innovations
An IDSA panel discussion of show
highlights.
3:30–4:20 p.m.
International Reception
The Housewares Export Council invites all
international attendees to the 2010
International Reception.
5:30–7:30 p.m.
Vista Ballroom, Level 4, South Building
Housewares Charity Foundation Gala
6–10 p.m.
Chicago Hilton
Tuesday—March 16
“Pitch to the Pros”
Corporate Panel Reviews
With Diego Hoic, Church & Dwight; Jeanne
O’Connor, Reckitt Becker; Barb Downey,
Skymall; Gary Seehoff, Evirholder; Howard
Lim, How Creative.
10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
How to Make Your Store a Destination
With Connie Esler and Jerry Cole, Starpoint
Consulting.
10:30–11:20 a.m.
Millennials Have $200 Billion
in Spending Power!
With Robin Albing, Albing International.
11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Exhibit Hall, Lakeside Center
Color Trends:
The Catalysts That Create Change
Join color specialist Leatrice (Lee) Eiseman for
the debut of Pantone’s color palette for 2011.
Industry Breakfast
7:15–8:30 a.m.
Getting It Right in Store Design
With Charles Sparks, Charles Sparks Co.
9:30–10:20 a.m.
Reduce Your Risk of New Product Failure
With A.J. Reidel, Reidel Marketing Group.
10:30–11:20 a.m.
Exhibit Hall, Lakeside Center
The Future of Indoor/Outdoor
Product Innovation
With Rob Tannen and Mathieu Turpault,
BesslerGroup.
11:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
Designers Choice:
What Colors Are They Buying?
Join color specialist Lee Eiseman as she
shares an inside glimpse into some of the
specific Pantone colors designers from both
fashion and home furnishings industries are
actually purchasing.
Noon–1 p.m.
Retail and Manufacturer
Product Responsibility
With Scott Cassel, Product Stewardship
Institute.
12:30–1:20 p.m.
Housewares Design Theater: Exhibitor
Panel Discussion
On meeting consumers’ and retailers’
green expectations.
1:30–2:20 p.m.
Wednesday—March 17
Chicago Retail Tour
Learn firsthand what is driving the retail
market at a variety of unique home and
housewares retailers including Best Buy,
Walmart, Target and more. Pre-registration
is required.
8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Intercontinental Chicago
Special Events
7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. all three days
Student Design Competition
The industry’s up-and-coming designers
showcase their creativity and ideas for future
products in the Housewares Design Center.
Level 3 Lobby, Lakeside Center
Pantone ColorWatch Display
Pantone ColorWatch, a powerful look at the
impact of color on the industry in a display
sponsored by Pantone Inc. Color palettes
representing the strongest home furnishing
trends for 2011 will be depicted with
illustrations and actual products.
Level 3 Lobby, Lakeside Center
Restaurant Row
Visit Chicago’s Restaurant Row in the
Gourmet District. Here you will find some
of Chicago’s most famous restaurants
offering samples and information on their
signature specialties.
Gourmet District, South Building
Design Defined Display
Teams of design professionals and young
designers will visit the Clean + Contain Expo
searching for quality designed products their
professional training tells them represent
Design Defined.
GIA Award Display
Benefit from the merchandising savvy of this
group of best-in-class retailers by visiting
the gia Showcase where visuals of their
award-winning efforts are on display.
Design Directions: Going Green Display
This display will feature the latest in exhibitors’
sustainable products and packaging.
Exhibit Floor, North Building
31
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IHA Report Takes Housewares Industry Snapshot
The average U.S. household spent $609 on
housewares in 2008, a 0.7 percent increase
from the previous year, according to the
recently released 2009 International
Housewares Association State of the
Industry Report.
Put into perspective using U.S. government
data, U.S. households spent more on
housewares than on dairy products and
just slightly less than on fruits and
vegetables. Those households spent the
most on gasoline and motor oil, on average
nearly four times that for housewares.
Every year since 1996, the International
Housewares Association has provided a
look into the housewares industry mirror
as a strategic service to its hundreds of
members. This annual recap of the
industry, a joint effort of IHA and Raftery
Resource Network Inc., includes a
compilation of data from the IHA annual
membership survey and authoritative
sources such as the U.S. government.
In a change this year, the data that
member companies contributed are
entirely from 2008. In past years, a small
percentage of some category and channel
data from prior years were included to
expand the sample size. Additionally, new
category-level data from IHA members
released in 2009 are aggregated with more
32
detail than top-line estimates developed
for the SOI report, which supports
strategic planning between housewares
suppliers and their retail partners.
This new data, compiled by Riedel
Marketing Group for IHA, includes U.S.
retail sales estimates for bakeware, $425.5
million and cutlery, $633 million.
Key findings from the 2009 SOI report:
• Global housewares market data show an
overall decrease of 0.3 percent, driven in
part by a decline in the U.S. dollar. The
statistics used in these global projections
reflect only modest changes from 2007
around the globe.
• The average U.S. household spent 3
percent less on housewares in 2008, in
the midst of a deep economic downturn.
Among five major categories, three
declined (furniture, appliances and
miscellaneous household equipment),
while two increased (housewares and
personal care products).
• More than half (58 percent) of IHA member
companies produce all their products offshore.
Another third (34 percent) make some
products in the U.S.
• Most IHA member companies (65 percent)
export product to other countries. At least half
of those companies focus on Canada, Western
Europe, Mexico and Latin America.
yet still active—consumer
immediate future.”
for
the
• Discount stores and supercenters
remained the sales leaders in all
housewares categories, yet other channels
did pick up market share for the second
consecutive year.
Another Insight based on advertising
budget data says housewares manufacturers
may need to follow their audiences closely
as they “migrate from the traditional print
media to online options.”
Virtual retailers distributed 13 percent of
the 2008 housewares sales, which was
slightly down from 2007, but gains were
seen from manufacturers’ direct-toconsumer websites.
And a third Insight considers store saturation:
“Since most retail inventory is on the sales floor,
today’s consumer is likely to experience less
densely packed aisles versus the mid-’90s, when
stores emptied one less time per year and retail
space was 10 square feet smaller per person.”
“The data IHA provides in this report
gathers information that member
companies may not have the time or
resources to compile individually,” said
Philip Brandl, IHA president, in a prepared
statement. “It’s an important way the
association can help our members and our
industry identify trends that can impact
the way they do business in the near future.
‘SOI Insights’ on many pages of the report
offer an executive summary.”
One such nugget based on household
income data, for instance, said consumers
are apparently becoming thriftier, even as
most earn less income. “If gasoline prices
remain moderate,” the Insight stated, “the
implication for housewares manufacturers
is a more discerning and price-sensitive—
The 72-page SOI Report also offers several
“top” lists including Top 100 domestic
retailers, top domestic housewares retailers,
warehouse vacancy rates for selected U.S.
cities and top Internet properties ranked
by number of unique visitors.
The SOI Report co-author, Raftery Resource
Network, is a multi-disciplinary team of
independent professions led by Dan Raftery,
who has authored more than three dozen
reports on a variety of leading-edge subjects for
food, drug and housewares associations. R2N
has co-authored The SOI Report since 2002.
The 2009 SOI Report is available at
www.housewares.org. Non-members can
purchase a copy of the report for $500.
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Iron Chefs Headline Line-Up of Cooking Theater Celebrity Chefs
Five of the chefs featured on the Food
Network’s Iron Chef America will
showcase their culinary skills in the
Cooking Theater during the 2010
International Home + Housewares Show
March 14-16 at Chicago’s McCormick
Place. Heading the line-up of celebrity
chefs will be Mario Batali, Cat Cora,
Masaharu Morimoto, Michael Symon and
Jose Garces, the newest Iron Chef.
Chicago. Participants include: Berghoff
Restaurant, Bistro 110, Carnivale Chicago,
Buca Di Beppo, Ditka’s, Fogo de Chao
Chicago, Fulton’s On The River, Hard
Rock Café, India House, Lawry’s The
Prime Rib, N9NE Steakhouse Chicago,
Rockit Bar & Grill, Morton’s The
Steakhouse—downtown Chicago, Roy’s
Hawaiian Fusion Restaurant, Spiaggia and
Sunda New Asian.
The Cooking Theater is the focal point of
the innovative Gourmet Home + Food
District (GOHO). On hand will be
exhibitors of specialty and gourmet treats
and the tools used to prepare them.
GOHO also features the National
Association for the Specialty Food Trade
(NASFT) Specialty Food Marketplace and
Restaurant Row, featuring representatives
from 30 of Chicago’s most famous culinary
establishments. The Cooking Theate
r
is jointly sponsored by All-Clad
Metalcrafters LLC, KitchenAid and
Wilton Brands Inc., with all food supplies
provided by Whole Foods Market.
The 2010 International Home + Housewares
Show will feature 1,800 exhibitors from
around the world showcasing home goods,
gourmet specialty foods and housewares
products. For more information, visit
www.housewares.org.
The Cooking Theater will feature chef
demonstrations beginning at either 9 a.m.
or 9:30 a.m. each show day. In addition to
Batali, also a first-time show exhibitor with
his booth Mario Batali LLC, and his fellow
Iron Chefs, the current line-up includes Food
Network personalities and well-known
celebrity chefs Paula Deen, Todd English,
Ellie Krieger, Suvir Saran and Ming Tsai.
Also included are national celebrity chefs
who call Chicago home, including Top Chef
Master Rick Bayless, Gale Gand, Rick
Tramonto and The Hearty Boys. TV chefs
born from “Top Chef ” fame, Stephanie Izard,
Dale Levitski and Tre Wilcox, will also give
demonstrations along with local chefs Martial
Noguier and Suzanne Imaz of the Sofitel
Chicago Water Tower Place. Many chefs,
including Bayless, English, Krieger and
Symon, will also hold book signings after
their demonstrations.
“We are pleased to host these well-known
chefs who support this year’s exhibitors of
gourmet specialty foods in the Gourmet
Home + Food District,” said Phil Brandl,
president of the International Housewares
Association, in a prepared statement. “Our
buyer audience has told us that they
appreciate being able to shop the gourmet
foods category in conjunction with the visit
to the show. This category offers traditional
home goods retailers a significant additional
sales and profit opportunity.”
To make GOHO a must-visit destination
again in 2010, the NASFT will host its
Specialty Food Marketplace. Buyers will be
able to sample products and receive information
on all items featured in the Marketplace.
Looking for dining options during the
show? Visit Chicago’s Restaurant Row,
where you’ll find representatives from 30
of Chicago’s most famous culinary
establishments with information on their
signature specialties. They’ll even make
reservations for you during your stay in
33
{ headlines }
Crate and Barrel Adopts
Spring Gift, Home and
Kiva Warehouse Automation System Holiday Market Event Planned
Home furnishings retailer Crate and Barrel
has turned to Woburn, Mass.-based Kiva
Systems, a developer of mobile-robotic
solutions that automate order fulfillment
and warehouse operations, for its
Tracy, Calif. distribution complex. The
Tracy complex fulfills direct-to-consumer
orders and improves service levels in 13
western states.
This Crate and Barrel distribution complex
is the largest industrial facility in the
country to achieve Gold designation from
the U.S. Green Building Council’s
Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design certification program.
“Kiva’s mobile robotic approach is not only
the most cost-effective way to automate
pick, pack and ship operations, but also the
greenest. The robots themselves are energy
efficient, plus the entire robot zone can be
operated with almost no lighting. Our
customers expect to get great value and
service from Crate and Barrel, but they
also care about our carbon footprint. This
played a role in our selection of Kiva
Systems,” said John Ling, vice president of
supply chain management and logistics at
Crate and Barrel, in a prepared statement.
Kiva’s innovative approach to order
fulfillment uses hundreds of mobile robotic
drive units that bring inventory directly to
workers, allowing easy and efficient access
to available inventory items at all times.
Elimination of walking and waiting enables
worker productivity that is two to four times
higher than with other automated systems.
What’s more, because all the system
components are mobile and modular, a
Kiva-equipped distribution center has
unprecedented flexibility when adding new
products or expanding throughout—
without disrupting ongoing operations.
Crate and Barrel was among the first to
make contemporary tabletop and
kitchenware designs affordable to
American consumers. Today, Crate and
Barrel is an industry leader, known for
exclusive housewares and furniture designs,
excellent value and superb customer
service. In addition to a thriving direct
marketing division, the company operates
stores in most major North American
markets, including Toronto and Calgary.
Building on the momentum, buying
power and customer partnerships that
propelled its successful January Markets,
AmericasMart is poised for its next
showcase: The Atlanta Spring Gift, Home
Furnishings & Holiday Market and
Atlanta International Fine Linen & Home
Textiles Market March 20-22.
“It comes as no surprise that a retailer
built on continuous innovation for almost
50 years is also a leader in energy-efficient
operations,” said Mick Mountz, founder
and CEO of Kiva Systems, in prepared
remarks. “Each Kiva robot autonomously
moves merchandise throughout the
warehouse using only as much electricity
as a laptop computer. Crate and Barrel’s
adoption of Kiva’s innovative order
fulfillment system raises the bar in
customer value while simultaneously
shrinking the carbon footprint required to
deliver it.”
The dynamic product mix spans across
permanent showrooms and a complete
floor of temporaries, offering retailers
excellent variety with signature collections
in the Home Furnishings, Home Accents
and Fine Linens centers (Building 1,
Floors 9-14), the Home, Holiday and
Floral center (Building 1, Floors 16-20)
and within in the world’s largest collection
of Gift product (Building 2 and 2WW).
Ling summarized the project, saying, “I
am confident that the solution engineered
through the Crate and Barrel and
Kiva partnership will allow us to continue
to build on our history of delivering
great value and best-in-class service to
our customer.”
Multi-channel home furnishings retailer
Crate and Barrel was founded in Chicago
in 1962 by Gordon and Carole Segal.
Working directly with European ateliers
and factories to import their products,
Crate and Barrel was among the first to
make contemporary tabletop and
kitchenware designs affordable to
American consumers. Today, Crate and
Barrel is known for exclusive housewares
and furniture designs. The Crate and
Barrel family of brands includes its more
modern off-shoot, CB2 and children’s
home furnishings retailer, The Land of
Nod. Crate and Barrel is a privately held
company owned by the Otto Group of
Hamburg, Germany.
DRY SPICE
Dry Spice is designed to preserve the
flavor of your dry spices, prevent caking
and clumping, extend their shelf life and
save money. Each compact canister
measures 11/16"-tall x 9/16"-wide and
contains a 100 percent natural drying
agent. Dry Spice 'flavor savors' can be
placed right in your spice container for
dry spices year-round. Dry Spice keeps
spices dry and free-flowing, full of flavor
and aroma, without adding chemicals
and can maintain five dry ounces
of spices for up to one year or more.
10 per package.
Dry Spice
[tel] 707-498-9592
[email] ken@dryspice.com
www.dryspice.com
The March event lineup—supporting the
diverse merchandise mix—will feature for
the first time a live webinar broadcast,
hosted by Ethan Allen and Benjamin
Moore. An award-winning forecast, the
Benjamin Moore Color Pulse 2011
provides inspiration through reports and
insight on color trends and influences.
Market attendees will have the opportunity
to view the presentation from a live web
stream in Building 1, Floor 14, 14-D-9 on
March 20 at 2 p.m.
Additional Market event highlights include:
Home Truths
A panel discussion on the changing face of
home design with Atlanta Homes &
Lifestyles Editor Clinton Smith; decorator
and owner of Mrs. Howard and Max & Co.
showrooms in Florida, Georgia and
Alabama, Phoebe Howard and producer
of ThePeakofChic.com design blog
Jennifer Bole
March 20 at 10 a.m.
Building 1, Floor 14, 14-D-9
Social Media 101 Lunch and Learn
With Brent Beatty, social media strategist
for What’s Up Interactive, addressing the
best practices approach to effectively
growing business through channels like
Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and blogs
with interactive discussions, examples of
how businesses are using social media and
tangible steps to engage customers and
drive sales.
March 20 at noon
Building 2, Floor 14, 1405
Bringing Decorative Taste
to the Holiday Table
A presentation by A Legendary Event’s
floral director Jeanna Graham and floral
designer Flemming Patterson using
holiday-themed flowers, décor and tabletop
accessories to bring a seasonal style to
home decorating and entertaining.
March 21 at 11 a.m.
Building 1, Floor 19, 19-A-23
AmericasMart’s Beautiful Bedding
In its second year, displaying luxurious
linens for 2010.
Building 1, Floor 1, lobby corridor
The entire event listing and more details
can be found at the revamped website
www.AmericasMart.com as well as in the
Buyers’ Guide upon arrival to Market.
Forbes to Address
IH+HS Industry Breakfast
Steve Forbes, editor-in-chief of Forbes
magazine and a leading political voice,
will offer his take on the future of the
U.S. economy during the annual Industry
Breakfast at the 2010 International
Home + Housewares Show at Chicago’s
McCormick Place. The breakfast begins at
7 a.m., March 16 in the South Building,
Level 1, Room S100.
executives; ForbesAsia and Forbes editions
in other countries.
In 1996 and 2000, Forbes campaigned for
the Republican nominee for president.
Today, he continues to promote his
political agenda, which includes a flat tax,
medical savings accounts, a new Social
Security system for workers, parental
choice of schools, term limits and a strong
national defense.
In addition to Forbes’ presentation called
“Regrowth of the U.S. Economy,” IHA
Chairman Robert Trudeau, chairman of
Trudeau Corp., will briefly outline the
association’s accomplishments in the past
year and its future objectives.
Under Forbes’ leadership, Forbes Inc. has
launched a variety of publications and
businesses, including ForbesLife, a lifestyle
magazine; ForbesWoman, aimed at female
A
widely
respected
economic
prognosticator, Forbes is a four-time
winner of the Crystal Owl Award, given
to financial journalists whose economic
forecasts for the coming year proved
most accurate.
Tickets for the Industry Breakfast are
$25 per person or $300 for a table of 10
with priority seating. Tickets can be
purchased online at housewares.org or
during the show at the Show Store,
South Building, Level 2.5.
See them in the Harold Imports booth
S1450 at the IH+HS 2010 show.
34
35
PRODUCT TRENDS (cont. from 1)
“We’ll have to look at things differently,” said
Young, “and think about where it (a product)
can live in people’s homes.” This translates
into products that take up less space—
colanders that collapse for storage, bowls that
stack, cutting boards that fold. Additionally, he
said, some products are being designed to
serve multiple functions so there is a reduced
need for products with specific, single purposes.
The aging of the population is turning people
toward transgenerational design, said Young.
Ergonomic grips on kitchen tools are
common these days, Young said, but that is
the easiest part of addressing this need.
Beyond that, he said, will be a return to
simplicity in how products are designed and
function. The falling price of electronics has
made it possible to make many items
programmable and highly functioning, yet
Young said the counter to that is to make
some products less complicated.
“A lot of consumers don’t want that level of
detail,” he explained. “And companies can
address that and make it a point of difference.”
As an example, Young pointed to a kitchen
timer his company worked on for OXO. While
at the outset the idea was to make it high-tech,
in the end they produced a traditional egg-timer
style product that had more of a nostalgic feel.
Going green has certainly been a focus, said
Young, although its adoption has been hurt
somewhat by the downturn in the economy.
Still, he said, “people will start to see it isn’t
an option, or just fashionable” but rather a
focus for the long term. Increased
understanding and more legislation aimed at
producing greener products will also help,
he said. And, it ties in with the focus on
people’s health, and using materials that won’t
hurt them or the planet, such as BPA-free
products. What began as a campaign to
remove BPA from toys, he said, has now
moved into housewares with BPA-free water
bottles for adults. There is also a move back
toward replacing plastic with glass, he said.
Of course, the state of the economy is a major
influence on what happens at home, said
Young. Cooking at home continues to be a
trend, with the kitchen and the dining room
coming back as the hub of the home. “With
that,” he said, “comes the greater trend toward
wanting what we had as kids.”
Trends and color go together, and Young said
color “is always an interesting topic. For
housewares, it’s easier to be color-focused
because there’s a quicker turnaround.” The
announcement of the top colors for the
season—such as turquoise for 2010—can be
seen in kitchenware and housewares products
that come onto the market during that year,
just as in fashion.
“If we’re trying to hit people demographically
or economically,” said Young, “we can target
them through color and surfaces,” such as
stainless steel which is important to customers
right now.
Another trend, more specific to the industry
itself, said Young, is the increased pressure to
get products to market faster—and the ability
to do it. He said manufacturers could approach
this in two ways: Produce more very quickly, but
take the risk of having more failures, or think
more strategically about what clients—retailers
and consumers—really want. He said
Americans are used to having so many options,
but there will be a change to more focused
approaches to bringing goods to market.
In the past, companies may have focused on
offering goods that meet low-, middle- and
high-income groups with good, better and
best products. But that’s not enough, said
Young. The approach needs to be in the
context of what each product does for the end
user, rather than only being about price or
some other factor.
Young said when he did a project for a
garbage disposal brand, horsepower separated
the products. But no one could easily
determine why it was important to buy the
one with more horsepower just based on the
numbers. Instead, he said, it needed to be
translated into a story about performance:
One could dispose of vegetable peelings,
while the most powerful could handle chicken
bones. “It’s important to put it in the context
of what it does,” he said.
Finally, noted Young, even though trends can
be predictors of where product design is
headed and what people should be focused
on, it’s significant not to underestimate the
power of whimsy, and that people can fall in
love with a product just because of its quirky
characteristics. “In a category such as this, it’s
important,” he said.
TAKEYA GLASS WATER BOTTLES
Takeya debuts two fashionable water
bottles, Classic and Modern. The water
bottles feature wide mouths for easy
drinking, twist caps that are both airtight
and leak-proof, sturdy loops for attaching
to belts, gym bags and backpacks, and
unique silicone jackets that provide a soft
grip and protection for the glass bottles.
The jackets feature see-through windows
for checking liquid levels. The Classic is
available in a 22.5-ounce size and a 16.5ounce version in fuchsia, purple, green,
blue and black. The Modern is available
in a 25-ounce size and a 16-ounce size
and is available in Ice Green, Ice Pink, Ice
Blue, Black Mist and Natural. The bottles
and the jacket are dishwasher-safe.
Takeya
[tel] 714-374-9900
www.takeyausa.com
36
37
OUTDOORS (cont. from 1)
“I think given the state of the economy,
even though there’s definitely a progression
toward positive, (outdoor living) is
entertaining, something cool to serve on,
something cool to light with. I would say
it has to do with tabletop, creating a theme
where you can kick back and relax with
friends and family outside,” said Nancy
Michael, director of marketing with TAG.
TAG offers comprehensive product lines
from decorative tabletop pieces to
serveware and dishware.
“Additionally, items that make life easier
are important.”
Zak Designs expanded its product line to
include serveware, drinkware and party
accessories to accommodate consumers’
growing interest in outdoor living.
“Whether they eat in the kitchen, on the
patio or in the backyard, they want
products that they can take with them.
These consumers are looking for
dinnerware that’s casual without being
common and durable without being dull,”
said Zakheim.
Cox Culinary Emporium provides ease to
consumers with compartmentalized
serveware and drinkware. “What it allows
people to do is carry food and drink in one
dish while having one hand free,” Cox
said. “Everything is contained within the
dish so it’s well-balanced, functional,
compartmentalized, and allows you to walk
around mingling and having a good time
without being stuck in one spot in order
to enjoy your guests, food and drink.”
The material of the product influences its
design and functionality. The majority of
products from Zak Designs are made from
melamine and acrylic materials. Zakheim
described them as extremely durable
materials and well-suited for outdoor
living. “Melamine offers the most color
versatility of any plastic, and acrylic has the
advantage of being transparent. So
typically, dinnerware, serveware and
kitchen prep products are made from
melamine, while drinkware is usually made
from some type of acrylic.”
Hoffine also wanted to offer a product that
was functional with an emphasis on food
safety. She and her husband invented the
Chill Out & About as a way to make
outdoor entertaining easier and safer. As
frequent hosts of outdoor gatherings, they
often worried about chilled foods becoming
too warm outdoors and guests falling ill
from foods kept at unsafe temperatures.
“This product was invented for us to help
us enjoy our outdoor living, to help the
time spent outdoors be more enjoyable,
more relaxing and safer. I think people who
are purchasing our product are thinking
the same way.” The Chill Out & About
keeps food chilled, and thus safer, for hours
longer than traditional serving dishes.
However, other suppliers prefer highquality polymers, as they find these plastics
to be less restrictive than melamine and
acrylic. Tiffany Hoffine, CEO of The
Sundance Co. and co-inventor of the Chill
Out & About and Jennifer Bement,
marketing manager for Tervis Tumblers,
said acrylic shatters easier. Lanita Cox,
founder and owner of Cox Culinary
Emporium, said melamine can be
restrictive because it is only top-shelf
dishwasher safe.
Suppliers agree the functionality of a
product is critical, from how it can make
outdoor entertaining easier to its ability to
be used again and again. “It would appear
that consumers are looking for items for
their outdoor spaces that are as functional
as they are appealing,” said Bement.
New outdoor living products are designed
with ease of entertaining in mind, products
to encourage more fun, less worry and
greater convenience for a host. “More and
more, it’s moving from inside the home to
the outside and trying to duplicate that
with more functionality and long-lasting
performance. I want to raise my level of
enjoyment and decrease my level of stress
while I’m throwing these parties,” said Cox.
Being able to reuse a product also increases
the functionality and appeal for today’s
environmentally conscious consumer. Cox
said consumers demand green solutions
and outdoor living products are part of
those solutions. Reusable products present
consumers with an eco-friendly alternative
to the usual throwaway paper plates and
plasticware. “People don’t want to have an
adverse impact on nature, so they’re
looking for products that they can use,
wash and reuse instead of plates, cups and
flatware that they use once and throw
away,” Zakheim said.
Reuse extends across other seasons and
Lanita Ware Dinnerware from Cox Culinary Emporium
38
for other purposes. Many of the
available products easily go from
outdoor to indoor entertaining.
Suppliers agree presenting products as
an everyday lifestyle piece and clearly
demonstrating multiple uses for a
single product enhances its potential to
consumers.
Though Chill Out & About was an
idea to ease outdoor entertaining for
Hoffine, it also simplifies indoor
entertaining. “If you’re throwing a
party in January for the big game, it
might be 75ºF in your house, which
is more than (a safe) 40ºF,” Hoffine
said. “It doesn’t take long at all for
food to rise above 40ºF when it’s in
the mid-70s in your house. Cold
food is just as important in January
as it is in August.”
Tervis Tumblers are convenient, fun
party glasses, ideal during a summer
barbecue, but Bement said the tumblers are
a “24/7/365 product.” Tervis Tumblers
insulate hot and cold drinks, resist
condensation, are shatterproof and ideal for
outdoor entertaining, she said. The
tumblers are often showcased in stores as
party favors filled with candy or with a
coffee display to highlight its versatility.
Travel lids also turn the tumbler into a
convenient, on-the-go product.
New design trends for outdoor living
products are geared toward happy colors,
said suppliers. The consensus is that colors
and patterns for this summer and into
2011 will focus on consumers’ desire for
cheery, bright colors. “People are really
trending toward bold, bright, fun colors
that liven up homes and parties,” said
Zakheim. “With so much bad news on
the TV, people want a little cheeriness in
their homes and on their table.”
“We do a lot of trend-watching across all
mediums during our product development
period and lately have been seeing lots of
bold, bright colors reminiscent of ’80s pop
colors,” said Bement. “As far as patterns are
concerned, we have been noticing a lot of
geometric patterns, but also the meshing
of the dichotomy between hard-edge
geometrics and designs with a more
organic flow—a way to denote the mixing
of industry and nature.”
The Sundance Co. and Cox Culinary will
Citrus Lifestyle Juicers from Zak Designs
Ter vis Tumbler
debut new color lines this month. The
Sundance Co. is featuring gold and a citrus
orange—colors Hoffine said will be popular
in spring and summer. Cox Culinary will
also show off a new color line that includes
turquoise, persimmon and olive.
Suppliers offered a few suggestions on how
retailers can maximize the potential of the
outdoor living category. “In my opinion,
I think it’s really about how they set their
display,” said Michael of TAG. “So many
people just want to understand it when
they see it. A lot of it is the presentation.
The more they can create the lifestyle
setting, the more they can help the
consumer understand how to set it, where
to use it.” TAG’s products are told
through cohesive stories and themes,
designed to help the retailer and consumer
understand the product line, its uses and
how each piece works within a whole
collection. The Sundance Co. offers a
DVD to retailers upon request that
Hoffine said helps consumers visualize
themselves using the product.
“As more attention is being raised about
the environment, and it becomes more
front-of-mind for people around the world,
the desire to spend more time outside
increases,” said Zakheim. “As the demand
for products that fit this way of life
increases, so has the market. What once
was a seasonal business has now become a
legitimate, everyday opportunity.”
Chill Out & About fron The Sundance Co.
39
GLASTOR GLASS
STORAGE CONTAINERS
Tribest Corp. presents Glastor Airtight
Glass Storage Containers. The
containers feature a rubber seal and
snap-to-lock lids that prevent air from
entering the container during storage.
The containers are made of heavyduty tempered glass, and the lids are
BPA-free. They are available in fourpiece sets of round, square and
rectangular containers as well as
individually in various shapes and sizes.
Tribest Corp.
[tel] 888-254-7336
www.tribest.com
LINDEN SWEDEN’S
TULIP SPICE GRINDER
The Tulip Spice Grinder is back,
featuring the CrushGrind ceramic
grinding mechanism. Designed to
grind dried spices and herbs, rock salt,
peppercorn
and
many
seeds
including flax seed, the spice wheel
adjusts easily to grind from coarse to
fine. The Tulip Spice Grinder is an ideal
size for spices and herbs; it stands
5 inches tall and
holds about
2 ounces. The Tulip
Spice Grinder
grinds upside
down, leaving no
mess on the table
or counter. It is easy
to clean and fills with
little effort; just twist
off the grinder cap
that exposes the
large mouth
spice jar for easy
fills and refills.
Gift-boxed
and
available
in
four
colors: sage green, cranberry red,
black and white.
Linden Sweden Inc.
[tel] 952-465-0052
www.lindensweden.com
ANOLON NOUVELLE
COPPER COOKWARE
Anolon recently introduced its patented
Nouvelle Copper Cookware, which
incorporates copper in a new and
innovative manner. Each piece in the
new cookware collection, which is
constructed of heavy gauge hardanodized features a thick base of
stainless clad aluminum enhanced by a
layer of copper. This innovation in hardanodized cookware increases a pan’s
responsiveness to heat, and eliminates
hot spots. Anolon Nouvelle Copper
Cookware features a durable nonstick
coating that releases food easily. Its
patented design has an attractive tulipshape body that’s accented with a dark,
polished hard-anodized exterior. Hollowcore, cast stainless steel handles remain
cool to the touch during most stovetop
use, and are securely fastened with rivets
that lie flush within the interior of the pan
for easy cleaning. The new collection
offers close-fitting, highly polished stainless
steel lids. Anolon Nouvelle Copper
Cookware is offered in both a 10-piece
set and in open stock.
Suggested Retail Prices: $39.99 -399.99
Meyer Corp./Analon
[tel] 800-326-3933
www.meyer.com
40
{ headlines }
Melitta, Hamilton Beach Enter Into Sub-License Agreement
to Launch Coffee, Hot Beverage Appliances
Melitta North America Inc., known for its
premium line of coffee and coffee filters, has
entered into a multi-year sub-license and
distribution agreement with Hamilton Beach
Brands Inc., a leader in small kitchen
appliances, to create a unique line of coffee
and hot beverage appliances. The agreement
will allow Hamilton Beach to develop,
market and sell Melitta-branded appliances
throughout the United States, Mexico and
the Caribbean. Product launch is currently
planned for early this year.
“Melitta has a long and rich history of
providing consumers with premium coffees
and coffee filters of the highest quality. As
a company, quality is our No. 1 objective,”
said Chris Hillman, vice president of
marketing, Melitta USA, in prepared
remarks. “We chose Hamilton Beach to be
our partner on our electrics business because
they too have a strong focus on quality and
the consumer. In addition, our corporate
cultures are quite similar. We look forward
to a long and fruitful relationship with
Hamilton Beach.”
“We are pleased to have the Melitta brand
as a license partner and believe
our collaboration will leverage Melitta’s
existing expertise and brand assets. Melitta
has clearly established itself as a leader in
premium coffee products, is the world’s largest
supplier of coffee filters and we are thrilled
to be working closely with them to develop
a line of coffee and hot beverage appliances,”
said Scott Tidey, vice president, North
America sales and marketing, Hamilton
Beach Brands, through a prepared statement.
“We look forward to providing appliances
that match the quality, tradition and passion
Melitta is known for around the world.”
Melitta founded in 1908 by Melitta Bentz,
after receiving a patent for her two-part
coffee-filtering system of a filter and filtration
paper. The filter system was the first to
successfully remove coffee residue in the
brewing process, revolutionizing the way
coffee was brewed. Melitta USA Inc., part
of the privately held Melitta Group in
Minden, Germany, is headquartered here.
Hamilton Beach Brands is a leading designer,
marketer and distributor of small electric
household appliances, as well as commercial
products for restaurants, bars and hotels.
Headquartered in Richmond, Va., Hamilton
Beach Brands is a wholly owned subsidiary
of NACCO Industries Inc.
MICROPLANE PARMESAN GRATER
Microplane introduces the Gourmet
Parmesan Grater. The new grater
features a unique, patent-pending “star”
pattern blade, which transforms a
chunk of hard cheese, such as
parmesan, into a mass of finely grated
cheese. The versatile Gourmet
Parmesan Grater also excels in grating
other hard ingredients, such as
chocolate and coconut. It features the
company’s extraordinarily sharp, madein-America stainless steel blades, a softgrip handle in charcoal black and a
non-slip end piece for added stability
when grating vertically on a cutting
board, plate or inside bowl. The nonclogging, dishwasher-safe Gourmet
Parmesan Grater comes with a
transparent protective cover.
Microplane
[tel] 800-555-2767
www.microplane.com
41
{ headlines }
AsSeenOnTVUS.com Launches
As Seen On TV Shopping Website
AsSeenOnTVUS.com announced the
launch of its new shopping website
dedicated to As Seen On TV products. It
is designed to give consumers a quick
online destination to find favorite products
seen on infomercials.
The website features a simple-to-use
navigation structure that categorizes each
product.
This
allows shoppers to
quickly find a
certain As Seen
On TV product.
The categories
range from fitness
products
and
kitchen
and
cookware to pet
products
and
household items
and more. Indepth information is provided on each
product to help consumers with purchasing
decisions. The two pages of kitchen and
cookware items include the Perfect Brownie
Pan, Ronco pasta maker and rotisserie,
Always Fresh containers and the Butterball
Turkey Fryer.
“Our goal is to be a premiere online
destination for consumers when it comes to
finding As Seen On TV products,” stated
Jonathon
Lee,
co-founder
of
asseenontvus.com, in a prepared statement.
“Oftentimes someone might see an
infomercial on TV, which draws their
interest but not enough to make purchase
at that time. However, later on a situation
arises where they recall how that product
might be useful. We feel that our website
will quickly help
those
individuals
find what they are
looking for since
often they may not
remember the name
of the product.
“In addition, our
website provides an
easily solution for
comparing similar
As Seen On TV
products from different companies,” Lee
continued. “Visitors can quickly compare
different products and the terms of the
offers without having to navigate through
different websites.”
Currently AsSeenOnTVUS.com features
more than 300 As Seen On TV products,
and new products are being added almost
daily to the site.
New Company Creates Way to
Help With Parents’ Artwork Guilt
Little Ones Showcase introduces a broad
line of products to display and store kids’
artwork and more at this year’s International
Housewares Show, booth N8130, in
Chicago March 14-16, 2010.
Parents are always in a bind as to what to
do with children’s artwork and the supplies
it takes to create those masterpieces. Faced
with throwing art away, parents feel guilty,
display is limited to the refrigerator and
storage is an issue because kids’ art seems
to multiply on a daily basis.
Little Ones Showcase has created a line of
products to help parents create a gallery to
display and store kids’ artwork and treasures.
Art Show: an easy-to-install cable system
that comes with two mounting brackets,
10 hanging clips and 11 feet of line. The
wall brackets can be installed with the
included options such as suction cups on
glass or any smooth non-porous surface,
adhesive, wall anchor in drywall or just
using a screw. The Art Show allows kids
and parents to constantly rotate their gallery
as new art comes home. $9.95 retail.
Art Tape: a simple way to put art anywhere
in the home. Kids can put their art up any
place without fear of damaging delicate
surfaces. $1.99 retail.
Art Save: gives parents a great way to
42
Design Awards Honor
Best Products of the Year
The Housewares Design Awards announced
the Best of the Best Awards for the bestdesigned housewares products of the year at
its seventh annual presentation ceremony at
the New York Marriott Marquis in Times
Square on Feb. 4.
The Collapsible Salad Spinner from
Progressive International Corp. won the Best
of the Best Gold Award. The Best of the Best
Silver went to the Chicago Metallic Lasagna
Trio from Focus Products Group LLC. Nellie’s
PVC-Free Dryerballs from Batten Industries
won the Best of the Best Bronze Award.
Thirteen Best in Category Awards were
also named:
• Cook and Bakeware: Chicago Metallic
Lasagna Trio
• Cooking Electrics: Crock-Pot Trio
Cook and Serve from Jarden
Consumer Solutions
• Cutlery: Twin Profection 8-Inch Chef ’s
Knife from Zwilling J.A. Henckels
• Floor Care Electrics: UltraSilencer
Green from Electrolux
• Food Preparation Electrics:
Ninja Master Prep Pro Food and
Drink Maker from Euro-Pro Corp.
• Furniture: Innobella Destiny Table &
Chair Collection from Meco Corp.
• Home Environment Electrics:
AirTamer Air Purifier A710 from
FilterStream Inc.
• Home Organization, Laundry &
Non-Electrics Cleaning: Nellie’s
PVC-Free Dryerballs
• Kitchen Hand Tools: Pro Tongs from
iSi North America Inc.
• Kitchenware and Barware:
Progressive Collapsible Salad Spinner
• Lighting, Home Décor and Outdoor
Living: RainStore Rainwater
Collection System from NextLife
• Personal Care, Health and
Garment Care: Magnifying MediGrip Bottle Cap Remover from
Jokari/U.S. Inc.
• Tabletop: 360-Degree Grinder from
Lifetime Brands Inc.
The eco-friendly winners of the Green House
Design Award were Nellie’s PVC-Free
Dryerballs, UltraSilencer Green and
RainStore Rainwater Collection System.
An independent judging panel selected
products based on superior design, appearance,
function and originality. The Housewares
Design Awards are presented by HomeWorld
Business, with educational support from the
International Housewares Association and
sponsorship by DuPont Teflon and the New
York International Gift Fair. Products judged
were introduced to the U.S. market between
Oct. 1, 2008 and Sept. 30, 2009. No prototypes
were allowed. For more information, visit
www.housewaresdesignawards.com.
archive artwork with a large portfolio case
that kids can personalize by coloring, adding
specifics on the school year, teacher and
age, adding a picture and more. $9.95 retail.
Art Stand: provides a unique way to
frame and display a single piece of art.
8 ½"x11" display area is easy to load. A fun
design creates a special place to show off
those special pieces. Also mounts on
refrigerator or glass with suction cups
provided. $7.95 retail.
Art Frame: an inflatable frame for displaying
art on a wall or table. Lightweight and easy
to blow up, Art Frame frames the most
valuable of kids' art. $5.95 retail.
Art Bucket: a way to store and carry crayons,
pencils, scissors, markers, rulers and more in
this all-in-one carry bucket. The display
packaging becomes the bucket to support
the pocket system. Carry handle and heavy
duty canvas create the best way to keep art
supplies organized. $9.95 retail.
fusionbrands Wins Federal Patent
Lawsuit Protecting PoachPod
Little Ones Showcase products were born
from founders Annie and Kevin Shaha’s
experience with twin girls and the onslaught
of art that comes home on a daily basis.
fusionbrands, creators and sellers of the
original silicone floating egg-poacher
known as the PoachPod, obtained
judgment against a retailer and its
supplier for intellectual property
infringement. The federal suit charged an
established retailer and its supplier with
patent infringement and advertising
injuries for selling and advertising
counterfeit products while unlawfully using
the trademarked name PoachPod.
For more information, call 877-347-6090,
email kshaha@littleonesshowcase.com,
visit www.littleonesshowcase.com or stop
by booth N8130.
“We will not tolerate knock-offs and imitations
of any our products or our trade names by
anyone,” said fusionbrands co-founder Kraigh
Stewart in a prepared statement. “We will
aggressively pursue infringers,” said Stewart.
The company declined to name the retailer
and supplier or the terms of the judgment.
The PoachPod is a patented product that
continues to hold its position as the market
leader in silicone poaching products. The
product has won multiple national and
international design awards and has been
featured in national and international
publications and media outlets.
fusionbrands offers playful, innovative
cooking utensils, ranging from vertical ice
cube trays to wearable cooking tongs.
43
FISSLER’S SOLEA COOKWARE
Fissler introduces Solea, a premium
cookware line made in Germany. The
line offers many new design features and
functions, including extra large, stay-cool
stainless steel handles; a rimless
concave glass lid that can be hooked
anywhere on the rim of the pot; a
dripless pouring rim and measuring scale
inside each brushed metal pot; conical
pot bodies that stack without scratching
or wedging; and a flat all-stove base
that heats food quickly and evenly and
is guaranteed not to warp.
Suggested Retail Price:
$155-280 for open-stock pieces
Fissler USA
[tel] 888-347-7537
www.fisslerusa.com
KUHN RIKON’S
DECORATING BOTTLES
Kuhn Rikon introduces a collection of
decorating bottles, including the
Squeeze Bottle with No. 6 Basket Weave
Tip in red, Squeeze Bottle with No. 5 Star
Tip in orange and Squirt Bottle with
No. 1 Round Tip in red. All bottles are
made of soft, transparent food-safe
plastic, with stainless steel tip for
durability and easy clean-up. Also new
is the Two Chamber Squirt Bottle. This fun
and functional two-chamber bottle
expands the home baker’s possibilities
when decorating baked goods by
dispensing two separate flavors or colors
of soft icing from one bottle.
Suggested Retail Price: $5-7
Kuhn Rikon
[tel] 800-662-5882
www.kuhnrikon.com
JURA-CAPRESSO’S
JURA CUP WARMER
The Jura Cup Warmer, a freestanding
countertop unit that warms coffee cups
to the ideal temperature, is a must-have
accessory for coffee lovers. The Jura
Cup Warmer features two individually
heated cup drawers with integrated
temperature controls. Consumers can
program the number of minutes the
drawers will be heated, as well as
heating time for each drawer. An
automatic on/off setting adds
convenience and energy savings. The
Cup Warmer combines a slim, elegant
profile with durable practicality. The front
and back panels are constructed of
sturdy black plastic and the side panels
of structured transparent plastic. The
frame is made of stainless steel for
durability. It has the capacity to hold
three cappuccino cups, four coffee
cups and five espresso cups.
Jura-Capresso
[tel] 800-767-3554
www.capresso.com
44
Trade Show Buzz
A monthly update on the goings-on at industry-related shows
Prowein 2010
Prowein 2010 exhibitors’ supporting event
program set.
The supporting event program of the
exhibitors at ProWein 2010, International
Trade Fair Wines and Spirits, will
include more than 200 informative, multifaceted and up-to-date seminars, tastings
and lectures—more than ever before at
any ProWein staging. The speakers will
be renowned sommeliers, international
trade journalists and leading industry
experts. All events will take place at the
exhibitors' booths.
The supporting program at ProWein
2010 will be just as diversified as the
trade fair itself. Numerous exhibitors will
offer moderated tastings of wines from
all of the world’s relevant growing
regions, including Israel, the Czech
Republic, Moldavia and Slovenia. Topics
such as terroir, climate and innovative
concepts will be the focus at the seminars
from the five wine-growing regions
Argentina, California, Chile, New Zealand
and South Africa who will exhibit jointly
with the title “Down to Earth” for the first
time at ProWein 2010.
ProWein 2010 will be held from
March 21- 23, 2010 at the fairgrounds in
Düsseldorf, Germany.
by cupping—thoroughly evaluating six
distinct attributes of the competitors’ coffee
samples, including fragrance, aroma,
taste, flavor, aftertaste and body. The
Coffees of the Year title is arguably the
most prestigious honor a coffee producer
can receive.
Iron Chefs headline the line-up of celebrity
chefs at 2010 International Home +
Housewares Show
Five of the chefs featured on the Food
Network’s “Iron Chef America” will
showcase their culinary skills in the
Cooking Theater during the 2010
March 14-16 at Chicago’s McCormick
Place. Heading the line-up of celebrity
chefs will be Mario Batali, Cat Cora,
Masaharu Morimoto, Michael Symon and
Jose Garces, the newest Iron Chef.
The Cooking Theater is the focal point of
the Gourmet Home + Food District. On
hand will be exhibitors of specialty and
gourmet treats and the tools used to
prepare them. GOHO also features the
NASF T Specialty Food Marketplace
and
Restaurant
Row,
featuring
representatives from 30 of Chicago’s most
famous culinary establishments.
Specialty Coffee Association
of America Expo
Specialty Coffee Association of America
Expo opens in Anaheim, Calif. in April.
Coffee producing, roasting, grinding,
brewing and serving will all be on display
in Southern California April 15-18 at the
Specialty Coffee Association of America
Expo in Anaheim.
Thousands of coffee professionals from
more than 40 countries will converge at the
Anaheim Convention Center to focus on
specialty coffee, sustaining the industry
and farmer’s livelihoods, and the latest and
most innovative trends and products in
the coffee marketplace.
At the SCAA Exposition, the coffee
industry’s premier annual event, two highly
anticipated contests take place: the United
States Barista Championship and the
Roasters Guild Coffees of the Year
Competition. At the USBC, the country’s
preeminent baristas showcase their skills
and professionalism—preparing and
serving 12 orders—in hopes of obtaining
the championship title that propels them
from coffeehouse hopeful to industry
celebrity. The winner moves on to the
2010 World Barista Championship in
London next June. At the Coffees of the
Year Competition, certified SCAA judges
evaluate and rank the world’s finest
specialty coffees from around the globe
45
guest
column
Ethnic Cooking Becomes Everyday
Cooking in Changing America
By Ana Garcia and Elsie Ramos
The changing face of America, the trend
toward cooking at home and a desire to
“cook the real deal,” are the most important
emerging ethnic cooking trends.
Ethnic cooking trends don’t emerge in a
vacuum. They are illustrative of what is
happening in our world. There are now
more Latinos in the United States than
people in Canada. The explosion in the
number of U.S. Hispanic consumers is
heating up the demand for authentic Latin
cuisine and dramatically influencing what
all Americans are cooking and eating.
Culinary fare ranging from tortillas,
cilantro and salsa are no longer considered
exotic in mainstream American culture
thanks to the culinary influence of the
Hispanic population.
The introduction of spices and seasonings
like saffron, sofrito and cilantro entice
even some of the most well-known chefs.
Tapas bars have also been essential in
introducing “Latino” to diners, with the
combination of tasty Latin delicacies in a
festive environment. The Latin population
has increased and more restaurants and
fast food venues have opened. They serve
some of the most traditional Latin dishes
for all to taste. Home cooks are bringing
these exciting new flavors home as part of
their cooking repertoire.
Another key in ethnic cooking is the trend
towards cooking at home. More and more
Americans are re-discovering the joys of
a family meal. Preparing meals at home
is not only a good choice for the
challenging economy, but a great way to
reconnect with the family over the kitchen
table. Recipes of all sorts are readily
available online, on television or through
cookbooks, and with the changing face of
America, there is a desire to try new
things. Authentic Latin cuisine is exotic
and interesting so families will experiment
and try out new dishes. When cooking
more at home, you need an extensive
repertoire to keep things fresh and new.
In a back-to-basics economy perhaps it is
natural to return to basic ingredients. This
isn’t about retro, or comfort food or even
cost. It’s about determining the essentials
and stocking your pantry accordingly. It is
about pure, simple, clean and sustainable.
Perhaps this is a real shift from
convenience foods to scratch cooking, now
that we have more time than money and
46
more food knowledge.
When guests partake in a Mexican
culinary vacation package at La Villa
Bonita, they come with one uniting
desire—to cook authentic Mexican
cuisine. Their familiarity with Mexico
through tourism has produced a curiosity
about authentic Mexican cuisine. Many
have experienced Tex-Mex cuisine and are
beginning to understand that there is a
whole new world of traditional Mexican
dishes they have not tasted.
So while cooks are keeping it real, they’ll
also be redefining what the staples are in
many kitchens. Many have already made a
substantial shift in how they shop, prepare
food and eat, and this isn’t expected to
change even if the economy improves. We
are done with excess, and ready to focus
more on basics.
IMUSA sales support this trend. IMUSA
is experiencing tremendous growth by
filling a void in the marketplace with
its affordable Hispanic housewares
products including cookware, gadgets,
bakeware, tabletop goods, cleaning
products and kitchen electrics. Favored
by homemakers throughout South,
Central and most recently, North
America, IMUSA is the global leader of
the Hispanic housewares market.
Chefs Ana Garcia
and Elsie Ramos are
ethnic cooking experts
who are also part
of IMUSA’s Chef
Program. Designed
to showcase the
varied yet interrelated characteristics
of Latin cuisine,
The IMUSA Chef
Program is the first
of its kind to showcase
the best chefs from the
world of Latin
cooking. Chef Ramos
was a finalist with
Gordon Ramsey on
Fox’s Hell’s Kitchen
series, and authored
the cookbook, Elsie’s
Turkey Tacos and
Arroz con Pollo. Chef Garcia is the owner and
operator of La Villa Bonita Cooking School and
Culinary Hotel in Tepoztlan, Mexico.
2010 TRADE SHOW CALENDAR
MARCH 2010
APRIL 2010
7-10 Montreal Gift Show
Place Bonaventure
Montreal, Quebec, Canada, 888-823-7469
www.montrealgiftshow.com
13-16 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
14-16 International Home
& Housewares Show
McCormick Place
Chicago, IL, 847-692-0109
www.housewares.org
17-22 International Home
Furnishings Market
High Point, NC, 336-869-1000
www.ihfc.com
14-16 Spring Gift Show
LA Mart
Los Angeles, CA, 800-LAMART4
www.lamart.com
21-24 Boston Gift Show
Boston Convention & Exhibition Center
Boston, MA, 800-272-SHOW
www.bostongiftshow.com
25-28 Dallas Total Home & Gift Market
Dallas Market Center
Dallas, TX, 800-DAL-MKTS
www.dallasmarketcenter.com
MAY 2010
15-18 International Contemporary
Furniture Fair
Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
New York, NY, 800-272-SHOW
www.icff.com
JUNE 2010
8-10 Licensing International Expo
Las Vegas, NV, 212-951-6612
www.licensingexpo.com
A D V E R T I S E R
COMPANY
I N D E X
H+HS BOOTH*
PAGE
Accusharp Knife Sharpeners
—
43
Burton McCall Ltd.
—
32
Danesco
—
5
Dry Spice
HIC 51450
43
Dydacomp
—
35
Eades Appliance Technology
Edgecraft
S3667
16
S1784, L11947
21
Escali
S2160
29
Essenergy
L11035
43
Fissler USA
S3012
47
Flirty Aprons
—
39
fusionbrands
S1450
35
Highwave Inc.
S1734
4
The Homer Laughlin China Company
S2003
9
Howard Naturals
—
39
IMUSA
S4222
26
Kitchen Resource
L12737
33
Kyocera Advanced Ceramics
S1745
22
Lancaster Colony
S3225
32
Linden Sweden
S1264
6
Mastrad, Inc.
S1240
15
Maverick Industries
S1425
36
Messermeister
S1826
19
Omega Products
L12129
48
—
11
S1114
29
Parrish’s Cake Decorating Supplies
Pragotrade Inc.
Prodyne
S957
7
R.S.V.P. International
S1963
45
Reco International Corp.
—
37
Reisenthel Accessories
N8113
45
Sante Cookware
S4015
40
SCI Scandicrafts
S2135
29
Signature Housewares
S1062
17
Spice Ratchet
S1450
30
Starfrit
S462
13
Swissmar
S3628
27
Tabletops Unlimited
S1810
2
Taylor Precision Products
L12326
35
Tervis Tumbler Company
Tribest
—
37
L13118
20, 39
YouCopia Products
S2671
41
Zak Designs
S2269
44
* Booth number subject to change. Visit www.housewares.org for updated listings.
47

March 2010 - Oser Communications Group

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