PHPR 01 02

M
O
N
E
S
S
E
N
H
E
A
R
T
H
S
Y
S
T
E
M
S
T
H
E
H
A
M
M
O
C
K
S
O
U
R
C
E
www. peni ns ul a- medi a. com
L
E
N
N
O
X
H
E
A
R
T
H
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
S
T
H
E
C
O
M
P
A
N
I
O
N
G
R
O
U
P
Keeping you warm and safe for over 40 years.
If youre looking for the ultimate in replace glass, youve found it. SCHOTT ROBAX

glass-ceramic is a product of over 40 years of engineering expertise and the most
cutting-edge glass technology. With its high thermal resistance it can withstand even
the highest temperatures without breaking while still evenly radiating heat throughout
the room, proving once and for all that its the only glass that belongs between re
and your family.
Look for the Warm & Safe promise only on
products with SCHOTT ROBAX
glass-ceramic.
www.schottrobax.com
SCHOTT ROBAX
is a registered trademark of SCHOTT AG.

Photography courtesy of FIAMMA Argentina.
Circle Reader Service No. 2
4 Patio & Hearth Products Report January/February 2011
22
74
66
J A NUA R Y / F E B R UA R Y 2 0 1 1 VO L UME 6 , NUMB E R 1
ON THE COVER LENNOX HEARTH PRODUCTS
8 GUEST EDITORIAL CAUSE MARKETING
BY DAVID BIBER
The founder of Two Guys Grilling, L.L.C., explains how
cause marketing can be a powerful promotional tool for
specialty retailers in the outdoor-living industry.
16 CORPORATE PROFILE ENERVEX IS UNVEILED
BY CHERYL DANGEL CULLEN
Exhausto Inc., one of the leading suppliers of ventilation and
exhaust systems, became ENERVEX on January 1, 2011.
18 SPOTLIGHT CHIC CHOICES
A new generation of contemporary fireplaces incorporates
a wide range of designs and tastes.
22 MARKETING MANEUVERS WICKER AND MORE
BY KIMBERLY RODGERS
Sunshine Wicker and Design offers ample options in deep
seating, lounging, and dining for the outdoor room.
24 HIGH-QUALITY, FASHION-FORWARD
DESIGNS ATTRACT CONSUMERS
BY KIMBERLY RODGERS
Erwin & Sons premium-quality products and superior
customer service keep customers coming back.
26 HEARTH RETAILER PROFILE A HOT SPOT
BY SHARON SANDERS
The Fireplace Center & Patio Shop is one of the largest and
best known fireplace and patio retailers in Canada.
28 HITZERS HEATERS FEATURE AMISH CRAFTSMANSHIP
BY SHARON SANDERS
Hitzers handtooled wood and coal stoves are known
throughout the industry for being durable and attractive.
30 OUTDOOR GRILLING RETAILER PROFILE TEAMING UP
BY KIMBERLY RODGERS
By joining forces, two Tucson entrepreneurs created a
successful business that has exceeded their expectations.
32 GIVING OUTDOOR FIREPLACES A CUSTOM LOOK
BY KIMBERLY RODGERS
Stone Age Manufacturing provides outdoor masonry
fireplaces, in easy-to-assemble kits, at a competitive price.
36 SHOWROOM SHOWCASE FAMILY TIES
BY SHARON SANDERS
Sales increased dramatically when this fourth-generation
retailer added casual furniture to its product mix.
38 WHATS UNDERFOOT MATTERS TO COURISTAN
BY SHARON SANDERS
Couristan offers high-quality, weather-resistant rugs that
pull together all the elements of an outdoor room.
40 AS I SEE IT PASSION EQUALS PROFIT
BY SHARON SANDERS
Bobby Brennan, cofounder and president of Kamado Joe,
explains how his fledgling ceramic-grill company has grown
so quickly.
42 MY TURN LEADING THE WAY
BY SHARON SANDERS
Miles Industries introduced the gas fireplace in Vancouver
in the early 1980s, and its Valor brand remains popular
throughout North America today.
46 PRODUCT INNOVATION SEVENTY-EIGHT YEARS YOUNG
Empire Comfort Systems might be an old company, but it
uses new vehicles, such as social media, to reach customers.
48 LAST WORD BRANCHING OUT
Napoleon, known for its fireplaces and grills, has added a
casual-furniture line to its product offerings.
departments
6 SEAHAWKS
Publishers Viewpoint and Editors Message
10 INDUSTRY NEWS
Edited by Kris Kyes
50 PRODUCT PROFILES
82 PRODUCT PROFILES DIRECTORY
82 AD INDEX
features
contents
58
72
Follow us on Twitter: @patiohearth
Life Begins Outdoors.
To become an Agio Retailer, call 888.997.7623 or contact us at info@agio-usa.com

Agio is the registered trademark of Agio International Company, Ltd.
Get sales headed in the right direction
As a world leader in outdoor furniture design and sales, nobody knows the terrain better than
Agio
. Thats why our Agio Reserve
dealers continue, year after year, to look to us for stunning

collections, superb sales support and a positive sense of direction. Come see why becoming an Agio
Reserve retailer can point you in the direction of increased customer trafc, sales, turns and prot.
I
wake up every day expecting something good
to happen. These are the words of Pete Carroll,
first-year head coach of the NFLs Seattle
Seahawks. The fact that Carroll has expectations
and that his expectations are positive, as opposed
to negativehas served him well over the years.
Take this years NFL season as an example.
Prior to the start of the NFL season, most football
analysts predicted that the Seahawks would win four
games, at best. They won eight. The analysts also pre-
dicted that it might be years before Carroll would be
able to guide his team to the playoffs. He did it in his
first year.
Those same analysts would have bet their last dol-
lars that there was no way that the Seahawks would
win their division; had they bet, they would have been
left penniless. The idea that the Seahawks would not
only win their division, but would win their opening
playoff game against the defending Super Bowl cham-
pions, the New Orleans Saints, was about as likely as
That Place freezing overso I guess theyre skiing and
snowboarding in That Place right about now.
This is not to mention that most football analysts
predicted that Carrolls rah-rah style was better suited
for the collegiate level, and that his attaboy, enthusiastic
personality would not play well with grown men in
the NFL. Based on fact that the Seahawks did, this year,
just about everything that everyone said that they
wouldnt do, it appears that a head football coach with
passion, enthusiasm, zeal, and commitment for his
team, his players, his owners, and his job can get the
job done in the NFL.
Granted, some will point out that the Seahawks won
their division and made the playoffs with an overall los-
ing record of seven to nine during the regular season.
As the old question goes, though, what do you call the
student who graduates from medical school with the
lowest GPA in the class? Doctor, it seems.
While it certainly is true that Carroll is the sort of
individual who is rare in most professions, and that he
possesses levels of commitment, competitiveness,
drive, determination, will to succeed, pursuit of excel-
lence, and work ethic that are uncommonly high, we
can all take a lesson from Carrolls play book.
Faced with the uncertainty of what the outcome
would be of leaving a very successful college-football
coaching gig at the University of Southern California
for the wildly unknown and precarious nature of the
NFL, Carroll took the leap of faith. Keep in mind that
his past stints in the NFL as a head football coach were
anything but glorious. As the head coach of the New
York Jets, in 1994, he was fired after just one season.
His reign as head coach of the New England Patriots,
from 1997 to 1999, ended when he was fired after
three seasons.
Some football analysts snickered that Carroll must
enjoy being a punching bag for NFL owners after he
returned to the NFL to accept the position as head
coach of the Seahawks. After the success of the 2010
season and the bright prospects of the Seahawks, going
forward, it appears that Carroll might finally get the last
laugh in the NFL.
Regardless of what happens with the economy this
year (and the prospects for a sustained recovery are
getting better by the day), we can all approach our
businesses and jobs with a Carroll-like attitude. Be will-
ing to step outside the box and do something differ-
ent. Be willing to try things that might not have
worked in the past, but might work today, with some
fixes and adjustments.
Be willing to learn from the past, yet dont dwell on
the past. Be willing to keep a positive and upbeat atti-
tude, regardless of what others are saying. Approach
each obstacle and hurdle in business with an attitude
that collectively, as a team, you will find a workable
solution. Above all, wake up each day expecting some-
thing good to happen.
TWEET
At this years HPBExpo, we will be sending out
tweets right after the show about some of the best
new products displayed at the show. In order to
receive tweets from Patio & Hearth Products Report
and find out what the show in Salt Lake City, Utah, had
to offer, sign up at Twitter: @patiohearth. Reading the
printed version of P&HPR, visiting the digital edition
at www.peninsula-media.com, and receiving tweets
from @patiohearth will keep you informed and on top
of some of the best new products in the industry.
TONY RAMOS
PUBLISHER
TRAMOS@PENINSULA-MEDIA.COM
N
ow that the
economy
appears to be
on an upswing, its the
perfect time to start plan-
ning your trip to Salt Lake
City, Utah, to attend North
Americas largest
indoor/outdoor-living
showcase of hearth, patio,
and barbecue products:
HPBExpo, March 25,
2011. More than 350 lead-
ing hearth, patio, and barbecue manufacturers and
suppliers will be there to demonstrate their latest
home-heating solutions, grills, outdoor kitchens, casu-
al patio furniture, water and landscape products, and
all-weather entertainment systems.
This years show is expected to attract more than
5,000 specialty and mass retailers, installing distribu-
tors, builders/remodelers, HVAC service contractors,
LP gas and hardware dealers, and professionals inter-
ested in learning more about innovative products that
consumers will be asking for in the months ahead.
Home-improvement spending is expected to
increase this year as the economy and the housing
market strengthen. Experts predict that in the com-
ing years, remodeling expenditures can be expected
to increase at an inflation-adjusted 3.5% average
annual ratebelow the pace during the housing
boom, but sharply recovering from the recent
downturn. Specialty retailers need to be prepared
for this surge in spending by offering the latest
products that consumers will seek to spruce up
their indoor and outdoor spaces.
One of the shows most popular attractions is
its New Product Pavilion. Now in its fifth year,
the pavilion displays innovative year-round prod-
ucts that your consumers are sure to love. In
addition to industry leaders Hearth & Home
Technologies, Lennox Hearth Products,
Napoleon Fireplaces and Grills,Travis Industries,
and Weber-Stephen Products, a large number of first-
time exhibitors will be on hand to showcase fresh
new products for the first time at HPBExpo. Some of
these include Dynasty Fireplaces, MAK Grills,AZ Patio
Heaters, Grill Pillow, and Shinwa Grill.
For the first time, this years show features a one-
day, all-day seminar on biomass central heating.
Sponsored by the Pellet Fuels Institute; the Hearth,
Patio & Barbecue Association; and the Hearth, Patio
& Barbecue Education Foundation, Biomass Central
Heating: New Opportunities in Heating Homes &
Businesses Symposium will take place on
Wednesday, March 2, the day before HPBExpo
officially opens.
This comprehensive seminar will include infor-
mation on retrofitting systems for biomass use, cur-
rent regulatory issues, and applications for small
businesses. To register for this program, go to
www.hpbexpo.com. As in past years, attendees can
also earn continuing-education units for National
Fireplace Institute Certification renewal.
A wide range of other educational programs will
be offered at this years show. We at Patio & Hearth
Products Report are proud to be sponsoring a retail-
er-panel discussion, entitled Grilling Your Way to
Success, on Friday, March 4. During this informative
program, top-notch retailers and barbecue aficiona-
dos David Backs of All Seasons Gas Grill & Fireside
Shop (Bowling Green, Kentucky); Brian Brooks of
Top of the Ozarks Hearth & Grill (Marshfield,
Missouri); David Biber of Two Guys Grilling (Dana
Point, California); Jim Cattey of Smoke N Fire
(Kansas City, Missouri); Henrik Stepanyan of
Barbeques Galore (Carlsbad, California); and Stuart
McDonald of Pristine Pools and Spas (Boise, Idaho)
will share real-life experiences on how they conduct-
ed barbecue/grilling events to increase business and
exposure for their stores.
With all these educational offeringsand the
opportunity to meet with other retailers and manu-
facturers in such a dynamic environmentyou can-
not afford to stay home. You might even want to stay
a few extra days to hit the ski slopes, which are just
45 minutes from downtown!
We look forward to seeing you at the show.
CAROL DAUS
EDITOR
CAROL@PENINSULA-MEDIA.COM
seahawks
from the editor
PUBLISHERS VIEWPOINT
1-800-461-5581 napoleonreplaces.com napoleongrills.com

Simplicity and practicality are said to be the trend for 2011. Lifestyles are changing, technology is changing and the way consumers are buying is
changing faster than we can keep up with. One thing that is not changing is the way people come together and work as a team to accomplish incredible,
extraordinary feats.
We at Napoleon
take pride in sharing team spirit, that over the years has contributed to the great success of our dealers and our company. It is the
team spirit that we share with our dealers and distributors that inspires us to create products that suit our ever-changing lifestyles and give consumers the
con dence they are yearning for.
We welcome you to come join the team spirit at our HPBA booth in Salt Lake City. Experience
new products that will bring success to your business in 2011.
We look forward to seeing you soon.
Sincerely,
The Schroeter Family and the Napoleon
Team
HPBA Napoleon
Booth #1521 & 1536

Team up for some excitement!
SCORE WITH NAPOLEON

PUBLISHER
Tony Ramos
tramos@peninsula-media.com
EDITOR
Carol Daus
carol@peninsula-media.com
ART DIRECTOR
Cass Estes
cass@peninsula-media.com
ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Kris Kyes
kris@peninsula-media.com
STAFF WRITERS
Kimberly Rodgers
Sharon Sanders
Cheryl Dangel Cullen
CIRCULATION DIRECTOR
Paul Piwowar
BUSINESS MANAGER
Susan Razetto
CEO & PRESIDENT
Tony Ramos
Corporate Office
Peninsula Media
21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 700
Torrance, CA 90503
(310) 792-7448
Fax (310) 792-7449
www.peninsula-media.com
Tony Ramos
Peninsula Media
21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 700
Torrance, CA 90503
(310) 792-7448
(310) 792-7449/Fax
(310) 968-3962/Cell
tramos@peninsula-media.com
SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES:
Patio & Hearth Products Report
PO Box 2190
Skokie, IL 60076-7890
Subscribe online:
http://www.peninsula-media.com/subscribe.html
Email: patioandhearth@halldata.com
Phone: (847) 763-9261
ause marketing is the con-
tribution of a portion of pro-
ceeds to a charitable cause. It
has been embraced by the public,
partner charities, and retailers. Rubs,
blends, and the award-winning All
Spice Cafe sauces from Two Guys
Grilling, L.L.C., will soon be on store
shelves coast to coast due to cause
marketing.We will donate a portion
of each sale to deserving charities.
This is how and why Two Guys
Grilling decided to make cause mar-
keting our key promotional vehicle.
I retired from the computer
industry in 1999, at the age of
46. I fished and watched
movies for two years. A neigh-
bor and I hosted a block party,
and the telephone started
ringing. We taught a series of
classes at a now-defunct grill
retailer, and we were off and
running. After another success-
ful series of barbecue classes, we
became Two Guys Grilling, dba.
When asked to participate in a local
taste-of event, our response was yes.
This led to a request to partici-
pate in a charitable golf tournament.
Again, we said yes. After two years, I
realized that charitable events were
driving our retail business. Personnel
changed; I bought out the original
cofounder and brought in Mike
Swan. His background in investing,
radio, and community action was
the perfect answer. The secret of
business success is surrounding
yourself with people who have the
skills you lack. I stepped down as
president and named him to the
post (if you run a business, check
your ego at the door).
We modeled Two Guys Grilling
(now L.L.C.) after the guilds of
Europe, making the company a meri-
tocracy that rewards performance.
New personnel start as intern candi-
dates. Upon approval from the pit
crew, they can become interns. At
the next level, they can become
apprentice candidates, then appren-
tices, pit masters, and so forth. All
personnel are asked to participate in
charitable events (without compen-
sation). This alone will cull the herd,
and the dedicated will rise to the
challenge. They are there because
they want to give back to the com-
munity and succeed in their careers.
We recruit from culinary
schools, the International Culinary
School at The Art Institute of
California, and community colleges.
Recruiting from high schools with
culinary departments has yielded
less helpful results.
All this leads to our cause-market-
ing program. Due to our involve-
ment with organizations like the
Wounded Warrior Project,
Community SeniorServ (the people
who prepare the food for Meals on
Wheels), the NFL Alumni
Association, Playboy Golf, and Tim
Brown/Kathy Ireland events, our
charitable efforts have rewarded
Two Guys Grilling with a robust
retail business in a difficult economy.
The golden triangle of marketing
involves the joint efforts of an equip-
ment manufacturer or retailer, a non-
profit television/radio station, and a
successful caterer. The manufacturer
or retailer supplies and maintains
the equipment needed for food
preparation. The nonprofit televi-
sion/radio station supplies promo-
tion, in the form of public-service
announcements, for the equipment
and catering components. The cater-
er provides food to support the
fund-raising efforts of the nonprofit
television/radio station. Completing
the cycle is the equipment manufac-
turer or retailer, who supplies sales
personnel to serve food at the fund-
raising events.
We are currently seeking a new
grill sponsor. KSBR FM (Mission
Viejo, California) is our nonprofit
radio station. Two Guys Grilling com-
pletes the triangle. Careful planning
and cooperation will result in all
three interests gaining from the
alliance. This formula has proven
very successful and advantageous for
all parties involved.
Another component to consider
adding would be the participation of
food and drink supplierscompa-
nies like KAH Tequila, AquaHydrate,
and Pocino Foods. Charitable-event
attendees who have dined well (and
imbibed a little) tend to warm up
their checkbooks for donations.
Shameless self-promotionvia
social networking and guerilla mar-
ketingis also a necessary element
in our business plan (Two Guys
Grilling has spent a total of $100 on
advertising in the eight years that it
has been in business). Sites such as
Facebook and LinkedIn can produce
advantageous corporate liaisons.
Facebook can be used in several
ways. On your wall, postings can be
made by various categories of sub-
scribers. Happy diners comments
are our favorite. Under information,
post your websites URL and your
companys location, hours, and serv-
ices. Describe your business entity.
Practice shameless self-promotion.
Under photos, set up galleries of
events, products, services, clients,
and business partners. Under events,
feature your charitable, premier, and
elite events by posting details about
each one individually. Under links,
make available your local advertis-
ing, along with YouTube posts,
radio/television clips, and print-
media articles about your business.
A carefully planned marketing
agenda will garner great results.Two
Guys Grilling is currently in talks
with multiple television networks to
bring our series to the U.S. consumer.
Look for ARRRR Ya Hungry? with
Two Guys Grilling in late spring or
early summer 2011.
Remember these words from
1900: In The Strenuous Life:
Essays and Addresses, Theodore
Roosevelt (18581919) wrote, Far
better it is to dare mighty things, to
win glorious triumphs, even though
checkered with failure, than to take
rank with those poor spirits who
neither enjoy much nor suffer
much, because they live in the gray
twilight that knows neither victory
nor defeat.
David Biber is the founder of Two Guys
Grilling, L.L.C., Dana Point, California.
cause
marketing
by DAVID BIBER
guest
EDI TORI AL
David Biber
(left) and
Michael Swan c
Galaxy Outdoor: The Next Generation in Outdoor Kitchens
by KRIS KYES
Barbecue Industry Mourns
the Loss of Donna Myers
Donna Holcomb Myers, a well-known expert in
the barbecue and grilling industry, died on
January 7, 2011, of CreutzfeldtJakob disease at
her home in Holmdel, New Jersey, at the age of
72. For the past 35 years, Myers has been one of
the industrys most loyal advocates, serving as a
spokesperson for manufacturers, retailers, and
entrepreneurs in the outdoor-cooking field.
Myers was a trailblazer for women in the
field of public relations and marketing for the
food industry, starting her career at Theodore L.
Sills (later acquired by BursonMarsteller, the
nations largest public-relations company). While
at BursonMarsteller, she worked on the
agencys Burger King account, which gave her
in-depth knowledge and skills in media relations
and the culinary-arts field.
In 1979, Myers opened her own public-relations
agency, Myers CommuniCounsel (later called DHM
Group), serving clients such as Quaker, Gerber,
Tropicana, Procter & Gamble, Hershey, and
Chiquita Brands, as well as many trade associations,
including the National Dairy Board, Pork Producers
Council, and Pickle Packers International.
Over the years, Myers developed a long and
close relationship with the Barbecue Industry
Association, which later became part of the Hearth,
Patio & Barbecue Association. During this time, she
provided marketing-communications services for
numerous individual manufacturers of barbecue
grills and accessories.
In recent years, she had worked closely with
Big Green Egg to help it develop strong name
recognition within the barbecue industry. One of
her final projects (and proudest accomplishments)
was helping the company develop and publish its
Bruce Spangrud, the creator/inventor of the
original modular outdoor island, recently
launched Galaxy Outdoor (Las Vegas, Nevada),
which manufactures a new and improved cus-
tom outdoor-kitchen system. All products built
by Galaxy Outdoor are constructed in the
United States out of galvanized number 120, 14
gauge tubing (not studs), then welded together
(not screwed together).
Not only are these units more durable than
competing products, theyre also less costly and
easier to install, the company says. Galaxy
Outdoors product line consists of an unlimited
range of ready-to-finish custom islands, firepits,
fire tables, and other accessory items that can
be individualized to match the architecture of a
home, its landscaping, its pool/spa design, and
its entertaining areas. The company also offers
free consultations for customers or dealers who
need design advice.
One of the major attributes of the Galaxy
Outdoor kitchen is that all of its components
are custom built to customers specifications,
and cutout openings for grills, side burners, stor-
age units, doors, and other components are
made at the time of manufacturing, at no cost to
customers.
Even if theres a pillar in the middle of
where an island is to be installed, well build
around it in sections,Spangrud says. Regardless
of the degree of customization, we build the
outdoor kitchen exactly to the customers speci-
ficationsstraight, angled, or round islands.
As an example, if a customer wants a 21-foot
island, it can be constructed in three 7-foot sec-
tions, with all the cutouts made precisely from
the homeowners specifications. These sections
are bolted together and will self-align, so cabi-
nets do not have to be held together to make
sure theyre level,Spangrud says. Theres no
other outdoor island product on the market
thats completely boltable and self-aligning.
Due to Galaxy Outdoors streamlined order-
ing process, these next-genera-
tion outdoor islands are shipped
within 14 days of the date of pur-
chase. Another unique selling
point is Galaxy Outdoors 10-year
unconditional warranty, which is
honored in all the markets that
the company servesincluding
those that receive substantial rainfall and snow.
The companys product line was recently
expanded and now includes built-in stainless-
steel components, storage drawers, and units,
all of which are constructed from 304 stain-
less steel and feature self-closing drawer
glides and high-quality, designer-style stain-
less handles.
Since Galaxy Outdoor is the largest producer
of custom islands in the world, it has developed
manufacturing processes that are extremely
cost effective, which allows the company to
pass on the savings. Margins for dealers can
range from 45% to 75% when you add in the
finishingand dont forget that custom islands
sell more stainless-steel built-in products.
Along with not charging extra for addition-
al cutouts, the company does not increase the
costs when your customers choose specific
brands of appliances. Were not obligating
anyone to buy certain manufacturers prod-
ucts, Spangrud says. These are truly 100%
custom-made islands.
Given the affordability of the Galaxy
Outdoor system, demand has been very
strong, as homeowners look for less-expensive
options in outdoor-kitchen construction. Our
islands are at least one-third less costly than
conventional, custom-built, stud-and-track
islandsand they cost 25% less than brick-
and-mortar islands, if you figure in time, labor,
and permits (and dont forget the mess it
makes). Galaxy Outdoor kitchens dont need
permits, Spangrud says.
Dealers interested in representing Galaxy
Outdoor Products should call (702) 448-5600
or visit www.Galaxyoutdoor.com and click on
the dealer icon.
The first-ever electric-grill island by Galaxy Outdoor
features a Dimplex grill.
{
i
n
d
u
s
t
r
y
}
Bruce Spangrud, founder of Galaxy Outdoor, enjoys
dining in his well-appointed outdoor kitchen.
January/February 2011 Patio & Hearth Products Report 11
Big Green Egg Cookbook. Myers was always pleased to share her knowl-
edge and passion for outdoor cooking by contributing countless articles to
industry publications.
She is survived by her husband of 47 years, Charles L. Myers; her son and daugh-
ter-in-law, Chip and Kim; and her grandson, Dylan Myers (all of Holmdel). Donations
for the advancement of CreutzfeldtJakob disease research may be made, in memory
of Donna Holcomb Myers, to the National Prion Disease Pathology Surveillance
Center, 2085 Adelbert Rd., Room 419, Cleveland, OH 44106-4907.
Leisure Design Expands Its Sales Team
Leisure Design, supplier of high-quality outdoor woven furniture, recently
appointed Michael Birg to its sales force. Birg professionally provides service to
Michigan, Ohio, and Kentucky.
Mike Friedrichsen, director of U.S. sales and marketing, says, Michael brings
more than 22 years of industry experience to the table, and is well respected by
the dealers he serves. He called on me when I was on the retail side and is defi-
nitely up to the challenge of helping us to pioneer our product line in his area.
Birg adds, My goal is to match my retailers not just with products, but with
manufacturers who understand the industry and the needs of both retailers
and consumers. I believe that Leisure Design embodies exactly what todays
marketplace needs.
Leisure Design also hired Corky Brown and Jeff Lynner, of KCB Associates, to
represent its lines in New Jersey, New York, and the New England states.
According to Friedrichsen, Jeff and Corky have great relationships with the
dealers in their area, and they have been diligently presenting the line of stylish
outdoor woven furniture to their dealers, beginning at the Chicago
International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market
.
Brown adds, We are very excited to make this profitable, proven business
opportunity available to our network of dealers and welcome the opportunity to
discuss how it fills a unique gap in the market.
In addition, Leisure Design hired Scott Reitz to provide service to dealers
throughout Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Friedrichsen says, Scott brings more
than 20 years of industry experience to the table, and has covered both retail and
contract sales for companies like Brown Jordan and Tropitone.
Leisure Design supplies a full line of outdoor woven products, including sec-
tional pieces, seating, dining, and accessories. It offers domestic warehousing
and quick-ship programs, and it will be introducing a custom special-order pro-
gram in the spring.
Colorado Helps Fund Earths Flame
Educational Efforts
The Colorado Governors Energy Office (GEO) awarded Earths
Flame, Inc., $25,000 in funding to increase awareness and
expand the use of a new, innovative product called Earths
Flame. Additional investment is needed to promote and expand
the use of Earths Flame throughout Colorado, the United States, and Canada.
Funding is from the U.S. Department of Energy, through the GEOs
Innovation Funding for
Energy Efficiency (IFEE) pro-
gram. The funds will be used
to help offset the cost of
advertising in national publi-
cations, demonstrating the
product and taking sales
orders at three national
trade shows, and developing
and producing marketing
and educational collateral
materials.
The trade shows target co-ops (such as Ace Hardware and Do it Best), fire-
place dealers and distributors, chimney sweeps, supply warehouses for residen-
tial construction, and builders. Direct Internet sales to U.S. and Canadian resi-
Michael Birg Corky Brown Jeff Lynner Scott Reitz
{
i
n
d
u
s
t
r
y
}
dents are included in the marketing and sales plan.
Earths Flame is an alternative wood-burning fireplace retrofit device that
uses a log lighter in combination with a combustion-friendly and emissions-
reducing fire grate. The product is designed to be used by homeowners in their
existing fireplaces and by builders constructing new houses.
The only way to mitigate emissions and improve the efficiency of an exist-
ing wood-burning fireplace is to use a retrofit device. Earths Flame is that
device, the company says. There is no other technology on the market today
that addresses emissions and energy efficiency at the source of the flame. All
other technologies (such as filters) require maintenance and lose effectiveness
over time.
The product is commercially available, patent pending, and is currently run-
ning its first production line of 250 units for Ace Hardware. As demand for
Earths Flame grows, so, too, will real, green jobs for Colorado families. 2011 is
a critical year for increasing awareness and penetrating the market, and there-
fore, the IFEE investment will be a significant boost.
Earths Flame is owned by Lisa Leighton. Her father invented the original gas
log lighter for wood-burning fireplaces more than 55 years ago. Today, Leighton
runs the family business, and she has chosen to relocate Earths Flame from
California to Colorado.
Hart & Cooley Appoints New
Members to Management Team
Hart & Cooley, Inc., recently appointed three individu-
als to its management team. Sean Steimle has been
promoted to the position of senior vice president of
sales. Steimle will report directly to Bernard Roy, pres-
ident of Hart & Cooley. In his new role, Steimle will
be responsible for all Hart & Cooley sales and cus-
tomer service, including wholesale, retail, Canada,
and commercial sectors. Steimle joined Hart &
Cooley in September 2001 and has held various posi-
tions in sales, marketing, and operations. His most
recent position was as vice president of the commer-
cial-products group.
Mark Walraven has been promoted to the position
of vice president of the companys commercial-prod-
ucts group division. Walraven will report directly to
Steimle. In his new role, Walraven will be responsible
for all Hart & Cooley brands sold through the commer-
cial sales channel. Walraven joined Hart & Cooley in
1997 and has held various positions in human
resources, sales, and marketing, most recently as the
leader of the companys Oracle implementation team.
Curt Monhart has been appointed to the position of
vice president of marketing. Monhart will report
directly to Roy. In his new role, Monhart will be
responsible for directing the marketing activities for all
of Hart & Cooley. Monhart joined Hart & Cooley in
2008. He has extensive HVAC marketing and sales
experience.
Hart & Cooley is a leading manufacturer of air-distri-
bution and vent products for forced-air heating and air-
conditioning systems. In addition, Hart & Cooley man-
ufactures products for the commercial HVAC, refrigera-
tion, and roofing industries.
Major products include grills, registers and diffusers, flexible ducts, gas
vents, chimney systems, and commercial products (duct-system components,
venting and grease ducts, equipment curbs, roof flashings, roof drains, roof
hatches, and interior access doors). Founded in 1901, Hart & Cooley is head-
quartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and has operations throughout the
United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Big Green Egg Promotes Jerry Stone
Big Green Egg Company has promoted Jerry Stone to the department of
corporate sales and distributor relations, in the position of assistant sales
manager. In this newly created position, Stone will support the efforts of
Big Green Egg through a variety of initiatives and distributor-support
functions, along with the development of platforms to grow volume at
the distributor and dealer level. Stone will report to Lou West, sales man-
ager for Big Green Egg.
Rutherford Equipment Hires
Tate Greely as Sales
Representative
Rutherford Equipment, celebrating its 50th year
as a wholesale distributor of hearth and barbe-
cue products in the Southeast, announces the
hiring of Tate Greely as sales representative in
Florida. Greely brings to the Rutherford sales
team eight years of experience in the hearth
and barbecue industry.
Twin-Star International Gives Award for
Top Retail-sales Performance
Matt Kramer of iKeating (Minot, North Dakota) was the winner of Twin-
Star Internationals national sales-performance incentive program during
the fall 2010 High Point Market.
Kramer, who sold nearly 40 fire-
places last year, received a
$1,000 bonus prize for this
accomplishment.
While last years winners
have already been announced,
the sales-performance contest is
still heating up for the
2010/2011 winter season. Good
luck to everyone involved. There
might be another $1,000 bonus
prize waiting for the winner next
fall, the company says.
ICFA Names New
Lifetime Achievement
Award Committee
The International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA) has appointed a new
committee for selecting recipients of the prestigious Lifetime Achievement
Award. The Lifetime Achievement Award was created by the casual-furniture
industry in 2002 to recognize and honor individuals who have made exempla-
Independent studies estimate that the 38 million households in the United
States with fireplaces emit a total of 70,000 tons of harmful pollutants every
year. The source of these pollutants has not gone unnoticed, as fireplaces are
being banned (or their use is being limited) across the United States. Earths
Flame
has introduced a hybrid grate for wood-burning fireplaces that is

the cleanest-burning retrofit in the open-hearth industry, eliminating up to
7.2 tons of fireplace particulate emissions for every 1,000 fireplaces.
Earths Flames green attributes and
innovative qualities won the coveted
2010 Vesta Green Award at HPBExpo.
The award praised the products inno-
vation in design and technology for
significantly reducing emissions in
wood-burning fireplaces.
This new, hybrid retrofit features a
gas-enhanced combustion system com-
bined with an emissions-reducing
grate. Earths Flame (patent pending)
can be retrofitted into almost any fire-
place. The unique design addresses the
three Ts of good combustion: time,
temperature, and turbulence.
Earths Flame starts with a Blue Flame log lighter underneath the fire
grate; it creates a rapid and sustained ignition of the wood, diminishing
the initial smoke when a fire is lit. The refractory plate above the fire
keeps combustion gases in the fireplace longer, for more complete com-
bustion. The refractory plate also prevents gases and particles from going
straight up the chimney, creates turbulence, and doubles radiant heat.
Earths Flame Fireplace Grate
Reduces Pollutants by 78%
Earths Flames hybrid grate for wood-
burning fireplaces received the 2010
Vesta Green Award at HPBExpo.
Matt Kramer (left) receives a $1,000 bonus from
Bill Caples (center), vice president of sales, Twin-
Star International, and Steve Mitchell, independ-
ent representative, Harrington Group.
Sean Steimle
Curt Monhart
Bernard Roy
Tate Greely
ry contributions to the industry, as well
as to their individual communities.
Rory Rehmert of Pride Family
Brands, ICFA chair, says, The new
selection committee reflects the broad
membership within ICFA and includes
industry leaders whose longtime
involvement in the casual segment
lends an expertise to their participa-
tion on this committee.
The new committee includes retail-
ers Petey Fleischut of Casual
Marketplace and Catherine Galbreath of
ABSCO Fireplace & Patio. Galbreath
received the Lifetime Achievement
Award in 2007. The committee also
includes manufacturers Gary McCray,
president of Lane Venture, and Lou
Rosebrock, senior vice president of
sales and marketing for Lloyd/Flanders
Industries, as well as sales representa-
tive Dean Smith, owner of Dean H.
Smith Associates Inc.
Sattler AG Announces
Plans to Acquire Outdura
From Shuford Mills
Global performance-textile company
Sattler AG, based in Graz, Austria, has
announced plans to acquire Outdura
from Shuford Mills. The acquisition will
include the purchase of Shuford Mills
production operation and distribution
center in Hudson, North Carolina.
All Shuford Mills employees will be
joining the new company. Natalie Scott,
vice president of sales and marketing,
casual furniture, and Jeff Jimison, vice
president of marine and awning, will
continue to lead Outdura brand growth
in their respective segments.
C.P. Davis, CEO of Outdura, states,
We are moving from one great family
(the Shufords) to another (Sattler). Our
core values align, and we share strongly
an unmatched passion for serving our
customers with high-quality fabrics.
Like Shuford Mills, Sattler is a multigen-
eration, family company with a commit-
ment to its employees and to the com-
munities in which it operates. Our cus-
tomers can expect Outdura to be even
more capable of supporting their per-
formance-fabric needs in the future.
Cal Spas Further
Expands Regional
Sales-management
Team
Cal Spas has announced the addition of
a seasoned regional sales manager to its
field sales team. Kansas-based Rick Pettit
joins the Cal Spas team with 20 years of
retail and regional sales experience in
the spa industry. Pettit will be covering
the central United States and parts of
Canada for the hot-tub giant, and his
broad and extensive experience in the
spa industry will help retailers achieve
success in 2011 and the years to come.
Summer Classics Masters Merchandising
G21 J V U [ L T W V Y H Y ` I \ Y U L Y
l N T R O D U C l N G
t h e n e w
The new O2! |s the u|tra o|ean, sta|n|ess stee| burner from
Rea| Fyre that |s perfeot for any mooern home. W|th s|eek
||nes, a po||sheo m|rroreo fn|sh, ano our Fyre Oems ano
Fyre O|ass oontemporary proouots, |t may be the most
beaut|fu| aoo|t|on to your hearth.
www.rhpeterson.com
Understanding the
importance of
visual merchandis-
ing is key to any
successful busi-
ness. It is in mer-
chandising that a
major retailer is
able to connect
with the customer.
Summer Classics,
manufacturer of
fine outdoor and
garden furnish-
ings, definitely
knows how to
speak the language
of its customers. Summer Classics won the award for merchandising in
the permanent showroom at the Chicago International Casual Furniture &
Accessories Market
in September 2010.
While a 10,000square-foot rectangular space would seem overwhelming
to any retailer, Summer Classics has a unique approach to merchandising
that seems to work well in any space. As Harold Hudson, vice president of
sales and marketing, explains it, We take this large space and divide it into
several small areas, or vignettes, in order to showcase our furniture best. Our
designers do an outstanding job of taking each one of the furniture lines and
coordinating the fabrics and accessories to create a look or feeling that helps
the customer visualize the furniture in his or her own space.
Hudson also points out what a great incentive this is for Summer
Classics dealersbecause they are able to imagine how the products will
look in their own locations, and which lines might appeal most to their
particular customers. In addition to winning the 2010 award for mer-
chandising on a wholesale level, Summer Classics won the Casual Living
Merchandising Award for its retail stores for the fourth year in a row.
Summer Classics Equestrian line
2010 International Pool/Spa/Patio Expo Makes a Splash
Industry professionals recently packed the Bayside Halls at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas,
Nevada, for the 2010 International Pool/Spa/Patio Expo, one of the industrys most trusted sources for leading-
edge products, education, and networking.
Gold medalist Michael Phelps conducted the official ribbon-cutting duties to open the show (November 35);
the educational conference was held from October 31 through November 5. Phelps spent two hours signing
autographs, visiting with attendees, and promoting his new signature line of swim spas by Master Spas.
Total attendance was 9,255, a 1.5% increase over the 2009 show. Attendees included pool/spa builders and
installers, retailers, service companies, landscape architects, design agencies, and manufacturers. Lindsay Roberts,
director of the show, says, We are very pleased with the number of attendees and with the enthusiasm they
brought to the buying and selling activity on the show floor.
{
i
n
d
u
s
t
r
y
}
In light of sustained double-digit
growth over the past five years,
Tervis Tumbler Company has
established an executive office
of the president and added Barry
Wolfson as president and CEO.
Laura Spencer, the current presi-
dent and CEO, was named CFO.
Wayne Varnadore was promoted
to COO (from vice president of
operations), and Rich Kaplan
was promoted to chief sales and
marketing officer (from vice
president of sales and market-
ing). The announcement came
from Norbert Donelly, chair.
Tervis Reorganizes to Manage Double-digit Growth
Barry Wolfson Laura Spencer Wayne Varnadore Rich Kaplan
Cast Classics Expands
Its Sales Team
The Cast Classics family proudly wel-
comes Bob Hansaard to its valued
sales team. Hansaard has worked in
the Central and South Texas territory
for the past 23 years, helping his
clients grow their businesses success-
fully with midrange to high-end home
furnishings. Bob has a business degree
from University of Houston and has
lived in Texas his entire life, settling in
Austin for the past 25 years. He is
accompanied in the business by his
son, Jay Hansard.
Groovystuff Teams Up
With The Art Institute
of Las Vegas
Groovystuff (Dallas, Texas), a manu-
facturer of unique home furnishings
and accents produced from
reclaimed teak, has partnered with
The Art Institute of Las Vegas,
Nevada, in a design challenge that
gives students real-world experience,
a chance to earn royalties on a suc-
cessful design, and a reason to
choose the home-furnishings indus-
try after graduation.
Chris Bruning, cofounder of
Groovystuff, says, We need to
embrace these talented young stu-
dents from across the country and
encourage them to seek a career in
the home-furnishings industry. If we
are going to appeal to generation X
and generation Y consumers, we
need designers with a fresh, young
perspective.
Thirteen students from the Interior
Design, Graphic Design, and Drafting
Technology & Design programs par-
ticipated in the Groovystuff design
challenge in fall 2010 and debuted
their final class projects at the Las
Vegas Market
in January 2011.
Patio & Hearth
Products Report to
Conduct Retailer Panel
at HPBExpo
As part of this years educational pro-
gram at HPBExpo, Patio & Hearth
Products Report will be holding a
retailer-panel discussion, entitled
Grilling Your Way to Success, on
Friday, March 4. This informative pro-
gram will feature a question-and-
answer session with David Backs of
All Seasons Gas Grill & Fireside Shop
(Bowling Green, Kentucky); Brian
Brooks of Top of the Ozarks Hearth &
Grill (Marshfield, Missouri); David
Biber of Two Guys Grilling (Dana
Point, California); Jim Cattey of Smoke
N Fire (Kansas City, Missouri); Henrik
Stepanyan of Barbeques Galore
(Carlsbad, California); and Stuart
McDonald of Pristine Pools and Spas
(Boise, Idaho). These top-notch retail-
ers and barbecue aficionados will
share real-life experiences on how
they organize barbecue/grilling events
to increase business and exposure for
their stores.
Hearth & Home Technologies Inc., the worlds leading provider of fireplaces,
inserts, and stoves, will be exhibiting at the 2011 HPBExpo, which will take
place at the Calvin L. Rampton Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City,
Utah, on March 25.
Jeni Forman, vice president of dealer marketing for Hearth & Home
Technologies, says that HPBExpo is the one and only time each year when our
entire industry comes together under one roof. It provides a wonderful venue
for making connections with many of our customers, face to face. For the 2011
show, we have a fun, interactive booth planned that will showcase our industry-
leading programs and products in an exciting new way. We will also be provid-
ing on-site product and sales training, and cosponsoring the all-industry party on
Friday night.
Hearth & Home Technologies
to Exhibit at HPBExpo
Follow us on Twitter: @patiohearth
Stay on top of the latest news and new-product
introductions/collections in the
patio, hearth, barbecue/
grill, outdoor-kitchen, and
outdoor-living industry.
n industry mainstay for the
past 20 years, Exhausto Inc.,
one of the leading suppliers
of economical and environmentally
sustainable ventilation and exhaust sys-
tems, is getting a new name and look.
Exhaustoa name that has become
synonymous with exhaust fans
became ENERVEX on January 1, 2011.
Gitte P. Hagensen, executive vice
president of the company (based in
Roswell, Georgia), says,We used to do
only exhaust fans, and now, weve
spread out to do many more things;
the name isnt who we are any more.
ENERVEX represents the variety of
products we offer today much better.
Exhausto, 20 years ago, was all
about exhaust fans.Today, it offers a
variety of products, from heat-recovery
systems to venting for fireplaces, boil-
ers, and water heaters, in addition to
bathroom and kitchen ventilation.
Were also the largest U.S. supplier of
pizza-oven fans,Hagensen adds.With
so many products under the compa-
nys roof, the Exhausto name proved
too limitingand what better time to
reassess a name than on the compa-
nys anniversary, which was commem-
orated on November 8, 2010.
A U.S. SUCCESS STORY
The story of its founding is a U.S.
success story. Hagensen and her hus-
band, Steen, had moved to the United
States from Denmark after he accept-
ed a U.S. job. Steen used to work for a
company that listed Exhausto, a manu-
facturer of exhaust fans in Denmark,
among its clients.
Exhausto approached Gitte and
asked her if she would be interested
in selling the companys chimney fans
in the United States. She agreed, and
she started importing and selling resi-
dential chimney fans to chimney
sweeps and fireplace stores through-
out the United States from a spare
bedroom in her house.
A year later, the business was so
successful that Steen came on board,
and the company added commercial
products to the mix.Today, Steen is the
companys president and CEO; the
company employs 20 people in its
headquarters and has its own offices
in Boston,
Massachusetts;
Chicago, Illinois;
Dallas,Texas; and
San Francisco and
Los Angeles, California. In the United
States, 54 companies represent the
products, and they are sold through 15
wholesalers.
Its not surprising that the name
change was a natural evolution
spurred by the companys incredible
growth. ENERVEX is an acronym that
stands for just about everything that
the company does. ENER represents
energy,V stands for ventilation, E is for
exhaust, and X stands for heat
exchange.
When we had our 20th anniver-
sary, it was natural to think of where
we started, where were going, and
how fast the time went,Hagensen
says.We believe the new name better
reflects who we are now and what we
are doing, going forward.
It has been a long, interesting jour-
neyfrom a bedroom startup to a
company with annual sales of about
$10 million, at last count. Its success
is something of which Hagensen can
be extremely proud. She says, I just
learned as I went, and then we diver-
sified. I stayed with the residential
business, and my husband took on
the commercial side.
Hagensen recalls that when they
started out, selling chimney fans
was an uphill battle. She says,
There was no such thing as a
chimney fan in the United States.
We introduced the concept, and we
had to explain its benefits. There
was a lot of resistance because
there had been no need for
mechanical
venting.
Convincing
someone to
put a fan
on the chimney was a big step.
The companys new name will be
promoted at HPBExpo in Salt Lake
City, Utah, in March 2011 using an
advertising campaign that culmi-
nates in a Smart-car giveaway. The
car will be the grand prize awarded
to the lucky person whose entry is
drawn from those correctly giving
the companys new name. Entries
will be accepted at the companys
booth and online at
www.enervex.com.
At the website, visitors can see for
themselves the new name and every-
thing that the company does. There is
also a link to the residential side of
the business, which is at www.chim-
neyfans.com.
Other than giving the company a
fresh outward look, the name change
will not change how business is
done. We will continue with the
same ownership, same products,
same people, and same service,
Hagensen notes.
NEW PRODUCTS
The name change wont be the
only news at HPBExpo. ENERVEX also
plans to introduce the FDDS, its fire-
place fan damper system. Hagensen
also hints that the company will be
introducing other products, in the
future, that offer cleaner emissions or
that are more energy efficient. Any
new green products will only rein-
force the companys tagline: Green
before green was in, it states.
Hagensen explains the companys
environmental message this way:
Europe is far ahead of us, in the
United States, in being concerned
about the environmentso our prod-
ucts have been green for many, many
years. Weve been green from the get-
go. The way the product is manufac-
tured in Denmark is green; 70% of our
products are made of recycled alu-
minum, and our motors are energy
efficient,she says.
With the name change in effect,
ENERVEX is making some other
changes to prepare for a changing
of the guard in the future. The
Hagensens son, Christian, has head-
ed the companys Chicago office
for the past four years. He has now
relocated to the companys head-
quarters and is on track to follow a
15-year plan that will prepare him
to take over as CEO, leaving his par-
ents free to retire.
Other than that, our plan is to
stay on the path that we are on,
Hagensen says. Were not going to
change a lot. Well keep on doing
what we do best: giving great service
and improving our products (and
how they are used) while introduc-
ing new products.
corporate
PROFI LE
ENERVEX
From left, back row: Young Han, Andreas Hansen, John Altiere,
Brian Colucci, Karl Coleman, Joey Bunnelle, and Howard
Thomas; middle row: Jason Lawya, Carianne Louw, Lisa Acuff,
Jackie Keniley, Dianne Rollins, Heidi Hansen, and Phillip
Cannon; seated: Gitte Hagensen, Steen Hagensen, Peter
Hansen, and Cassie, the companys mascot.
Exhausto has changed its name to ENERVEX to reflect a greater depth of product offerings. by CHERYL DANGEL CULLEN
is unveiled
a
ENERVEX is
introducing the
FDDS fireplace
fan damper
system.
t one time, a brick fireplace and mantel
were considered contemporary; as times
change, so does the definition of contem-
porary style. What was a contemporary fireplace
design five years ago might well be pass now.
What defines the contemporary fireplace in 2011?
Jeni Forman says, No limits, I guess, is how I
would describe it. Forman is vice president of
dealer marketing for Hearth & Home Technologies
(Lakeville, Minnesota). Sure, there are the more
common landscape-style fireplaces with ribbon
burners, but now, we are seeing more and more
variations in shapes, media, and flame patterns,
she says.
Mike Pennington, director of research and
development for Lennox Hearth Products
(Nashville, Tennessee), agrees. Because contempo-
rary design incorporates so many possibilities,
Pennington offers a checklist of characteristics,
noting that todays modern fireplaces:
incorporate a broad scope of designs and
tastes, encompassing everything from traditional
influences to those that might be considered
avant-garde;
make creative use of various media types and
of nontraditional fuels;
feature exaggerated shapes, sizes, and aspect
ratios, such as elongated rectangular openings; and
emphasize a more minimalist design.
Despite the sea of available contemporary
styles, Pennington notes, there is no clear, lasting
dominant feature, in terms of a fire interpretation.
With all of these variables to consider, the home-
owner who wants to stay ahead of the curve
would be hard-pressed to decide what type of
contemporary fireplace design offers the most
longevity.
This is where kits come in, Dave Ivey suggests.
Ivey, who is national sales manager for Canada for
Monessen Hearth Systems Company (MHSC),
Paris, Kentucky, says that contemporary fireplaces
formerly got their look from their shapes and
design faces.
Now, the biggest trend I see is the standard
look with contemporary options. We have one
platform that is traditionalbut add a rock kit or
light kit, and it can look contemporary. Five or six
years ago, there were architectural differences.
Now, the fireplace is traditional, but it can be cus-
tomized with contemporary options, he says.
Chris Green, general manager of Kingsman
Fireplaces (Winnipeg, Manitoba), concurs. He says,
Were seeing a shift to modifying traditional
wood-burning products with a gas unitand
instead of logs, using contemporary elements like
rocks. I see this particularly among people who
are renovating homes with traditional fireplaces.
THE LATEST TAKE
To keep up with the evolving sense of what
constitutes a contemporary fireplace, manufactur-
ers have been staying busy. MHSC added a 42-inch
see-through fireplace and a new 60-inch wide-
view linear Echelon to its Majestic line. The new
additions round out the line, which now includes
42-, 50-, and 60-inch fireplaces.
In addition, the company has made contempo-
rary kits available for its Solitaire 300. These give
the consumer options for personalizing the
A
spot
LI GHT
chic choices
Todays contemporary
fireplace designs lend an
artistic flair to any room.
by CHERYL DANGEL CULLEN
design, including
a halogen lighting
kit with a bright
white light that
shines up from
the bottom and,
as Ivey says, cre-
ates a great
effect, reflecting
off the glass.
Also new is the
Pearl designer fireplace line, which now
includes a peninsula unit, as well as see-
through and corner fireplaces (in right
and left versions). Each fireplace comes
with contemporary options, including
light and rock kits.
Implementation of the Signature
Command system through the whole
scope of fireplaces is another innovation
at MHSC. Weve built in a remote system
so you can turn lights off and on, and
control the intensity of lights, all from
the remote. It is something were leading
the industry in right now, Ivey says.
Rob Sidoroff, sales manager for
Town & Country/Pacific Energy
Fireplace Products (Duncan, British
Columbia), reports that Town &
Country has been working at provid-
ing the basis for designers and archi-
tects to create their own contempo-
rary designs using our many choices of
burners, liners, and shapes of product.
Going forward, we will be introducing
even more design options, based on
trends we see emerging.
Lennox Hearth Products Radium,
Scandium and X-Fires catalytic vent-free
gas fireplaces continue to be on the
cutting edge in this category. They
hang on the wall, just like a plasma tele-
vision, and arent just modern looking:
The clean-burning catalytic-combustion
process actually cleans the room air as
the units burn at nearly
100% efficiency,
Pennington says. With
so many design options
in this category, we are
considering some inter-
esting new ideas for
the future.
At Hearth & Home Technologies,
both Heat & Glo and Heatilator have a
variety of contemporary fireplace
options. One recent addition to the Heat
& Glo lineup is the Solaris. The Solaris
is truly revolutionary, Forman says,
adding that it can be built into a wall
that was framed using 2x6-inch lumber.
Available in two models, The Solaris
36-ST features a single flame that
spreads across the center of the fire-
place, creating the appearance of being
suspended in midair. The other model,
the Solaris 36-MR, is outfitted with LED
lighting and mirrored glass, creating a
dramatic illusion of many flames moving
into infinity, she says.
Also new to Heat & Glo are the
RED40 and RED60. RED
stands for rectangular
European design, and 40
and 60 represent the linear
lengths (in inches) of each
model. These modern, lin-
ear fireplaces give con-
sumers a custom feel by
providing a dramatic state-
ment, with nearly endless
refractory and media
options, Forman explains.
In addition, Heat & Glos
6000 and 8000 fireplace
lines have been relaunched
using the same core firebox,
but with major upgrades to the interior
that create the perfect combination of
flame, glow, and lighting, Forman says.
Napoleon Fireplaces has just signed
off on its Plazmafire, a new linear fire-
place that is essentially wall hung,
according to David Coulson, national
manager of advertising at Wolf Steel
Ltd./Napoleon Appliance Corp. (Barrie,
Ontario). Plazmafire comes in answer to
the trend of putting fireplaces into non-
traditional rooms. Of all fireplaces, 80%
to 90% are in the living or dining room,
but sometimes, you want one in the bed-
room or bathroom, Coulson says.
The Plazmafire can go almost any-
where. It is a direct-vent fireplace; you
run the gas up between the studs, and
you mount the fireplace right to the
wall. It is similar, Coulson
says, to an electric fireplace
that is hung right on top of
the wall. The installation pos-
sibilities are endless. These are
easier installations for condos
and for rooms that have a lot
of venting issues, he says.
Also new is Napoleon
Fireplaces linear line of
Torch fireplaces, which range
up to 50 inches in size. The
newest entry is only 12 inch-
es wide, but it is three feet
tall and is the only one
approved for the bathroom,
Coulson says. Five to seven
years ago, fireplaces were all
36- or 42-inch boxes with log
sets and different brick pat-
terns. It was a box.
He adds, They looked good, but they
were all a square design. Now, with dif-
ferent installation possibilities, designs,
and sizeslong and horizontal, tall and
vertical, plus arch designs that are small
enough to fit in a smaller areaanything
goes. With Plazmafire, you can hang a
fireplace just about anywhere.
Kingsman Fireplaces is planning two
introductions for the first quarter of
2011. One is a new 36-inch linear fire-
place being added to its Infinite series,
which already includes 42- and 60-inch
units. All three sizes are available in sin-
gle- or double-sided versions. Theres
nothing but fire when you look at it. It is
Page 18, top: Monessen Hearth Systems
Companys Serenade see-through fireplace can
be installed between two interior rooms or
between the interior and exterior of the house.
Page 18, bottom left: Town & Countrys WS54
widescreen fireplace provides a generous view
of the flames.
Page 18, bottom center: Heat & Glos RED60;
its name stands for rectangular European
design in a 60-inch size.
Left: Napoleons Torch GT8 is an ultramodern,
direct-vent fireplace with a slim, single-flame
design.
Bottom: As Lennox Hearth Products Radium
and X-Fires catalytic, vent-free gas fireplaces
burn (at an efficiency of nearly 100%), they
clean the rooms air.
Bottom inset: New to Kingsman Fireplaces
Infinite series is a 36-inch linear model.
spot
LI GHT
AS THE LEADERS OF THE GLOBAL BIOETHANOL
FIREPLACE EVOLUTION, ECOSMART FIRE OFFERS
OUR PARTNERS THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS:
The largest, most fexible collection of high quality
bioethanol freplaces
The safest, most independently tested collection in
the world including C-UL US Listed
Fuel supply and delivery service throughout the USA
direct to your customers
8 years of tried and tested market experience in the
bioethanol industry
Opportunity to work with the brand on a
number of levels
Competitive pricing and fexible stock
management solutions
Visit us at HPBExpo [Stand 3879]
Call 888-590-3335 or
email usa@ecosmartre.com today
EcoSmart Inc
3641 Holdrege Ave, Suite B, Los Angeles CA 90016
JOIN FORCES
WITH THE BEST
IN BIOETHANOL
FIREPLACES
www.e-nrg.com
just a ribbon of fire in a very simple,
elongated viewing area, Green says.
Also new is the Capella, a clean, mod-
ern burner system that allows home-
owners to use rocks (instead of logs) to
make a traditional fireplace more con-
temporary. Other introductions include
the Cove gas fireplacewhich is tall,
and perfect for vertical spacesand the
Solara and Solace direct-vent gas fire-
places, which can be placed almost any-
where in a room.
IMPACT OF THE ECONOMY
If sales are any indication, these inno-
vations are on the right track.
Contemporary fireplace designs have
held their own (and, in some cases, pros-
pered), despite the sagging economy.
I think the contemporary products
have survived the economic challenges
better than expected, Forman says.
There are enough contemporary options
available on the market for them to span
a wider variety of price points. While the
higher-end products have been affected,
the demand for the midrange-priced
items is still holding strong.
Sidoroff says,Im sure the economy
has had an impact, but not nearly as
much as it has had on mainstream prod-
ucts. Design-forward people who are
attracted to contemporary products are
used to spending what it takes to achieve
the look they want. They understand that
it costs more to achieve good design.
Pennington adds, Contemporary
style has probably not fallen prey to eco-
nomic challenges as much as more tradi-
tional designs have, simply due to more
interest/curiosity in the general cus-
tomer base. Even though it has been
emerging for several years, contempo-
rary design is still very new and fresh to
a large segment of buyers.
Green suggests that contemporary
fireplace designs might well have helped
many manufacturers and dealers
through tough economic times. If you
didnt have some of the more modern
and contemporary product lines, you
might be hurting worse, he says.
Ivey agrees, and he feels that dealers
have also benefited from the contempo-
rary kits that MHSC introduced during
the downturn. You can start with one
unit and go to different looks. Dealers
can reduce inventory and just stock the
different options, he says. The dealer can
stock a single box, as a platform; if its tra-
ditional, buyers can use it as is,or they
can have different colored glass, rocks,
and so on, to get the maximum number
of looks out of one box, Ivey adds.
GOING THE EXTRA MILE
Even sizzling contemporary designs
that are ahead of the curve will only get
a company so far. It must still lead with
solid products and innovation.
Since its inception, Heat & Glo has
led the industry in product innovation,
Forman says. In the 1980s, when Heat
& Glo introduced direct-vent gas tech-
nology, the industry was changed forev-
er. Ever since then, Heat & Glo has con-
stantly been pushing the envelope, in
terms of designing products that meet
consumer demandas well as stretch-
ing the imagination in whats possible in
a hearth product.
Lennox Hearth Products is also com-
mitted to product development. We are
taking a new look at this market and
leveraging a wealth of general design
and application experience from our
parent company, Lennox International,
which is well versed in the art and sci-
ence of providing comfort to all manner
of consumers, Pennington says.
He continues, Further, our pool of
global research/development personnel
and facilities offers an unparalleled abili-
ty to design, analyze, and innovate.
Beyond the fundamental capabilities in
mechanical, combustion, and thermal
design, the Lennox team has outstanding
depth in controls, indoor air quality, relia-
bility, and industrial design.
Combining these Lennox global
resources with a new research/develop-
ment team in Nashville, Lennox Hearth
Products is poised to deliver unique
and differentiated products, with mini-
mum time to market and maximum
value, Pennington adds. Our new
team has great insight into this market
and embraces the exciting prospects of
providing must-have fireside products
of all types.
Green says that Kingsman Fireplaces
advantage is exclusivity. We brought out
our modern collection for the specialty
hearth dealers, and were protecting them
now by not overpopulating other dealers.
Thats the strength of our Marquis collec-
tion. Were only selling it to specialty
hearth dealers, and at the end of the day,
they are the ones selling the product into
renovations, he reports.
FUTURE DESIGNS
Overall, the future seems bright for
contemporary designs. I think the con-
temporary portion of the hearth indus-
try is growing, Ivey says. Adding to its
growth is the combination strategy of
blending contemporary with traditional
styles. You dont need to have a futuris-
tic white house for a contemporary fire-
place to fit in, he adds.
In short, contemporary design is for
everyone. It has become accessible to
the masses, Sidoroff concludes. The
basic elements of contemporary design
have not changed since Frank Lloyd
Wright put his uniquely U.S. influence
on it. The people who are drawn to it
realize there is a fine line between what
is acceptable and what is great.
wicker
and more
rom Sunshine Wicker and Designs beautiful, award-winning
showroom in Pompano Beach, Florida, Mary LaManto not only
assists clients in furnishing their South Florida homes, but also
routinely decorates the Caribbean vacation homes of customers
located throughout the country. While working with island clients is a
large part of LaMantos job, it is just a portion of a broad range of prod-
ucts and services that Sunshine Wicker and Design offers its clients.
Started by Ray LeFebvre, who began the business in 1981 by selling
wicker baskets at local flea markets, Sunshine Wicker and Design has
grown to offer a wide selection of wicker and rattan furniture pieces
and accessories, with an emphasis on tropical and coastal design. In
2005, LaManto and her husband, Carl, purchased the business.
They added 2,000 square feet to the existing 5,000square-foot
showroom to accommodate an increase in outdoor-furniture offerings.
In 2008, the couple moved the store to another 8,000square-foot
showroom about two miles away; it has an attached warehouse, which
has helped to streamline operations.
SHOWROOM AND SERVICE SHINE
Sunshine Wicker and Design was a 2010 award winner (for best use
of accessories in the single-store category) in the 10th annual Casual
Living Merchandising Awards. The store was noted for having a variety
of themes, patterns, and color combinations and for creating an attrac-
tive mixture of accessories (without looking overdone). The store is
decorated to the nines, yet is very clean and laid out in such a way that
it is a pleasure to walk through,Mary LaManto says.
Sunshine Wicker and Design specializes in offering an array of fine
furniture and accessories for every room of the house. For the interior,
customers find sectionals, sofas, and all types of seating, as well as home-
office furniture, dining tables, buffets, entertainment centers, and bed-
room groups. Ample options in deep seating, lounging, and dining are
available for the outdoor room.
LaManto has high standards regarding what products she places on
the showroom floor. She focuses on midrange to high-end price points,
making some slight adjustments to that business model when the econ-
omy warrants. The last couple of years have been a bit more challeng-
ing, so we did introduce some introductory price points, but we still
maintained that level of quality that we demand. If I wont put a prod-
uct in my own home, I wont put it in the showroom,LaManto says.
The store carries some of the best brands in the casual industry,
including Lane Venture, Ebel, Ratana, NorthCape International,
Whitecraft, Windward, and Braxton Culler. LaManto comments that a
popular trend that she sees in the outdoor casual market is movement.
We have so many vendors that are offering gliders, swivel gliders, or
recliners; people love anything that moves,she says.
In addition, she is noticing that more customers are replacing their
outdoor dining sets with deep seating pieces. All-weather wicker is also
gaining ground each year, especially in Florida. People here are con-
cerned with how a piece is going to hold up in the climate, and out-
door-wicker furniture does very well,LaManto says.
The LaMantos believe in taking a service- and solution-oriented
approach to doing business. One of the owners (or Carls brother, Joe,
f
Left: Sunshine Wicker and Designs
award-winning showroom features a
vast selection of high-quality wicker
and rattan furniture and accessories
for every room of the house, both
indoors and outside.
Below: Originally established in
1981, Sunshine Wicker and Design
was purchased by Carl and Mary
LaManto in 2005.
Sunshine Wicker and Design offers
a wide mix of tropical, casual, and
comfortable designs. by KIMBERLY RODGERS photography by MIKE ZIMMERMAN
marketing
MANEUVERS
A LOOK FOR EVERY HOME
CNTEMFRARY TRANSTNAL TRADTNAL
AWARD WINNING
ELECTRIC TECHNOLOGY
HPBA
Space # 4116
www.classicame.com
* Patent Pending
LED rechnology inrroduces o new level ol reolism ro rhe elecrric
lreploce, ond eliminores rhe use ol rrodirionol incondescenr 6ul6s.
Digirol luncrion indicorors* illuminore when ocrivored 6y rhe
mulri-luncrion remore. A 4,00 worr, 1,350 BTU heorer provides
supplemenrol wormrh lor opproximorely 400 sq. lr. Accomponied
6y lurnirure quoliry wood monrels ond o 10 yeor worronry, our
elecrric lreploces ore sure ro exceed all expecrorions.
who also works in the business) is always on the floor
to extend a verbal warm welcome personally to every-
one who comes into the showroom.
We immediately establish that this is a relationship
and that we are here to help. We want customers to be
so overwhelmed with how well they are treated that
they will tell all their friends and neighbors about
usand come back, LaManto says. She also believes
that it is very important to educate customers so that
they are then able to make informed decisions about
their purchases.
LaManto, who has a background in art and computer-
aided design, provides design services for her clients,
whether or not they are local. Many of her long-distance
customers who live around the country request
LaMantos assistance in furnishing their second homes
in Florida or the Caribbean; she is able to provide them
with the same services as her local clients.
They are all busy people, and since they live in other
states, they cant come to the showroom. I start by hav-
ing a conversation with them on the phone to get as
much information as I canparticularly if they have any
likes or dislikes,LaManto says.
Customers start their furniture-selection process by
browsing through Sunshine Wicker and Designs web-
site, which clearly displays pictures and descriptions of
collections and accessories for every area of the house.
I have a lot of pieces on our website, so they can tell
me what types of furniture they prefer, LaManto says.
She will then narrow down the choices and begin an
email correspondence to finalize product selection.
Working from floor plans (or, sometimes, only meas-
urements) she is able to take these clients through the
interior-design process, from furniture selection to
placement, without ever having to leave her computer.
Once the frames and finishes are chosen, then we
show them the accent tables, accessories, lamps, and
rugs,she says. I take them through the process step by
step, so its not overwhelming.
STAYING STRONG
LaManto comments that the timing of the companys
move to a different location in 2008 wasnt optimal (in
light of the state of the economy), but in retrospect, the
new site brought in fresh business. There was a lot of
curiosity from people who thought we were a brand
new store and didnt realize we had just moved from
down the road. Now, we are on a busier street, so we are
getting a lot more walk-in traffic,she says.
The company saw a slight drop in normal activity dur-
ing the recession, but did not experience a serious hit to
business, LaManto says. No major adjustments were
made, and the company was able to maintain its entire
staff. She comments that the down economy made the
company take a good look at every aspect of the business
and eliminate the elements that were not working.
Coming out of it, I think it made us a lot better,she says.
When we took over the business, there was a
tremendous amount of telephone-directory advertising,
LaManto says. We knew we had to make some adjust-
ments, but decided to take a watchful approach before
making any changes. Over the past five years, LaManto
has gradually decreased telephone-directory commit-
ments, redirecting those advertising dollars to newspa-
per display advertising.
The company does not use radio or television adver-
tising, but it does pay special attention to the broad reach
of the Internet. Increasingly, the company has focused on
its website, making sure that it is well designed and easy
for potential customers to find on search engines. Its an
ongoing effort and something that you can never stop
paying attention to,LaManto says.
Since Sunshine Wicker and Design offers furnish-
ings for both indoors and outdoors, there is a lot of
crossover between the two segments. Indoor lines are
still the majority of the companys business, but the
outdoor market is growing at a healthy rate. While
there was always outdoor furniture in the store, we
really started to focus on it in 2006, and each year, the
numbers are starting to get closer. Outdoors is not too
far behind anymore, LaManto says.
T
he past two years have been very good
ones, in many ways, for Erwin & Sons
Direct Imports, Inc. Erik Dych, vice president,
says, The downturn in the economy caused
us to focus on our business and our produc-
tivity, as well as the direction we were head-
ing. Weve been able to review and stream-
line a lot of day-to-day operations, making
ourselves a much stronger company in the
long run.
The 27year-old, family-owned company,
based in Woodstock, Georgia, began in the
indoor-furniture industry, importing handcraft-
ed-rattan seating and bedroom furnishings,
handpainted cabinetry, and metalwork. It has
since continued to widen its high-quality
indoor offerings to include marble and granite
sink vanities.
In the late 1990s, however, Jim Erwin,
founder and president, saw tremendous
potential for all-weather resin wicker, and he
pioneered its introduction to the market. We
started out offering midrange to high-end
items at a competitive price. This established
our identity in the marketplace, Dych says.
Today, at every price point, Erwin & Sons
continues to lead the industry by providing its
customers with premium-quality products in
fashion-forward designs and finisheswith
superior customer service before, during, and
after the sale. As a direct-container importer,
the company offers its vast network of dealers
and distributors a wide array of value-driven
products.
We have all types of dealersfrom
pool/patio to landscape, high-end hardware,
boutique casual, and full-line retailerseach
with unique needs. Our assortment of styles
and price points helps to fill those needs,
Dych explains.
For that reason, Erwin & Sons has continued
to diversify, with over 25 outdoor collections of
seating, dining, and lounging furniture in wicker
and cast aluminum, in addition to Lightweights
mosaic-stone tabletops and the companys

newest addition, Wonderwood
faux-wood
seating groups and Adirondack chairs.
Another critical benefit to our dealers is
the option to mix a number of different all-
weather collections within a single container,
Dych says. Tailoring their order in this way
allows them amazing control over inventory.
Strong sellers include the timeless styles of
the companys Homecoming, Rejuvenate,
Daydream, and Refresh collections. We have
a number of go-to items that are priced very
well and are solid, proven sellers for our distrib-
utors. Our goal is to keep adding to those,
Dych says.
Several new groups are becoming best sell-
ers as well; these include the Relax, Four
Seasons, and Rendezvous collections. All come
with Leisureluxe
cushions and pillows, custom

ordered in over 200 fabrics from Sunbrella
,
Outdura
, SolarCone
, Richloom Solarium
,
Waverly
, and other manufacturers.

Erwin & Sons recently rolled out some of its
highest-end wicker lines ever. We are going
for the top of the customer base out there,
rivaling high-end manufacturers at very com-
petitive prices, Dych says. These new collec-
tions are deeper and larger in size, and they
feature special weave patterns and finishes
that are exclusive to each set.
For example, the sophisticated designs of
the Relax and Four Seasons groups feature a
braided weave with a multitude of blended col-
ors, creating a fresh, new look. Both groups
have been very well received.
Rendezvous, along with the also-new
Riviera group, features transitional and con-
temporary design; both are good examples of
the companys recent expansion into other
categories. We have worked hard to come
up with extraordinary styles at good price
points. They have both gotten a lot of atten-
tion, Dych says.
With Erwin & Sons, quality is never compro-
mised. Every collection we sell is contract wor-
thy. Whether you compare the quality of resin
extrusion, the thickness of aluminum fames, or
the 360-degree welding, our products can
stand up to any of the others, Dych says.
The future of the company is exciting, he
adds. We are working on quite a few new
product offerings for next year. We are not
focused on how to be the largestjust the
best. Our research/development is set on inno-
vation and on keeping our niche as a solid,
well-rounded manufacturer that is responsive
to our customer base, Dych says.
Erwin & Sons has a solid footing with its
diverse group of dealers and distributors locat-
ed throughout the United States (including
Puerto Rico) and Canada; much of its contin-
ued success can be directly tied to listening to
the needs of its customers and to providing
them with excellent service.
We have a loyal and long-term customer
base and a lot of people who trust us, believe
in us, and know us very well; 90% of our cus-
tomersfrom day one arestill with us. I
dont think many manufacturers can claim
that, Dych says.
marketing
MANEUVERS
One of Erwin & Sons newest
collections, Rendezvous, has
become a popular seller.
The new Relax collection from
Erwin & Sons features a braided
weave with a multitude of
blended colors.
The Retreat group comes
with plush Leisureluxe
cushions and pillows.

High-quality, Fashion-forward Designs
Attract Consumers by KIMBERLY RODGERS
Get the Selkirk
Advantage...
All Hearth Products Are Not Created Equal.
1.800.992.VENT [8368]
1.888.SELKIRK [735.5475]
selkirkcorp.com
For complete information
Direct-Temp
systems
for use with Gas or Pellet
Stoves. New Direct-Temp
for Multi-Fuel Stoves fea-
tures an AL29-4C Stain-
less inner liner for the
best corrosion resistance
available on the market.
Versa-Liner
is the most
versatile stainless liner sys-
tem around. Use high-end
common components with
erther rrgrd or ex |engths
in between. An optional
insulation wrap completes
the job the way you want
it done.
VP Pellet Pipe
includes a
304 Stainless Steel inner
liner and gasketed joint
system. VP is available in
either black or galvanized
nnrsh. Now |rsted lor on|y
1 clearance to combus-
tibles
F|exr-Lrner
is a tough
rip-resistant product built
with a unique seaming
process that allows an ap-
prox. 5:1 compressron ra-
tio for increased strength,
maxrmum exrbr|rty and
smaller cartons.
The Ultra-Temp
All-Fuel
Chimney features a unique
b|end ol mrnera| nber So|-
id Pack insulation which
provides superior insulat-
ing value to blanket-type
alternatives.
DSP
Double Wall Stove

Pipe features a stainless
steel inner liner &
insulating air gap to allow
only 6 clearance on all
diameters. Saf-T Pipe is
a heavy duty single wall
24 gauge black pipe.
Selkirk is the original innovator of prefabricated venting
systems. Over 85 years of manufacturing expertise ensures
our products, made from quality materials, have the
tightest tolerances and we back that with the industrys
best lifetime warranty.
Stainless Steel
Chimney Liners
Pellet-Pipe Flexible Aluminum
Chimney Liners
Stove Pipe Insulated Chimney
Systems
Direct Vent Pipe
for Gas, Pellet,
or Multi-Fuel
MAX! HE
+LJK(IFLHQF\
:RRGEXUQLQJ
)LUHSODFH
hearth
RETAI LER
he Fireplace Center & Patio Shop is
one of the largest and best known fire-
place and patio retailers in Canada. From
its impressive 11,000square-foot showroom
floor (merchandised using the latest outdoor
products) to its professional staff, the 59year-
old family business has become a landmark in
its hometown of Ottawa, Ontario.
Andy Cotnam, president and general manag-
er, is the son of the companys founder, Clifton
Cotnam. The younger Cotnam is proud of how
far the business has come, and he continues to
move it forward into 2011 with forethought,
enthusiasm, and a focus on customers.
In 1952, Clifton Cotnam began the busi-
ness by selling aluminum awnings in Ottawa.
A few years later, he diversified by adding pre-
fabricated homes and cottages (all of which
had fireplaces) and started doing business as
Colonial Homes. In the mid-1960s, he
branched out even further when he brought
in prefabricated, insulated metal chimneys by
Majestic Thulman, as well as Ashley wood
stoves and a number of fireplaces.
Over time, the fireplace segment grew, and
it became a very profitable part of his busi-
nessso much so, in fact, that in 1975,
Cliftons brother, Stephen, opened a second
location nearby as a fireplace center. They
eventually brought in patio furniture and grills
to supplement the fireplace business, and that
was the beginning of The Fireplace Center &
Patio Shop.
Today, the Cotnams have phased out
Colonial Homes to focus on the specialty
hearth and patio business. They run two suc-
cessful retail locations (in West and East
Ottawa) and a distribution department for
wholesale products (Advanced Prefabs, Ltd.),
in addition to supplying and installing fire-
places for custom residential new-home con-
struction in Ottawa. We feel that we have the
perfect mix with our three departments,
Andy Cotnam says.
t
Top: The Fireplace Center & Patio
Shop has created a strong brand
that resonates with customers who
expect product selection, quality,
and service.
Bottom: There is nothing ordinary
about the displays and products
found on The Fireplace Center &
Patio Shop's showroom floor.
For more than half a century, The Fireplace Center & Patio Shop
in Ottawa has been the go-to store for fireplaces and outdoor
products. by SHARON SANDERS photography by CYNTHIA MNSTER
spot
a
HOT
Monessen
For more information, visit monessenhearth.com
Stone
& Glass
Burner Kit
LIGHT UP
THE ROOM
(and then light the re)
Glass Burner Kit Log Burner Kit
(with black porcelain liner)
For more than the traditional gas log set, the Belmont Series from Monessen
provides stunning alternatives for the replace interior. Our beautiful glass kits are
available in ve luminous colors to create multiple looks for one replace. Or, go
nature-chic with our sophisticated stone kit. Paired with a black porcelain liner and light
kit, the appliance provides a showpiece that looks great even when it isnt burning.
GROWING THE BRAND
Over the past five years, the Cotnam family has
made some strategic decisions that have brought
The Fireplace Center & Patio Shop to the next level
in terms of visibility and branding. They expanded
their West Ottawa retail store (making it one of the
largest of its kind in Canada); put up high-profile
signs; and created a
large outdoor-liv-
ing display area, in
front of the store,
that has significant-
ly raised its visibili-
ty from the street.
We are located
on the second most
traveled east/west
thoroughfare in the
city (with an average
of 40,000 cars per
day), and one cant drive by the store without noticing it.
I thought the store was busy before, but now, our park-
ing lot is never empty, Cotnam says. The company has
taken full advantage of the space in the large front court-
yard area by building a gorgeous deck, shade structures,
a pergola, and an outdoor kitchen.
The Cotnams also park their signature 1950 bright
yellow Chevrolet Suburban on the front driveway. The
vintage truck is a staple in local parades and at golf
tournaments and other community events. We have
become known for our vehicles, whether those are
our branded delivery trucks or our classic Suburban,
Cotnam adds.
The Cotnams have also expanded The Fireplace
Center & Patio Shops online presence. In 2010, they
hired an Internet marketing consultant to redo the
companys website, changing it from a mediocre site
that was designed and run by a family member into a
slick, professional sales/marketing tool.
In todays Internet age, a companys website is the
face of its business because people will check out the
site before they even visit the store. It has to reflect the
image one wants to portray to the public, Cotnam
explains. He is also preparing to go live on Facebook and
Twitter. He adds, Im a dinosaur when it comes to social
media, but since I have help, I think we have been able
to put some really good tools in place.
A BETTER EXPERIENCE
From day one, the driving force behind everything
that The Fireplace Center & Patio Shop does has been
its customer base. The entire team is constantly think-
ing of new ways to improve the retail experience.
When it comes to the showrooms, Cotnam says, We
want people to see beautiful things that excite them
when they walk through our front doors.
The West Ottawa store not only is expertly merchan-
dised, but is one of only three showrooms in North
America that displays the Napoleon Swarovski special
edition modern linear fireplace. This $10,000 fireplace,
a joint venture between Napoleon and Swarovski
Crystal, features flames that come through a bed of
crystals. Everyone comments on how unique it is, and
I think it gets people thinking differently about fire-
places, Cotnam says.
On the second floor, the showroom has a large elec-
tric-fireplace display area with more than 40 fireplaces.
The striking centerpiece is a 95-inch linear, wall-
mounted electric fireplace by Modern Flames. There
are hearth dealers who wont touch electric fireplaces
because they think that everybody is buying them
from the big-box stores,Cotnam says. We have such a
great selection that customers who buy them from a
big-box store in the morning come back and get some-
thing of better quality from us in the afternoon.
He explains that electric fireplaces constitute a
much bigger market than retailers realize, and that he
sells at least a couple of electric units a week to people
who live in condos, high-rise buildings, and retirement
homes. They can be installed anywhere, and people
buy them no matter what time of year it is, he adds.
The store also has a wide selection of grills, which
have become quite popular in recent years. During the
past summer, sales were up almost 50%. Cotnam has
found that the best way to get people excited about
grills is to fire one up and cook on it. Customers love
to smell and sample food hot off the grill. I was sur-
prised at how something so simple could be so much
fun for customers, he says.
The Fireplace Center & Patio Shop experience is
not just about its showroom and products. It is also
about its knowledgeable, experienced staff members
and the environment that they create for customers.
We want customers to feel comfortable in our stores,
knowing that we will listen to them and give them
good advice. We never want to pressure them into
making a purchase, Cotnam says; he is quick to jump
onto the sales floor and personally greet shoppers,
when needed.
He adds, We have to remember that we are work-
ing in peoples homes, which are their castles. They
are putting a lot of trust and faith in us, and we want
to uphold that. Its the culture of our businessand
they know that our entire team cares.
In describing what has made The Fireplace Center
& Patio Shop what it is today, Cotnam (without hesi-
tation) says, great employees, high-quality products,
and uncompromised client satisfaction.
hearth
RETAI LER
Andy Cotnam
by SHARON SANDERS
H
itzer Inc. is known for the detailed Amish craftsman-
ship of its wood and coal stovesand thats not just a
marketing claim. Every weekday morning, the company
sends a 15-passenger van to a nearby Amish community in
Adams County, Indiana, to pick up seasoned craftspeople
who are part of families that have been making Hitzer
stoves for 35 years.
They spend the day working at the companys factory in
Berne, Indiana, assembling stoves by hand, and then the van
takes them back home at night. Dean Lehman, general man-
ager and son of the companys founder, Claren Lehman, says,
We are a big family that takes pride in every stove we make.
Hitzer began in the early 1970s as a small blacksmith shop,
making wood and coal stoves for local Amish homes. Its sim-
ple (yet powerful) stoves were designed to heat entire homes
and large workshops.
Hitzer made a name for itself as a local stove shop with out-
standing heating products and family-friendly service. In 1975,
Claren Lehman and a few of his brothers saw an opportunity
to take the business to the next level, and they formed a part-
nership with the Amish that became Hitzer Inc. The original
shop remained, and the Lehmans set up a new factory a short
distance away.
Lehman remembers that the first Hitzer Inc. stoves were
basic black boxes, with no frills and no blowers (because the
Amish use no electrical power), but the stoves were workhors-
es that could easily heat entire homes. I used to tell people
that theyd have to look long and hard to find something to
out-heat a Hitzer stove, but they wouldnt have to look far to
find something that could out-look one, Lehman says.
Over the years, the Lehmans added glass doors, brass
trim, and blowers to many of the stoves, but they have been
diligent in maintaining the original heating and burning princi-
ples. Our stoves are still workhorses, but weve fancied them
up a little bit, Lehman explains.
In the 1990s, Hitzer introduced its first gravity-fed coal hop-
per, which became an overnight favorite with its customers.
The hopper takes advantage of gravity to feed coal into a
stove, instead of using mechanical/moving parts, so it can
operate even during a power outage.
Best of all, it provides hours of continuous, even heating,
and it requires little or no maintenance. Today, Hitzer has 13
stoves in its lineup (including several versions of the gravity-
fed coal hopper); they are sold across the United States. The
companys biggest market is from Indiana eastward and up
into New England.
Two years ago, in an effort to give its products more precise
control, Hitzer decided to enter the coal-stove stoker market
with its 608 Energy Master I stoker. In one giant leap, we
went from being handfired to using one of the top-of-the-line
stokers on the market, Lehman says. Hitzers stoker, with its
integrated Coal-Trol thermostatic control, speeds up or slows
down the firing rate to maintain an even temperature. We like
to call it cruise control for your coal stove, Lehman says.
This year, the company is taking the next big step by
adding a stoker furnace to its product line: the stoker hot air
furnace. The furnace can be installed in the basement of a
house, and the homeowner will be able to control the heat,
feed rate, and blower from a thermostat inside the house.
The furnace will have a higher Btu output than the free-
standing stoker. Lehman says that hes already had a number
of dealers ask about the furnace, and it hasnt even been intro-
duced to the market
yet. I know its going
to become a fast
favorite, he says.
While Hitzer is
proud of its heritage of
making handtooled
products, it is equally
proud of its personal
service. Lehman and
his father make it a pri-
ority to visit their dealers regularly to find out how to improve
their products and service.
My dad, who is 78, still takes a road trip every spring to
spend time with our dealers, Lehman says. He adds that
whenever possible, the family will even deliver stoves person-
ally. Its generally with my dad, my son (Jason), or me,
because it gives us a chance to talk to dealers, rather than just
hiring a truck driver to haul the products, he explains.
The company also owns two display trailers (with eight
mounted stoves) that the Lehmans use in late summer
through early fall. Dealers love it when we show up at one of
their open houses, a county fair, or a local town festival to
demonstrate our stoves. The best part is that we do it free of
charge because it shows our dealers that were here to sup-
port them, Lehman says.
The Lehman family has enjoyed much success in its busi-
ness over the years, and is careful not to grow too quickly.
The bottom line is not necessarily our number-one goal. Our
stoves make warm friends, and that will always be our
biggest reward. The bottom line will take care of itself,
Lehman says.
Hitzers Heaters Feature Amish Craftmanship
Hitzer Stoker
coal stove
model 608
outdoor
GRI LLI NG
up
By combining their talents, two Tucson entrepreneurs have developed a successful
business model. by KIMBERLY RODGERS photography by HOLLY ROMERO
Top: The beautiful mountain
ranges of Tucson often serve as a
backdrop for many of Arizona
Grill & Hearths outdoor kitchens.
From design to installation, the
company provides all the essential
elements needed to create an
inviting and livable outdoor space.
Bottom: James Molis (left) and
Val Romero, owners of Arizona
Grill & Hearth
teaming
ucson, Arizona, residents dont need to travel
3,000 miles to experience the true Hawaiian
spirit of aloha. Thanks to Val Romero and James
Molis, the friendly, welcoming attitude associated
with island life can now be found at Arizona Grill &
Hearth. Life is more about relationships, versus the
sale or money. We have a whole different type of
philosophy, Romero says.
Romero, who has been in the hearth and grill
industry since 1993, started Arizona Grill & Hearth
in September 2005 because, he says, I knew I could
do things differently and a lot better, and I also want-
ed to be my own boss.
Molis, who has also been in the industry since
1993, worked for a company that installed fireplaces
for national homebuilders (he also owned his own
hearth business). Since both were in the same indus-
try, they had bumped into each other frequently
over the years, and they began talking about com-
bining their efforts. They did so in June 2010, when
Molis joined Romero as a partner. We knew, if we
combined our strengths, we could be awesome at
what we do, Molis says.
Since Romero and Molis joined forces, sales have
exploded for Arizona Grill & Hearth. We each had
our own customers, but now that we are together,
business has quadrupled, Molis says. Romero adds,
James and I have a nice balance, and we both have
a tremendous passion for what we do. I love fire-
places, barbecue grills, and the retail end, and he
loves fireplaces and the service aspect of the busi-
ness. We complement each other very well.
GRILLS, HEARTHS, AND MORE
Barbecue season lasts all year in the Southwest,
and with its huge selection of products and services,
Arizona Grill & Hearth can meet any outdoor-cooking
need. The company carries a range of high-quality
grills and accessories from manufacturers that include
Fire Magic, Broilmaster, American Outdoor Grill,
Vermont Castings, Solaire, Jackson Grills, and OCI.
Hearth products represent an even larger share of
the business. From wood-burning and high-efficien-
cy gas fireplaces to vented and vent-free models
along with firepits, gas logs, stoves, and inserts
Arizona Grill & Hearth carries a range of traditional
to contemporary styles. They come from some of
the best names in the industry, including Monessen
Hearth Systems, Lennox Hearth Products, Avalon,
Mendota, and Osburn.
In addition to selling grilling and hearth products,
t
When homeowners decide to add a fireplace
to an outdoor space, they often lean toward
the installation of a prefabricated unit for
convenience, quick assembly, and what they
presume will be a lower cost (compared with
that of a custom-built fireplace). For dealers
and retailers who want to offer their cus-
tomers the beauty, quality, and durability of
a true masonry unit, however, Stone Age
Manufacturing offers the perfect solution.
Since 2005, the Collinsville, Oklahoma, com-
pany has offered outdoor masonry fire-
places, in easy-to-assemble kits, at a com-
petitive price.
Owners Bob and Joe Rider, third-genera-
tion masons, bring the company 30 years of
experience and hands-on knowledge of the
construction of fireplaces built from scratch.
They first engineered, produced, sold, and
installed both indoor and outdoor masonry
fireplace kits in 2001, through their business,
Rider Stone Company.
After obtaining UL 127 certification (for
factory-built fireplaces), they formed Stone
Age Manufacturing, in 2005, to manufacture
and sell a complete line of masonry kitsfor
indoor and outdoor areasthrough dealers
nationwide.
Stone Age Manufacturing fireplaces can
be used in any outdoor-living space; they
give homeowners the many advantages of
owning a masonry fireplace without lengthy
construction times, at a cost that is competi-
tive with that of prefabricated
models. Every fireplace
comes delivered and pack-
aged on one palletin an
easy-to-assemble kitwith
all the parts and materials
needed to build a complete fireplace (includ-
ing lightweight modular masonry pieces, a
set of legs, firebrick to line the firebox, and
detailed instructions).
The fireplaces exterior is designed to be
finished with the
customers own
choice of products,
which can include
natural thin-veneer
stone, full-veneer
stone, fabricated
stone, brick, stucco,
or any other con-
crete surface. For
the professional,
installation takes
approximately four
to six hours; beginners can build a unit in about
a weekend.
All Stone Age Manufacturing fireplaces
come with a 25-year industry-leading warran-
ty and have been designed and constructed
using exacting engineering standards and
materials. Joe Rider, the companys president,
says, When building masonry fireplaces
from scratch, there are precise measurements
and formulas you must abide by in order for
the fireplace to perform properly.
Stone Age Manufacturing fireplaces fea-
ture premier-quality reinforced refractory
concrete that is durable in all climates, an
extra-deep firebox
for superior draft
performance, and
an open-air throat
design that results
in enhanced fire-
box draw. Rider
says that a mason-
ry fireplace has the
greatest longevity
because it will
endure harsh cli-
mates, and it wont
rust, rot, or deteri-
orate like the
metal fireboxes
found in many pre-
fabricated units.
Rider also notes that prefabricated fire-
places have often been designed for interior
use, and they dont perform as well in an
outdoor environment. The boxes are small
and have a lot of smoke spillage when burn-
ing wood, and many are gas only and not
able to burn wood at all, Rider notes. Any
unit that is wood burning endures extreme
heat and has to be able to take more abuse
over the lifetime of the product. Stone Age
Manufacturing has fireplaces that are
specifically designed for indoor use and a
specific design for outdoors.
Fireplaces are available in three sizes (with
24-, 36-, and 48-inch firebox openings) and in a
variety of models. Buyers are able to customize
a fireplace in a number of waysby varying the
chimney height, the size and shape of the fire-
box opening, and the exterior stone. In addi-
tion, the company offers kits for firepits, pizza
ovens, outdoor kitchens, and arbors.
All of Stone Age Manufacturings prod-
ucts complement one another and can be
integrated for a complete and professionally
designed outdoor-living area. When build-
ing an entire outdoor room, the advantage is
that the finished product seamlessly flows
together to give the appearance that it is a
natural extension of the home, Rider says.
Since 2005, Stone Age Manufacturing has
steadily increased its distribution network of
independent hearth/patio retailers, land-
scape and hardscape companies, and con-
tractors to more than 200 dealers, offering
them strong support. The companys two
websites (in general and dealer-only versions)
include various easy-to-follow construction
videos, product information, an expanded
photo gallery, and sales tools.
In 2011, the company will release new soft-
ware for dealers that will enable them to
show each product in a 3D, animated version.
This will give dealers the opportunity to cus-
tom design each outdoor-living space by
moving and arranging all the products in any
order they desire. The software will also
show animated assembly construction of
each individual item so that a new installer
will see and understand where each piece in
the kit is located and how it all fits together,
Rider says.
The company received huge national
exposure when a Stone Age Manufacturing
firepit was featured on the Today show in
March 2009. Stone Age Manufacturings
products are also prominently featured in sev-
eral programs on the DIY Network.
The exposure Stone Age Manufacturing
received from the Today show seems to
have given our products a certain amount of
credibility that has helped generate leads
and make sales, Rider says. We saw a big
increasenot only in direct phone calls, but
as an overwhelming amount of traffic on our
website. Our dealers around the United
States received a lot of exposure from being
linked to our website.
Left: Fireplaces from Stone Age Manufacturing are
available in a variety of models and firebox sizes.
Far left: All Stone Age Manufacturing fireplaces
are UL 127 certified and are designed and man-
ufactured using strict engineering standards to
provide years of service.
Bottom center: Stone Age Manufacturings fire-
places are available in a three sizes and a vari-
ety of models, including this unit with a 36-
inch firebox opening.
Bottom left: Purchasers can customize all Stone
Age Manufacturing products (like this outdoor
fireplace and kitchen island, in stucco with stone
accents) with their choice of finish selections.
Giving Outdoor Fireplaces
a
Custom Look by KIMBERLY RODGERS
outdoor
GRI LLI NG
outdoor
GRI LLI NG
Arizona Grill & Hearth can design and install full-scale
outdoor rooms that include all the essential ele-
mentsfrom prefabricated and custom-built kitchens
to fireplaces, fire features, and stonework. We can
provide everything to complete an outdoor area for
the home, from start to finish, Romero says. He notes
that this segment of the business is growing. People
are not spending money on elaborate vacations, but
instead, are making an oasis right outside the back
door, he explains.
No matter what the size or scope of an outdoor
room might be, Arizona Grill & Hearth takes the same
approach. We go to customers homes with a portfo-
lio of our work, determine what products and acces-
sories they want to incorporate, and walk through the
design process with them according to each individ-
uals unique needs, Romero says.
Remodeling indoor fireplaces is also an expanding
part of the business. People are taking out the old,
inexpensive builders-box fireplace that came with the
home and replacing it with one that stands out, to
change the look of the house, Romero says.
Customers are also installing fireplaces in blank walls,
niches, or recesses of their houses.
For all its construction work, Arizona Grill & Hearth
serves as the general contractor and hires individual
licensed contractors for framing, electrical, gas, and
plumbing work. We only use specialists who are
experts in what they do to help us complete a proj-
ect, Romero says. The company also sells and services
garage doors and central vacuum systems, and it pro-
vides service and repairs for grills, fireplaces, stoves,
gas logs, and firepitsno matter where the products
were purchased.
WELCOME, FRIENDS
Customers, potential customers, friends, family
members, and acquaintances have the opportunity to
experience Arizona Grill & Hearths welcoming busi-
ness philosophy firsthand at the companys monthly
backyard barbecue parties, which are held at
Romeros house.
Over the years he has been in the industry, Romero
has collected a variety of grills and dazzling fire fea-
tures, and he has opened his backyard to serve as an
outdoor showroom for the company. We give poten-
tial customers the opportunity to test drive a grill,
Romero says. Attendees bring their own main course,
and Arizona Grill & Hearth supplies all the side dishes;
spices, seasonings, sauces, and rubs; and soft drinks
and water.
Customers cook their own meat or poultry,
Romero says, so that they can try one of seven grills
and experience the different features and benefits of
the various products. We direct them toward a grill
and give them guidance on food preparation, but we
dont cook for them. We want them to try out the
grills, he says.
Partygoers are even encouraged to cut a steak in
half so that they can experience the unique differ-
ences that each type of grill brings to a cut of meat. In
addition to the conventional gas and charcoal models
that most customers are familiar with, Romeros back-
yard showroom also has equipment that many guests
have never seen (giving them a chance to test their
barbecue skills at the next level): a pellet grill, a smok-
er, and an infrared grill.
Romero and Molis invite friendly customers who
come into their showroom, area real-estate agents,
and other people they meet who seem likely to enjoy
the parties. Its a great way for all of us to network
and also show off all of our products, Molis says.
Romero adds, People dont buy anything at the par-
ties. They are social events and are more about having
a relaxed time.
He continues, Our company has grown on the
spirit of aloha. Its something that is very important to
me. Its about a way of living and treating each other
with love and respect. In addition to the barbecue
parties (which have become a great form of market-
ing), the company also uses in telephone-directory
advertising and attends home shows.
The partners approach to doing business is a big
reason that sales are booming. Its a go-go society, and
the personal touch seems to have left a lot of places
so for every customer encounter, even if it is just an
estimate, we send out a thank-you card for the oppor-
tunity. If we sell the job, we send another thank-you
card, Romero says. Molis adds, We are starting to run
out of thank-you cards.
Since the partnership created a surge in business,
space is getting tight at the companys main show-
room. The floor has grills, fireplaces, and an outdoor
area that has some items stacked to the ceiling. We
are outgrowing our showroom and looking at some-
thing bigger. Business is phenomenal; we are very for-
tunate and very blessed, Romero says.
Besides welcoming everyone they meet with the
spirit of aloha, the two partners also attribute much of
their success to their companys strong customer-serv-
ice ethic and timely turnaround on projects, as well as
their emphasis on one basic concept: Keep the cus-
tomer happy. That is everything, Molis says.
hen James Emigh opened his
hardware store in 1908 in down-
town Sacramento, California, he was
content to sell tools and provide his cus-
tomers with attentive service. Today, 103 years later,
the business has grown to be more than one of the
most high-profile hardware stores in the Sacramento
area: Its sister store, Emighs Casual Living, has devel-
oped a loyal following of its own. What the four gen-
erations of the Emigh family have learned, over the
years, is that offering the right products (and caring
service) can make or break a business.
After 75 successful years (and after moving the
store to the Sacramento suburbs), the Emighs decid-
ed that it was time to take the family hardware
store to the next level. They joined forces with
Ace
Hardware Corp. in 1973, changing the stores

name from Emigh Hardware to Emigh Ace
Hardware.
It has since become one of the largest Ace
Hardware stores in Northern California, with a nurs-
ery and garden center, a housewares department, a
key-cutting room, and a 6,000square-foot store
within a store for Benjamin Moore
Paints. The
next big evolution of the business was its venture
into casual furniture.
Brian Lawrence, vice president and fourth-gener-
ation owner, says, While hardware was our primary
business, we had always dabbled in patio products
to a degree, with basic dining sets and seating. He
explains that Emigh Hardware was one of the first
dealers in the area to carry the Weber
kettle grill
in the 1970s. We always wanted to expand that
part of our business, but didnt have the showroom
space, he says.
In 2000, the family made its official transition
into the casual-furniture business when it took
over the lease of a furniture store adjacent to its
hardware operation, expanding the patio show-
room from 3,000 square feet to an expansive
12,000 square feet. This was the birth of Emighs
Casual Living, and the family was excited finally to
have the space to do whatever it wanted, in terms
of products and merchandising.
Lawrence remembers that when Emighs Casual
Living first opened its doors, the showroom was
filled with low-end, imported merchandise to keep
price points low (like those of the products sold at
the hardware store). We discovered our mistake
pretty quickly when products were breaking and
coming back for service left and right, he
explains. As business has steadily grown over the
past 10 years, the store has evolved into a source
of fine patio furniture, with products from manu-
facturers that include Brown Jordan, Tropitone, OW
Lee, and Gloster.
Once we started carrying high-end merchandise,
we found that it was what our customers really
wanted anyway, Lawrence says. The showroom is
expertly merchandised with every outdoor-living
product one could ever need, from furniture to
firepits.
Whenever possible, Emighs Casual Living tries to
support domestic vendors because consumers are
starting to demand it, hoping that this will bring
jobs back to the United States. We had one shopper
who examined every shovel in our hardware store,
looking for one that was made domestically,
Lawrence recalls.
He admits that business has been challenging,
over the past few years, because people are more
hesitant to make large purchases. We continue to
train our salespeople in how to explain to shoppers
the value of buying high-quality products that are
backed up with service. Once customers under-
stand the facts, they are much more likely to make
the decision to buy from us than from a big-box
store, Lawrence adds.
SERVICE COMMITMENT
From day one, the entire Emigh team has made
no mistakes when it comes to providing upstanding,
caring customer service. Lawrences great-grandfa-
ther, James Emigh; his grandfather, Colby Emigh; and
his parents (Colbys daughter, Mary, and her hus-
band, Richard Lawrence) have all made service their
number-one priority, in each generation. Thats how
showroom
SHOWCASE
ties
Business boomed after this fourth-generation retailer
added casual furniture to its product mix.
by SHARON SANDERS photography by SCOTT ZOELLER
Family
W
we made it in the hardware business and,
now, in the patio business, Lawrence says.
The companys mottoWhere service has
been a tradition since 1908appears on
signs above all store exits.
Service is something that the Emigh team
lives byand that its customers have come
to expect. We are constantly talking about
service with our team because we have to
get better at it every day, Lawrence says. At
weekly staff meetings, Emighs Casual Livings
general manager, Craig Franklin, reads every
customer compliment and complaint to
department managers who, in turn, share
that feedback with their staff.
Retailers all can sell the same products,
but if you can impress upon customers that
they are important, they will shop with youand stay
with you. In these times, this is ultra important,
Lawrence says, adding that standout service truly starts
with hiring the right people. We spend a lot of time in
the hiring process making sure we find a good fit,
which usually involves at least three interviews. Sure, it
can be exhausting, but in the end, its worth it, he
explains.
The company hires people based on their attitudes
(but not necessarily their experience). They will be
representing your business, and if you are preaching
customer service, you have to hire people who share
your philosophy, Lawrence adds.
THE NEXT NICHE
Emighs Casual Living continues to look for new
ways to grow its business by seeking out niches in the
local market. One venture that has been successful is
its annual Christmas store. Every December, the show-
room floor is transformed into a holiday spectacle with
over 30 decorated trees, and prelit trees by the truck-
load are shipped to the store to sell. People come from
all over the Sacramento area to shop and enjoy the fes-
tive displays.
Emighs Casual Living is planning to expand the
Christmas store even more this year. Many of the small
Christmas shops have closed down in our neighbor-
hood. We feel that theres opportunity to bring in more
holiday collectibles, which will attract shoppers who
are looking for unique holiday gifts, Lawrence
explains.
Most recently, Emighs Casual Living expanded its
hearth and grill presence. We are looking for niches
that make sense for us, and we feel that the hearth area
is one that is underserved in our market, Lawrence
says. The store has begun to sell fireplace inserts (pri-
Left: Emighs Casual Living is always
working to fill niches in the local
market. Its popular Christmas store
gets new and current customers to
visit during the holidays.
Below: Emighs Casual Livings team
members are the heart and soul of
the business: from left, Mary Jacobi,
Carolyn Sweeney, Melissa Nicholson,
Diana Uyeda, and Brian Lawrence.
marily gas models), as well as some
pellet stoves.
Lawrence says, We invested the
money to do it right, with custom
displays, and I think its going to pay
off; we are already starting to sell
more gas logs to customers who
come in and see them glowing on
the showroom floor. The grilling
business also shows promise.
Emighs Casual Living now car-
ries a number of niche barbecue
lines, including grills from Big Green
Egg
, Traeger
, Fire Magic, and

Weber, in addition to rubs, sauces,
and specialty items that customers
have requested. Lawrence explains
that the ability to bring in and try
new items that customers specifical-
ly request is one of the positive
aspects of being a small business.
The company has even instituted
a formal program, called yes slips, to
gather requests. If a customer asks
for a certain product, the request is
written on a yes slip and then dis-
cussed in the weekly managerial
meetings. When we are in touch
with our customers, were able to
offer products they really want,
Lawrence says.
THE FUTURE
As Emighs Casual Living contin-
ues to look for ways to grow its
business, it sees vendor-partner rela-
tionships to be more important
than ever. We need our representa-
tives and vendors to support us by
stopping in regularly, both to edu-
cate employees on new products
and to help showcase their brands
to our customers. Its a winwin for
both of us, in the end, Lawrence
explains.
Emighs Casual Living is also hop-
ing to attract younger clients via
social media like Twitter and
Facebook, and there are plans to
redesign the stores website. Last
year, Emighs Casual Living hired a
company to drive business to its
website using Google search. This
has produced such good results
that the arrangement will be con-
tinued throughout 2011.
The entire Emighs Casual Living
team is excited about what the
future holds. Lawrence says, Im
looking forward to a good 2011. I
think it will be better this year
for us and for the entire casual-fur-
niture industry.
Whats Underfoot
Matters to Couristan
showroom
SHOWCASE
by SHARON SANDERS
T
here is a certain sense of luxury that a fully decorated
outdoor room exudes. Todays sophisticated fabrics and
materials have made it possible for anyone with a little
imagination to create a relaxing backyard retreatfilled with
furniture, appliances, lighting, and accessoriesthat mimics
the ambience of any indoor room.
If one were to build an outdoor space, from the ground up,
with comfort and style in mind, the foundation would undoubt-
edly be a luxurious area rug. Couristan, Inc., based in Fort Lee,
New Jersey, offers weather-resistant rugs that pull together all
the elements of an outdoor room and set the tone for the over-
all design theme.
The rugs not only are beautiful, but also are practical in that
they protect wooden decks from the wear and tear of heavy
foot traffic and shield bare feet from sun-scorched tile.
Consumers everywhere are seeing the value that area rugs can
bring to an outdoor space.
A LASTING STATEMENT
Couristan has been passionate about floor coverings (area
rugs, wall-to-wall carpeting, and custom floor-covering fash-
ions) for over 80 years, and the company is revered in the
industry as an icon of style and quality. With the advent of the
outdoor room, the company has become a major name in the
indoor/outdoor rug category. While outdoor area rugs can be
found everywhere from home-improvement centers to special-
ty retailers, not all rugs are created equal.
Buyers need to know what they are spending their money
on, according to Larry Mahurter, director of advertising and
marketing for Couristan. The companys standards for all of its
products are the highest in the industry. It uses only 100%
Courtron
polypropylene for the surface and backing of all its

products, and it uses ultraviolet-stabilization methods for
color retention.
We construct our outdoor floor coverings entirely of
polypropylene because it is the only way we can ensure that
they are water, mold, and mildew resistantand they are
100% recyclable, Mahurter explains.
Durability is only one part of the equation when it comes to the
attributes of a high-end outdoor rug: Design is also important. As
outdoor furnishings have become more sophisticated, Couristans
product-development team has followed suit with its rug offer-
ings. The primary design drivers for Couristans outdoor/indoor
area rugs are outdoor furniture, fabrics, and accessories.
Every element has to work hand in hand to complete a
room, Mahurter says. He explains that because many home-
owners and designers are bringing the upscale look of their
interiors to outdoor-entertaining areas, Couristan has really
been pushed to develop outdoor floor fashions with a more
sophisticated aesthetic, replicating that of rugs typically
found indoors.
Accessibility is also a key factor in developing new prod-
ucts for the outdoor-rug category, Mahurter adds. Our
assortment not only represents the latest trends and fashion
classics, but we are mindful of offering our products at a variety
of attainable price points as well.
NEW FOR 2011
Couristan now offers seven diverse outdoor/indoor area-
rug collections (Covington, Bayview, Five Seasons
, Outdoor
Escape, Recife, Tides, and Urbane), and it recently introduced
three new residential broadloom products designed for out-
door/indoor use.
Couristans newest outdoor area-rug assortment is the
Outdoor Escape collection, which has unique novelty appeal. It
pays homage to natures purest pleasures with picturesque
renditions of various outdoor scenesincluding beach land-
scapes, lighthouses, and seashellsthat are reminiscent of
treasured vacation spots or outdoor hobbies.
The rugs feature precise handhooked construction, and
each design in the collection showcases a textured loop pile
that adds dimension to the motifs. These rugs are the perfect
backdrop to complement themed decor.
The company has also added three new outdoor/indoor
residential carpet products to its Creations
brand: Antigua,
Martinique, and Bonaire. These weather-resistant carpets are
woven of Couristans 100% Courtron polypropylene for the
ultimate in durability and comfort.
Featuring a structured, flat-woven construction, each of
these simple broadloom rugs offers a slightly different aesthet-
ic, with varying high/low textured patterns. Reflecting the
sandy shorelines of exclusive beaches, Antigua, Martinique,
and Bonaire are available in a selection of four neutral hues,
including dune, bronze, pewter, and cobblestone.
For home decorators who like to personalize their spaces,
all three of these outdoor carpets can be ordered in custom
sizes. Custom rugs use Couristans selection of 100% Courtron
polypropylene binding tapes (which are offered in nine comple-
mentary tones).
As Couristan expands its outdoor-product lines, its brand-
ing efforts are becoming even more sophisticated, communi-
cating lifestyle imagery that showcases its products in upscale
outdoor settings. The company is working on new merchan-
dising units that not only display its outdoor products, but also
provide consumer education on the benefits of using
polypropylene rugs in outdoor spaces, on care and mainte-
nance, and on recycling.
Couristan is optimistic about the future of the outdoor-rug
category and is pleased to be a part of its evolution. We plan
to continue to investigate and create new construction tech-
niques that add luxury, comfort, and durability to outdoor fash-
ions, Mahurter says.
Covington
Emighs Casual Living
has successfully
expanded into grills
and grill accessories.
Urbane
Top: Kamado Joe is carving out its own
niche in the ceramic-grill category.
Middle: Bobby Brennan, cofounder and
president, Kamado Joe
Bottom: Kerry Coker, cofounder and vice
president, Kamado Joe
amado Joe is a company
that was founded on a pas-
sion for grilling. After just two
years in business, the fledgling ceram-
ic-grill company, based in Flowery
Branch, Georgia, has turned that pas-
sion into profit. The company now has
14 distribution partners, and its prod-
ucts are sold by over 600 retailers
across the United States and Canada.
At the end of 2010, the companys
sales were up over 300%. Kamado
Joes cool products and fresh, edgy
approach to marketing have retailers
giving it space on their showroom
floors alongside the biggest names in
ceramic grills. Patio & Hearth
Products Report sat down with
Bobby Brennan, cofounder and presi-
dent, to find out what makes this lit-
tle company tick.
How was Kamado Joe
born?
Brennan: I wish I could say there
was some grand strategy, but Kamado
Joe basically came about because my
business partner (Kerry Coker) and I
had an itch to start our own busi-
ness, after working together in the
corporate world for many years. In
the course of meeting with our busi-
ness broker, he gave us one piece of
advice that we took to heart: Make
sure you start something that you are
passionate about, he advised us.
We are both passionate about
golfing and grilling, so after tossing
around seven or eight ideas, we
decided to start a ceramic-grill busi-
ness. We began developing our
kamado-style ceramic grill in the
summer of 2008, and we unveiled it
to the public for the first time at
HPBExpo in Reno, Nevada, in
March 2009.
At the show, we introduced one
grill, in one size and one color
(red), and four accessories. Today,
weve expanded our product offer-
ings to include a black grill, several
different trim options (black or
stainless steel), and number of dif-
ferent accessories. Its been a crazy,
fun ride, so far.
Why do you think there is a
place for a small company
like Kamado Joe in the
ceramic-grill market?
Brennan: I think that the more
entrants there are in the ceramic-
cooking category, the better off we all
will be. The biggest problem the cate-
gory is facing, in my opinion, is that
ceramic grills are not well known by
the majority of consumers. They
account for a mere 1% to 2% of over-
all dollars spent on barbecues.
I think part of the visibility prob-
lem is the fact that the category has
been dominated by a few large play-
ers for many years. To me, competi-
tion is what keeps a category
vibrant. I foresee a category with six
or seven companies that can all
carve out their own little niches.
More competition is good because it
will force all of us to innovate and
differentiate.
As the size of the category grows,
consumer awareness will grow. We
actually encourage our retailers to
carry every brand of kamado-style
grill on their showroom floors so con-
sumers can choose the one that best
meets their needs.
What do you think put
Kamado Joe on the map?
Brennan: I think people are
attracted to us because we are a fun,
innovative company that is trying to
carve a niche for itself. I like to say
that we are trying to be the Apple of
our category, and at this point, I
think our marketing and service
reflect that.
Our goal, at Kamado Joe, is to be
remarkable. I know thats a strange
word, but we think that the fastest
way to grow a small business is to
have a remarkable product and offer
remarkable service. In todays
Internet-based world, if you give a
customer a product that is worth talk-
ing aboutor do something for a cus-
SEE I T
as i
Kamado Joes sizzling
success is the result of
two business partners
love for outdoor grilling.
by SHARON SANDERS
k
passion
equals profit
tomer that causes him or her to talk
about youthe word is going to spread.
What has your priority
been over the past two
years?
Brennan: Since we launched our
grill, our emphasis has been on develop-
ing a distribution network and a dealer
network in North America. We knew we
wanted to go for two-step distribution,
and our priority has been partnering
with the best distributors and the best
retailers in both the United States and
Canada.
In order for our distributors to be
successful, weve provided them with
the marketing tools and programs they
need to get people excited about our
brand. Weve developed some great
print marketing materials and point-of-
sale displays, a dynamic website, and a
strong Facebook presence.
To support our dealers, we developed
an online marketing library for them so
they can access our brand elements
(such as logos, product and lifestyle pho-
tography, and print-ad templates). We
also offer free design and marketing, if
they have a specific need.
Why are your website and
Facebook page so important
to who you are as a company?
Brennan: Our website is focused
just as much on educating people and
getting them excited about grilling as it
is about our products. It also allows us
to see who our customers and poten-
tial customers are. The first thing I do,
when I wake up every morning, is go
online and see how many people visit-
ed our website the previous day, where
they are located, and what they are
looking at on our site.
The Internet levels the playing field
for a small company like ours, and it
allows us to offer content (and con-
nect with our market) in exceptional
ways. We listen to our market and look
for ways to offer valuable content.
For example, we received a number
of requests for instructional videos
and a source for recipes this year. That
inspired us to create a Getting Started
video series that we placed on our
website and on YouTube. We also cre-
ated a DVD loop of the videos for our
dealers to play in their stores.
We launched our recipe library in
late 2010. It allows viewers to submit
a recipe with up to six photos, a
video, ingredients, and instructions.
Each viewer can also add his or her
name and location, along with the
type of grill he or she uses. We list the
top 28 grill manufacturers, including
makers of other ceramic grills. To us,
its all about the passion for outdoor
cooking, not whether you use our
grill. Viewers can also search for
recipes by category or keyword, so its
quickly becoming a community of
people who share our passion.
Another feature thats unique to our
website is an online grilling guide. We
discovered that there is not a lot of
detailed information for consumers,
when it comes to comparing grills so
they can find the one thats right for
them. We compare briquette-charcoal,
gas, and ceramic grills across 12 differ-
ent criteria.
We wrote the guide ourselves, but
we were careful to give the pros and
cons of each method and let the viewer
decide. We must have filled a need; it
has the fourth-highest page views on
our website. The videos are not ground-
breaking, but Im confident no other
grill company is offering similar con-
tent, with respect to our recipes and
grilling guide.
Our Facebook page is an open forum
for people who love to grill (many of
whom are not even Kamado Joe cus-
tomers). It gives them a place to go to
share ideas, opinions, and advice. We
monitor our page hourly, and we are
quick to respond to questions, requests,
and comments.
We have noticed that some grill com-
panies ignore or delete critical com-
ments on their pages. We do not. We also
respond to posts on nights, weekends,
and holidays. Our fans dont keep busi-
ness hours, so we feel its important to
connect when its convenient for them.
Any business that is not taking advantage
of this amazing tool is missing the boat.
What advice would you give
outdoor-living retailers who
want to get customers excited
about grills?
Brennan: The easiest way to sell
any grill is to cook on it. People are
naturally intrigued byand drawn to
the aroma of cooking food. They may
come into a store looking for patio fur-
niture, but if someone is grilling out-
side, people will want to check it out;
most manufacturers will offer deep dis-
counts to their retail partners who
want to use their grills for demos.
Retailers may be surprised at how
many people have never tasted food
cooked on a ceramic charcoal grill.
What Kamado Joe product
are you most excited about
for 2011?
Brennan: We are going to be intro-
ducing the next generation of the
Kamado Joe grill this year. It is 35%
taller and wider than our classic grill,
with a 2.5inch-thick ceramic core (to
retain heat) and a sophisticated hinge
that will make it easy to open and shut
the dome lid. It is going to be our high-
end grill, which will match up, in looks
and quality, to a grill from any of the
large manufacturers.
To touch every price point, we will
be developing a lower-end option this
year as well. I also believe that there is
opportunity for innovation within the
ceramic category beyond small, medi-
um, and large, so we are excited about
doing some different things in the
future as well.
Apply online to become a dealer at: KAMADOJOE.COM
Evolutionary and Revolutionary.
The Next Revolution in Grilling is Here.
Other than size and color, Kamado grills have
essentially remained unchanged for over 40 years.
Until today.
Introducing the new Revolution Series by
Kamado Joe. The rst in our line of innovative
grills is the Pro Joe. It carries a larger cooking
area, higher thermal retention and more
precise temperature control. Not to mention an
ergonomic and aesthetic design that maximizes
eciency and makes this grill a true work of art.
See the new Pro Joe by Kamado Joe at the
HPBExpo at booth 4405.
f it werent for the Miles family of
Vancouver, British Columbia, gas
fireplaces in North America might
not be what they are today. In the
early 1980s (after the family had been
in the wood-burning fireplace business
for a number of years) Garry Miles, the
family patriarch, traveled to England.
There, he sawfor the first timea
gas fireplace that wasnt just a decora-
tive element in a room: It was actually
used for warmth. Gas fireplaces in
England produced heat with radiant
plaque burners and provided zone
heating for boxy English row houses.
Excited about their practicality, Garry
began importing Valor brand fireplaces
from England to Vancouver in 1981.
Paul Miles, who (along with his
brother, Martin) manages Miles
Industries, says, As it turned out,
Vancouver was the first market to
embrace gas fireplaces on the conti-
nent. Today, one will notice that due
to the early success of Valor, there
are quite a number of British
Columbia-based companies in the
gas-fireplace business.
Gas fireplaces became a big hit, in a
short time, because they provided com-
fortthrough radiant heat and zone
heatingthat no one in North America
had ever experienced before. Miles
Industries sold Valor gas fireplaces
exclusively to specialty retailers (as it
still does, to this day). We have relation-
ships with dealers that go back 30
years, Miles says.
After importing fireplaces for 15
years, Miles Industries eventually
moved production to Vancouver,
where it now manufactures its own
products. The company owns the
Valor brand for North America.
CONTINUING THE EVOLUTION
Gas fireplaces have evolved in a way
that the Miles family could never have
predicted. They have become a staple
in the hearth industry and a favorite of
consumers. Over the past few years, the
aesthetics of fireplaces have become
much more important to consumers.
Miles attributes the shift to the fact
that home/garden-oriented television
programming has caused homeowners
to start looking at home decorating dif-
ferently, even when it comes to their
fireplaces. People know they dont
have to settle for a standard builder fire-
place anymore, Miles says, adding that
this trend has
inspired fireplace
manufacturers such
as Miles Industries to
offer many more
options, styles, and
colors than ever
before.
We arent like
the furnace guys,
who are selling a
piece of heating
equipment that will
go in the basement
and never be seen.
Were selling techni-
cal heating products
that sit right in the
middle of a room
and that are often
the centerpiece of
design. Sure, people
have technical expectations, but a fire-
place also has to fit with the overall
design theme, Miles says.
The company recently introduced
Valor has set new standards in gas-fireplace efficiency,
comfort control, and fashionable design. by SHARON SANDERS
my
TURN
leading
i
the way
Top: Integrating contemporary design with
efficient Valor heat, the H4 is one of Miles
Industries most versatile fireplaces.
Above: Paul Miles, Miles Industries
Right: The Valor Legend G4 gas insert
features a large glass viewing window.
my
TURN
its new Valor Legend G4 gas insert, which is the big
brother of its highly successful Legend G3 insert. The
G4 features a large glass viewing window and a sleek
silhouette that doesnt include grills and louvers. Our
design challenge is to get the heat out of the fireplace
without it looking cluttered, Miles says. The company
has several more models coming out in the second half
of 2011 as well.
Gas fireplace manufacturers are feeling more pres-
sure not only to stay current with design trends, but to
advance their fireplaces technically. The U.S.
Department of Energy (DOE) is pushing manufacturers
to create products that are greener and more efficient.
The DOE wants to see higher efficiency numbers,
Miles explains.
Miles Industries has developed a new energy-saving
pilot system for its gas appliances that it will introduce
on its G4 gas insert this year. The system automatically
shuts off the pilot light if a fireplace isnt used for a
specified period of time.
Many homeowners dont realize that they should
turn the pilot light off on their fireplaces, especially in
the spring and summer. If they dont, they are wasting
about $10 worth of gas each month because the pilot
light is not doing anything other than emitting a small
amount of unnecessary heat, Miles says. The company
plans to incorporate the system in its entire line of gas
appliances over the next few years.
The company has also developed a new technology,
called a dynamic restrictor, that automatically controls
the amount of air going through a fire-
places firebox; this, in turn, maximizes
its efficiency. The restrictor is built into
the new Valor G4. Homeowners wont
even know its there, but they will reap
the benefits that more efficiency brings.
THE FUTURE
Im encouraged that the U.S. market
is showing signs of a rebound, Miles
says. The Canadian market was actually
very good last year. It recovered from
the recession much more quickly than
the U.S. market did. We are seeing a lot
more optimism from all of our dealers
in the United Statesand because thats
the biggest market in the world, its
exciting to see.
Miles is also optimistic about the
availability of natural gas. Five years
ago, people were saying that the natu-
ral-gas supply was low, and they were
worried about what was going to hap-
pen when it was gone. Thanks to new
drilling technologies, in just two years,
the United States alone went from hav-
ing a very small reserve to having 100
years supply.
There is an abundant supply of natu-
ral gas everywhere, and its a clean fuel
that is going to be important to a green
future for our environment. Miles says,
We like to call it the champagne of
fuels because short of burning pure
hydrogen, you cant get a commercially
available fuel thats any cleaner than nat-
ural gas.
Miles Industries plans to continue to
make attractive, efficient products that
people will be proud to use to heat their
homes. I believe that specialty retailers
have the future of gas fireplaces in their
hands. They are the ones who can show
consumers whats possible, not the
employee who works at a big-box retail-
er, Miles says. Its our job, as a fireplace
manufacturer, to develop innovative
products that are worth selling. Circle Reader Service No. 44
I believe that specialty

retailers have the future of
gas fireplaces in their
hands. They are the ones
who can show consumers
whats possible.
M&G DuraVent
DuraVent is the leading chimney and vent
manufacturer in North America, ofering
complete venting solutions to the industry.
DuraVent excels in technology, research
& development and continuous product
improvement. New innovations are
brought to the market regularly.
Since venting is our only business, turn
to DuraVents highly skilled experts to
develop components to OEM specs, from
custom design and proto-typing to testing
vent systems to the demands of specifc
appliances.
See how the power of DuraVent can make all
the diference in the world for your business.
Power of Engineering
Powerful Solutions
Powerful Connections
M&G Group www.m-ggroup.com M&G DuraVent, member of the M&G Group 800-835-4429 www.duravent.com
Visit us at HPBA booth #1821
See new products of the future.
RememberWhats under the ame makes all the difference
SM
Over 2,000 stocked items and products for fast delivery
877-585-9800
hearthproductscontrols.com
1 NEW Fire and Water Series in beautiful hammered copper. 40x40x18".
A 25" CSA approved re pit drops in.
2 NEW 5, 6 and 8 ft. long Fire Troughs with Hot Wire Ignition.
2, 3 and 4 ft. sizes, too.
3 NEW Ultra Wide Fire Rings in stainless steel with raised hub and
staggered port drilling. 12x6", 18x9" and 24x12" sizes.
4 NEW Remote TK Torches. Robust, reliable, electronic ignition torches with
adjustable ame. In black, brushed copper and brushed silver.
come to
the source
for the ambiance your customers want
SEE US AT
HPBExpo
March 35
Indoor Booth 1610
Outdoor Booth 6220
1
2 3
4
aking a cue from Betty White, Empire Comfort
Systems (which is nearly 80 years old) is tweet-
ing its way to a resurgence of popularity, and Nick
Bauer, one of several fourth-generation family mem-
bers to work there, is proud of how far the company
has come.
Bauer, vice president of product development,
has worked at Empire Comfort Systems (Belleville,
Illinois) since he graduated from college. His grand-
father, who founded the company in 1932, worked
there for more than 50 years, and his father has
worked there since the 1980s. Now, there are even
more family members involved, and that is exactly
what Bauer says sets Empire Comfort Systems apart
from its competitors.
There are not a lot of family-owned companies
in my industry anymore. I am extremely proud of
us, he explains. From a competitive standpoint,
Empire Comfort Systems customers know the
owners. They see me, my sister, my mother, and my
father. They know they can call; they dont have to
go the upper-management route or through a maze
of voice mail. They talk to a person.
Bauer points out that three of Empire Comfort
Systems sales representatives are even second-gen-
eration staff. He says, Were loyal to our employ-
ees, and were in this for the long term. Were not
trying to make a quick buck. My goal is to make
Empire Comfort Systems successful enough that
my grandson can run the company, eventually.
To that end, Empire Comfort Systems manufac-
tures both hearth products and grills; 12 independ-
ent sales representatives sells everything from
heaters and hearth products to Broilmaster grills
(and anything else that comes under the Empire
Comfort Systems name). Its a nice balance.
Bauer notes, Historically, our slowest months
are June and July. In fact, up until 10 or 15 years
ago, business was so slow that we would take
off an entire month in the summer. Now, sales of
Broilmasterand a more efficiently run organi-
zationkeep the companys sales sizzling all
summer long.
MR. BROILMASTER
Despite having such a long history, Empire
Comfort Systems is among the most up-to-the-
minute companies in the industry, actively making
the most of todays social media (such as Twitter
and Facebook). So important is social marketing to
Empire Comfort Systems that the company has
enlisted the help of one of its marketing gurus (who
loves grilling) to be its spokesperson: Mr.
Broilmaster.
Mr. Broilmaster is a newly married expectant
father who regularly posts recipes online, in addi-
tion to promoting grilling. He cooks three to five
nights a week and shares his experiences (both suc-
cesses and failures) with more than 350 fans on
Facebook. It was a conscious effort, on our end, to
get people talking about the brand, Bauer says.
There are a lot of loyal Broilmaster people out
there who hold onto their grills for 15 to 30 years.
According to Bauer, Broilmaster owners are
loyal fans and ardent grillers who want to share
their stories. Of the fan mail that
the company receives, he says,
95% is about Broilmaster. Mostly,
we receive expressions of thanks
and positive stories. Having a
venue on Facebook and Twitter
gives these fans a forum for shar-
ing their stories.
Recently, for example, Mr.
Broilmaster asked Facebook fol-
lowers to post stories and photos
of their old Broilmasters. One fan
said that his father had given him
his Broilmaster as a wedding gift;
now, he was passing it down to
his son. The grill is about 37 years
old and is quickly becoming a fam-
ily heirloom.
It is really cool. I recommend
all our Broilmaster dealers get on
Facebook and post their own pic-
tures, as well as food they are
cookingand see the stuff Mr.
t
Right: Empire Comfort Systems
30-inch Loft burner, with clear
frost decorative glass, in the 42-
inch Breckenridge Deluxe flush-
face firebox
Bottom left: Mr. Broilmasters
Facebook page
Bottom right: Empire Comfort
Systems Loft vent-free fireplace
with decorative glass front
years young
Family-owned Empire Comfort Systems uses social media to reach
customers in novel ways. by CHERYL DANGEL CULLEN
product
I NNOVATI ON
SEVENTY-EIGHT
Broilmaster cooks, Bauer notes, adding
that Empire Comfort Systems will occa-
sionally reward Facebook fans with
goodies like free T-shirts to drum up
excitement.
This online activity isnt necessarily
about boosting sales. An uptick in sales
is not the goal, Bauer explains. We
want it to translate into more sales, yes,
but if it doesnt, thats okay, too. Were in
this business because we like creating a
high-quality product the consumer
enjoys, and as long as you do that, the
sales will come.
VALUE EQUALS SALES
Even the sluggish economy hasnt
dampened sales. Weve been fortunate
that our hearth products are priced at
the value end, so our hearth products
have done quite well the past two
years. The Broilmaster brand is a higher-
priced brand that is seeing a lot of stiff
overseas competition, so it hasnt held
up as well, but it hasnt fared poorly,
either. The hearth stuff is just outper-
forming our wildest expectations,
Bauer says.
Weve been extremely fortunate, the
past few years, to be in the position we
are in currently. Our business model is
to produce a high-quality, U.S.-made
product at a value price, Bauer
explains. We really feel that we are hit-
ting the consumer who cannot afford
the $3,000 to $8,000 fireplace and is
looking for the $500 log set and $1,200
fireplace. Our consumer is looking for
heat and a reduction in heating bills.
Bauer continues, We dont produce
40% efficient heating products that cost
$5,000 and only offer a big flame and
no heat. Our model is to produce high-
quality, efficient products. We found
that we are positioned well for the con-
sumer who is trending down; it worked
really well last year. This year, were see-
ing more consumer confidence but
buyers still want value for their money.
Credit isnt as easy to get as it was a few
years ago.
One avenue that Empire Comfort
Systems is pursuing is the promotion of
environmentally friendly products, and
the company is investing money in
Mantis, its family of green products. With
an efficiency rating of more than 90%,
Mantis is the only direct-vent fireplace
on the market that vents with PVC
pipe, Bauer says. It really is the most
efficient fireplace that you can currently
buy. It takes the same basic idea of a
high-efficiency central furnace and adds
decorative flame and logs to it.
Empire Comfort Systems goal is to
add one to two new products to the
Mantis line every year, using the same
green thinking that made the line take
off at its launch. A new, contemporary
unit will be introduced in March 2011.
LOFTY ASPIRATIONS
The companys first foray into con-
temporary fireplace design was the
introduction of the vent-free Loft, a con-
temporary fireplace (with a single lin-
ear burner) that was launched in March
2009. Priced economically at $550 to
$800 for the burners and $1,300 for the
fireplace system, the Loft is wooing
homeowners who love the $5,000 linear
products that they see in hotels, but can-
not afford to install in their own homes.
At present, Empire Comfort Systems
offers three vent-free Loft products. In
2011, it will add nine new products to
the Loft line, including two outdoor
units. Among the new products (to be
introduced in March) will be direct-vent
Loft products. Compared with other
direct-vent products, They may not
have all the bells and whistles, but they
wont have the huge price point either,
Bauer says.
Other introductions for 2011 will
include a new outdoor fireplace and
additional clean-face products. With all
these product introductions in the
works, staff members of Empire Comfort
Systems research/development depart-
ment could probably use a breather.
Theyve been doing quite a lot of
work. There are never enough hours for
how many products we want, but they
do an amazing job, Bauer says, adding
that in 2011, Empire Comfort Systems
will introduce more products in a single
year than ever before. Well actually
double the number of products weve
introduced in any one year, he says.
In the next few years, Bauer hints,
big things are in store for Empire
Comfort Systems. He says, Were going
to some very exciting places in the next
few years. The brand will always be
Empire Comfort Systems, but were pur-
suing aggressively filling in the holes
with new products. Some of our com-
petitors have laid low for the past few
years; we havent.
Bauer continues, Weve invested a lot
in our future for the long term. The
economy is going to get better, and we
feel we should invest during the down-
turn so that were ready for the
uptick.
apoleon, long known for its grills
and fireplaces, is shaking up the
industry with its entrance into
the casual-furniture segment.
Why did the company do it?
Diversification is the reason, according to
David Coulson, national manager of advertis-
ing for Wolf Steel Ltd./Napoleon Appliance
Corp. (Barrie, Ontario). It is helping our
dealers, particularly in the outdoor division.
We can offer our customers one-stop shop-
ping, he says.
Coulson, who has been with the company
for 10 years, says that the move was a natu-
ral. The company already offered outdoor
patio heaters, patio torches, gas firepits, fire-
places, stand-alone grills, and modular
islands, so furniture was simply the next
step. Now, we can outfit a customers entire
backyard, he adds.
Its all part of a much larger marketing strat-
egy that helps to even out what would other-
wise be an uneven business. Case in point:
Despite the economic downturn, sales at
Napoleon are holding their own, Coulson says.
The hearth industry, as a whole, is down;
were just coming out with new, innovative
products and new product lineslike the new
casual-furniture line and new grill products
which is how weve adjusted. Were diversify-
ing. If grills are down, we have another prod-
uct mix to come up with, he notes.
This strategy is paying off, it seems. Other
manufacturers have been tightening their
belts, but Napoleon just added 75,000 square
feet to its manufacturing facility in
Crittenden, Kentucky.
Adding a casual-furniture line to the mix
wasnt something done on the fly. Napoleon
had been looking into the possibility for some
time. Wed been asking a lot of questions of
our dealers and customers and doing our
research, Coulson explains. Ultimately, we
came up with the line that we have, which
really helps out our customers. They dont
have to go with three or four suppliers to get
everything they want. We can do the whole
outdoor room.
The new line includes loungers, dining sets,
and recliners with aluminum frames and wick-
er; they incorporate fiber materials that are
weather resistant. There are nine sets available
now, representing a mix of contemporary and
traditional styles. Some pieces feature a high-
back look, while otherssuch as the Monaco
collectionare more contemporary, with a
low profile.
Also catching attention is the design of
the furniture itself (and the fact that it is not
linear). The Roma set includes two sofas that
curve in yin-yang style, with a cushioned seat
that fits like a puzzle piece between the two.
Top: Napoleons Napoli
furniture provides seating and

a coffee table.
Center, left: The Roma collection includes a
curved, yin-yangstyle set that is anything but linear.
Center, right: David Coulson, national manager of
advertising, Wolf Steel Ltd./Napoleon Appliance Corp.
last
WORD
branchingout
By adding a casual-furniture line, Napoleon can now offer one-stop shopping.
by CHERYL DANGEL CULLEN
N
TESTING THE WATERS
Last year, Napoleon dipped its toe
in the water and introduced a few
pieces to get an initial reaction; then, it
jumped in wholeheartedly, this sum-
mer, with its official launch. Reaction
has been positive, Coulson says.
Orders have been coming in; weve
got the line available, and people have
been happy with it.
The target customer for the new
line is, in Coulsons words, someone
looking for better quality. Our con-
sumer is not the person shopping at a
big-box store or department store. It
is the individual who wants to spend
a bit more money for better-quality
furniture that will last longer. You
wont get a four-piece set with a nice
table for $1,200. Were priced for the
person willing to spend $3,500 to
$3,900 or so, depending on the set.
An advantage of that higher price is
the added benefit of being able to use
the furniture indoors or outside. It
isnt restricted to outdoor use,
Coulson says, while noting that the
weather-protection system used on
the fabric holds up really well. That
feature alone is a big selling point
with families outfitting their family
rooms with furniture that will look
good, yet stand up to use by children.
It didnt take long for Napoleons
dealers to adapt to the new line. Most
already sell casual furniture, the differ-
ence being that some of Napoleons
dealers have been accustomed to sell-
ing a higher-end product. To educate
them about the new line, Napoleon
supports them with brochures, an
information-packed PowerPoint
presentation, and plenty of details on

the companys website.
Our sales representatives have
talked to them about the quality
more than anything else, and they
stress that the product is for some-
one who will invest and buy a better
product, Coulson notes, adding that
the furniture is priced not at the
highest part of the high-end sector,
but in the middle-to-high range. He
says, Were not at the $10,000 to
$12,000 range. More than anything
else, qualityat that levelis the
same. It has more to do with a differ-
ent style, and the fact that we offer
one-stop shopping.
OPTIMIZING FLOOR SPACE
Often, the most difficult part of
selling casual furniture is choosing
what to display, which can be a fac-
tor of available floor space. Most
often, an existing casual-furniture
retailer will have the floor space.
Someone new to the category might
not, but should show at least three
sets, Coulson suggests. He recom-
mends displaying the Roma collec-
tion because, he says, It is the one
that everyone gravitates to because it
is kind of funky looking.
Next, he suggests, add a more tra-
ditional style (like the Napoli collec-
S
u
n
b
r
e
lla

is

a

r
e
g
is
t
e
r
e
d

t
r
a
d
e
m
a
r
k

o
f

G
le
n

R
a
v
e
n
,

I
n
c
.
5 0 YEARS GOES FAS T WHEN YOU HAVE A L OT
OF GOOD F RI ENDS PUS HI NG YOU F ORWARD.
www.sunbrella50.com
tion) and a dining collection, such as
Lisbon. That mix gives a retailer a
variety of different styles. Pool/patio
or hot-tub dealers who also sell grills
wont have a ton of floor space, so
we recommend they show these
three, Coulson says.
Napoleon gives advice like this to
its dealers when they want it; the
company also listens to the advice
that its dealers give to it. That,
Coulson says, is the key to its success.
Our dealers let us know what they
are looking for and what their cus-
tomers are looking for; it all comes
back to our dealers and their cus-
tomers. Our dealers are on the front
lines and talking with consumers, so
we listen to our dealers and distribu-
tors very closely, he reports.
Outside its new casual-furniture
line, at this years HPBExpo in March
in Salt Lake City, Utah, Napoleon
expects to introduce some new fire-
places, in addition to a new HVAC
line of whole-house ductless air-con-
ditioning and furnace systems.
If something else just sparks, well
look into it, Coulson says. We can
be talking with a dealer or distributor
who points out something that is
lacking in a category and suggests
there is a need, and well start think-
ing, We should be in this category.
Well do some research and engineer-
ing and go from there.
H Series
The H series hybrid unit features heavy-duty, combined stainless-steel and
cast-aluminum end-cap head construction. The burners and cooking grid are of
commercial-quality cast-iron construction. The Fire Maxx ignition system is
truly amazing. The units are fully assembled; just attach the side shelves,
hook up the natural gas or propane, and you are ready to rock. The units are
in stock and ready to ship for spring. They are sold to and through
independent dealers only. Contact: George Speicher or Pete Arnold
at (949) 474-3070.
The Ledge
From Valor
Balancing seamless design with
crisp profiles, the Ledge features a
beautiful collection of three
complementary finishes. Available in
black, brushed nickel, and artisan
patina, the Ledge is Valors latest
addition to the highly successful
Portrait series gas-fireplace family.
Contact: www.valorfireplaces.com.
SunBriteTV: Model 5510HD
In an effort to expand its market reach, SunBriteTV recently introduced two new televisions to its all-
weather outdoor-product line. SunBriteTVs high-end introduction is model 5510HD, which sports a 55-
inch, 1,080-pixel full HD LCD screen with a refresh rate of 120 Hz. This television is ideal for homeown-
ers who are looking for home-theaterquality viewing in their outdoor spaces (see page 79 for
SunBriteTVs other new product). Contact: (866) 357-8688 or www.sunbritetv.com.
Florence Wicker Sling
Gensun has added wicker sling styles to the
already-popular Florence collection. Combining cast
aluminum and woven wicker, these additions bring
together beauty and comfort second to none. The
high-back design of the dining chair, swivel rocker, and
love-seat glider makes relaxation on your patio the
choice of family and friends. The collection also offers
swivel barstools and balcony stools, a chaise, and a
wide variety of tables. Contact: www.gensuncasual.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
303 Products
AEI
Agio
Alfresco Home
American Fireglass
Belgard
Big Green Egg
Big Woods/Stellar Hearth Products
Breckwell
Bull Outdoor Products
Bungalow by E-Z UP
California Outdoor Concepts
Caluco
Casual Creations
The Companion Group
Couristan
Crest Foam
D&J Architectural Precast
DiversiTech
Domus Ventures
DuraVent
Earths Flame
Ebel
Elmira Stove Works
Empire Comfort Systems
Enviro
Exhausto
FiberBuilt Umbrellas
firegear
FMI Products
Galtech International
Gensun Casual Living
Glen Raven/Sunbrella
Gloster Furniture
Golden Blount
The Hammock Source
Hargrove Manufacturing
Hart & Cooley
Hearth & Home Technologies
Hearth, Patio & Barbecue
Association
Hearth Products Controls
Highwood
Hitzer
The Holland Grill Company
Homecrest
Hudson River Stove Works
Infratech
International Casual Furnishings
Association
International Pool/Spa/Patio Expo
Ironhaus
Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet
Kamado Joe
Kenyon International
Kingsley-Bate
Lennox Hearth Products
Mallin Casual Furniture
Marth
The Merchandise Mart
Miles Industries
Minden Grill
MLW Stone
Modern Home Products
Monessen Hearth Systems
Mors
Napoleon Products
NorthCape International
Omega Mantels
Onward Manufacturing
Outdoor Lifestyle
Outdura
OW Lee
Oxford Garden
Pacific Energy/Town & Country
Palm Springs Rattan and Garden
Classics
Peak Season
Protg Casual
QuickDryFoam
Ragasco USA
RH Peterson
Rinnai
SCHOTT ROBAX
Security Chimneys
Select Outdoor Kitchens
Selkirk Corp.
Shademaker
Simpson Dura-Vent
South Sea Rattan
Summerset Outdoor Living
SunBriteTV
Team Grill
Telescope Casual
Treasure Garden
TUUCI
Two Dogs Designs for Outdoor
Living
Tyler Retail Systems
Wittus
WoodMaster
WoodPellets.Com
ZipJack Custom Umbrellas
In some respects, these words are nothing more than an adverb and an exclamation. When used together in a sentence, however,
they convey a powerful message of heartfelt thanks and appreciation. With that thought in mind . . .
Please allow us this opportunity to say thank you to the companies (listed below) that advertised with Patio & Hearth Products Report
in 2010. We greatly appreciate your business. Its your advertising support that allows us to deliver P&HPR to the patio, hearth,
barbecue/grill, outdoor-kitchen, and outdoor-living industry.
Heres wishing all of our loyal advertisers continued success in 2011.
All the best,
The staff of Patio & Hearth Products Report
Please and Thank You
G
LO
STER
K
A
LA
M
A
ZO
O
O
U
TD
O
O
R
G
O
U
RM
ET
G
EN
SU
N
C
A
SU
A
L
LIV
IN
G
IRO
N
H
A
U
S
A
G
IO
K
A
M
A
D
O
JO
E
H
EA
RTH
&
H
O
M
E
TECH
N
O
LO
G
IES
M
ILES
IN
D
U
STRIES/
V
A
LO
R
F
IREPLA
C
ES
R
H
P
ETERSO
N
C
O
M
PA
N
Y
E
M
PIRE
C
O
M
FO
RT
S
YSTEM
S
N
A
PO
LEO
N
P
RO
D
U
CTS
O
U
TD
O
O
R
LIFESTYLE
www.peninsula-media.com
Follow us on
Twitter: @patiohearth
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Indoor
Forced-air
Furnace
The APEX-CBT indoor furnace
has an average efficiency of
87.2% and a low heat value
efficiency of 90.7%. Its perfect
as a stand-alone unit or as an
add-on to an existing furnace
system. The ultraclean-burning
unit produces only 3.3 grams
per hour and is from the
catalytic experts. Contact: (509)
522-2730 or
www.blazeking.com.
Firepit by
Bradford
Lifestyles
Bradford Lifestyles
offers a selection of
UL-approved firepits to
extend your
backyard-living season.
With solid granite or
marble tops and a
selection of finishes,
Bradfords firepits are a
beautiful addition to any
backyard or patio. These
elegant firepits are
available with glass or
lava rock, and they feature two different covers. Just add the propane tank
and enjoy. Bradford also offers a selection of accessories, from lazy susans to
larger 54-inch tops. Expand your outdoor lifestyle. Contact:
info@bradfordlifestyles.com.
IGL-26
Glass
Log Set
Stellar Hearth
Products
(a brand
of Big Woods Hearth
Products
, Inc.)
introduces a stunning
new, modern gas log
set, the IGL-26 glass
log set. Using reflective ceramic-glass logsalong with accent lighting on the
burner and front grategreatly enhances the flames and lights by reflecting
the images throughout the firebox, giving you countless iterations of the
flame. The IGL-26 features 44,000 Btu of flame and fits into most masonry
and prefabricated wood-burning fireplaces. With lighting from below, the
edges of the glass logs are illuminated, enhancing the look whether they are
burning or not. Optional reflective firebox panels are also available. Contact:
(952) 224-4072 or www.stellarhearth.com.
Arrington Deep Seating
Elegance and presence come together with the Arrington deep seating collection,
one of the bold new looks from the Agio
collections. With comfortable deep seating

cushions, frames with oversized scrolled arms, and beautifully functional
tempered-glasstop tables, Arrington gives your customers the looks that create the
perfect setting for outdoor entertainment. Contact: www.agio-usa.com.
Half-inch Glass Colors
American Fireglass is excited to introduce its line
of all-new half-inch glass colors. Through testing,
American Fireglass has discovered that
half-inch glass burns cleaner and more
efficiently. Customers can choose from a
full line of half-inch reflective and standard
glass. Contact: (888) 264-1017 or
www.americanfireglass.com.
The First-
ever
Electric-grill
Island
Galaxy Outdoor is pleased
to announce one of its newest
products: the first-ever
electric-grill island, featuring
the Dimplex grill. The island is
only 21 inches wide by 48
inches long, and it includes a
granite top, a stucco base,
wheels, a large storage area
under the grill, and a
16x20-inch stainless door.
This unit is great for
apartment or condo living and is approved for use by most homeowners associations.
Dealers introductory cost is only $995. Contact: (702) 448-5600 or
www.galaxyoutdoor.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Cedar Entertaining Buffet Table
Perfect for hosting parties
and backyard bashes, this
entertaining buffet table is
handcrafted from western
red cedar and features two
well-spaced shelves for
setting up snacks, drinks,
and dishes. Use it after the
party for functional and
versatile storage. The curves
in the legs make it a stylish
statement. Contact: (888)
293-2339 or
www.CedarStore.com.
Calais
Agio
combines boldness and artistry so that you can offer your customers
exciting new outdoor rooms. The Calais deep seating collection features pieces that
prove bold, savvy, and multifunctional for those customers who insist on the very latest
looks. The L-shaped sectional is complemented by an oversized, cushioned coffee
table that takes on double duty as extra seating and lounging space. Its clean, modern
lines are further enhanced by the unique look of Agios latest accent-table design. For
trendsetting looks that are sure to be on the top of your customers lists for new ideas
and innovation, trust Agio. Contact: www.agio-usa.com.
New Firepit Rings
American Fireglass firepit rings are now
available in 6-, 12-, 18-, 24-, 30-, 36-, and 48-inch
sizes. These firepit rings feature an all-new
crossbow design for better gas
distribution and are constructed of
high-quality stainless steel.
Contact: (888) 264-1017 or
www.americanfireglass.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Glo-Fire Cast
Wood Stove
The Glo-Fire Mustang cast-iron
wood stove represents one of the
highest consumer-value stoves on the
market. The noncatalytic burn system,
clean-glass air wash, and double-wall
cast-iron constructionall with a
five-year warrantyprovide consumer
confidence. The Mustang takes 24-inch
wood and has a 70,000 Btu rating.
Contact: (360) 425-4200 or
www.hearthdistribution.com.
Designs By
Garry
DBGs newest exterior
fireplace model, the Mariposa,
invites guests to gather without
blocking views, combining
low-profile functionality with an
artful appearance. Using
lightweight, durable exterior
concrete, these prefabricated
units simply stack and bolt
together. They are made in the
United States. Contact: (949)
581-1919 or
www.exteriorfireplaces.com.
Firepit by Galaxy Outdoor
Galaxy Outdoor introduces the first custom, self-contained firepit for LP gas on wheels. This unique
firepit can roll around anywhere in a backyard and can be built to any size or shape. The unit includes
a 16-gauge, heavy-duty, 304 stainless-steel firepan; a stainless-steel fire burner; a high-flow regulator;
whistle-free, 5/8-inch hoses; a key valve; an igniter system with a stainless-steel cover; and a
14x20-inch stainless-steel access door. All Galaxy Outdoor products carry a warranty for 10 years on all
workmanship. Contact: (702) 448-5600 or www.galaxyoutdoor.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Galaxy Outdoor Built-in
Components
These built-in components by Galaxy Outdoor are made in the
United States and feature 16-gauge, heavy-duty, 304 stainless
steel; stainless-steel handles; full extension; and self-closing
drawer glides. There are 15 different doors to choose from, which
gives you more choices than other, competing brands do. All
Galaxy Outdoor products carry a warranty for 10 years on all
workmanship. Contact: (702) 448-5600 or
www.galaxyoutdoor.com.
Grand Firepit
Golden Blounts Grand firepit makes a bold statement in any outdoor
setting and is the perfect alternative to smaller, inexpensive-looking
firepits. It includes 12 massive, highly textured ceramic logs and a
stainless-steel burner with a 14-gauge pan. It uses natural or LP gas.
Contact: (800) 833-1139 or www.goldenblountinc.com.
Direct-vent
Fireplace Insert
Blaze Kings very successful Torino 1605I
direct-vent gas stove is now available as an insert.
Contemporary looks, combined with the best-backed
warranty for gas-fired appliances in the industry,
make for a winning combination. Features include an
output of 33,000 Btu, electronic ignition, a
remote-control thermostat, an illuminated firebox,
and Pyro-Glo ceramic logs and burner. Contact: (509)
522-2730 or www.blazeking.com.
Planet Barbecue Spice
Rubs and Pastes
This hot new product line from Steven Raichlen
features four explosively flavorful spice pastes (from
Colombia, Morocco, Malaysia, and Jamaica) and five
bold spice-rub blends (from North Africa, Spain,
Morocco, Argentina, and Germany). Raichlen spent
years on the worlds barbecue trail, documenting the
live-fire culinary traditions of cultures around the
planet. The spice rubs and marinade pastes are an
extension of Raichlens bestselling cookbook, Planet
Barbecue, published in 2010 by Workman Publishing.
Suggested retail prices for the spice rubs and pastes
are $6.99 and $9.99, respectively. Contact: (800)
521-0505 or sales@companion-group.com.
Griddle by Bradford Lifestyles
Bradford Lifestyles is now offering Simogas griddles from Spain, which can be
used for both domestic and professional cooking. Bradford offers a range of
Simogas accessoriessuch as trolleys, covers, and utensilsproviding you with
everything you need to enjoy real griddle cooking. Discover its advantages over
the traditional barbecue. The griddle is designed to eliminate cold spots on the
plate and is powerful enough to maintain a temperature of more than 570
degrees (300 degrees Celsius) over the entire surface. Contact:
info@bradfordlifestyles.com.
Bottle Opener
Built from 304 stainless steel, the bottle
opener from Bull Outdoor Products comes
complete with an opener and catch. The catch
is removable to allow for easy cleanup. Bull
Outdoor Products worked with its designers
and production groups to make sure that
installation is simple. This is a great addition to
any outdoor-cooking or entertaining area.
Contact: (800) 521-2855 or www.bullbbq.com.
EVOb[OYSaO
DS\bc`W4ZO[S
5`SOb-
OutdoorRooms.com 866-303-4028
Beautiful, affordable, and efcient just a few reasons consumers are paying attention to the Venturi Flame line
of products. Working like magic, our proprietary Venturi Flame Technology creates a mesmerizing, dancing ame.
Taking a non-descript gel re and instantly turning it into an active piece of art.
The wall-mounted Inspiration Fireplace is the rst ever UL listed gel-fueled replace. It hangs in minutes and you
can take it with you to any location. The Inspiration and VenturiTable-top Fire Pits are economical, easy to
install, and lightweight. They run on clean-burning gel fuel, creating warmth and ambience, for use virtually any-
where indoors and out. Crystal SpinFire Pit Tables use all of the same technology running on LP or NG for use
outdoors creating even more warmth, and a long-lasting re.
Visit us at HPBexpo booth #4281 or go to OutdoorRooms.com to see our entire line of Outdoor Room products.
Inspiration Fireplace VenturiTable-top Fire Pit
Crystal SpinFire Pit Table
All Venturi Flame products are UL listed to meet safety performance standards.
;JSYZWN +QFRJ
70
PATENT PENDING
FP-36 Firepit
A unique, all-cast fireplace, measuring 36 inches square
with a 24-inch ring burner system, ships knocked downand
can be assembled in 10 minutes or less. Designed with a rigid
space frame, stacked-stonelook sides, and a slate-look top,
the FP-36 fits in any backyard setting. Burner media available
are lava rock, logs, or any color of fireplace glass. Contact:
(360) 425-4200 or www.hearthdistribution.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Cedar Entertainment
and Storage Unit
This red-cedar entertainment center and storage unit is versatile
and beautiful. It features two roomy shelves and space for a
garbage can or clothes hamper. Use it poolside, for towels and
toys; indoors, as a media center with space for movies and games;
or in the kitchen, for storage. Contact: (888) 293-2339 or
www.CedarStore.com.
Designs By Garry
DBGs newest exterior fire product, the chat-height octagon fire
table, is cozy (yet functional) as a low dining table, featuring a
54-inchdiameter top. The base can house a propane tank. The
tabletop is available in concrete or a granite-inset model and is also
available in a standard 48-inch size. The fire table is made in the
United States of lightweight, durable exterior concrete. Contact:
(949) 581-1919 or www.exteriorfireplaces.com.
Stone Age Manufacturing
offers everything your customers want in an outdoor room,
all created in lightweight concrete for
a lifetime of trouble-free enjoyment.
See the Stone Age difference
Look For Exciting New Items
in Our 2011 Product Catalog
Fireplaces
Fire Pits
Pizza Ovens
Brick Ovens
Kitchen Islands
Pergolas
Storage Cabinets
EvenGLO
EvenGLO is the latest addition to the
companys one-stopshopping approach to
outdoor kitchens, living areas, and
entertainment centers. The EvenGLO
commercial outdoor heater evenly
distributes heat throughout the living area
using its patented precision heat-control
system. The EvenGLO by Danver employs a
patented double-reflector design to direct
even temperatures over a greater distance
(up to 58% greater than that of
conventional umbrella-style heaters).
Contact: (888) 441-0537 or
www.danver.com.
Were
Big in
Barbecue
Visit us at HPBExpo March 2-5, 2011. Booth 3829
To request a catalog please call 800-521-0505 or email to, sales@companion-group.com
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Steak Station
Steak Station
is the must-have grilling

gadget this holiday season. Steak Station
monitors four steaks at the same time, allowing
those commanding the grill to cook multiple
steaks confidently, each 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 colorful probes measure
from 115 to 170 degrees, indicating a complete
spectrum of doneness. Contact: (800) 521-0505
or sales@companion-group.com.
Custom Flex and Custom Kits
There is always a flexible solution with DuraVents DuraFlex custom lengths and custom kits. Choose exactly the
length of flex needed from four different stainless-steel flex products: DuraFlex Pro, DuraFlex SW, DuraFlex 316, and
DuraFlex 304 (minimum order of
10 feet). Custom ovalization is
available, too. Then, add exactly
the components needed to
complete a kit. Contact: (800)
835-4429 or www.duravent.com.
Earths Flame
Earths Flame
is a new hearth product that

improves the performance of wood-burning fireplaces
and, ultimately, helps generate more heat. It is a
system that fits into an existing wood-burning
fireplace, replacing the manufacturers cast-iron
grate. It increases radiant heat (at minimal cost) and
reduces emissions from a fireplace. Two important
design featuresthe Blue Flame log lighter and an
insulating refractory plate that sits above the
firemake the fire start faster and increase
combustion temperatures in the fireplace. Contact:
(888) 201-8805 or www.earthsflame.com.
Vent Hood
Bull Outdoor
Products new vent hood
is designed to work with most of the companys
built-in grills. Built from solid 304 stainless steel, this
unit (36 inches wide and 32 inches deep) is loaded
with features. Twin internal sealed motors drive 1,250
cfm of ventilation power. The vent hood comes with
twin halogen lights and commercial-grade
stainless-steel baffle filters. An interchangeable
discharge makes installation simple and allows for a
wide variety of applications. Contact: (800) 521-2855
or www.bullbbq.com.
Grand Terrace Wicker Sling
Gensuns Grand Terrace wicker sling collection combines
beautifully detailed cast arms and legs with a custom-woven wicker
seat, creating a striking and comfortable chair. The high-back
design adds to the comfort, for a product that completes any
outdoor room. The collection offers a dining chair, a swivel rocker, a
love-seat glider, swivel barstools and balcony stools, and a chaise.
Contact: www.gensuncasual.com.
Crystal Fire
Square and
Rectangular
Burner Units
New for 2011 are square and rectangular
burners for Crystal Fire firepits. Elegant in
design, these new burner units create a
glowing, warm fire that burns above glass
Liqui-Crystals (choose from five different
color options). Both units fit into the
companys existing surrounds (Sierra or
San Juan models), or they can be fitted to
custom surrounds. Contact: (866) 303-4028
or www.outdoorrooms.com.
Hamptons
Collection by
Sunbrella Fabrics
The new Sunbrella
Hamptons
collection plays on the traditional
blue-and-white combination, but with
modern designs and bold hues that make
the color contrast fresh again. Fabrics in
the collection include Lantern Shadow, Holt
Classic, Neo Indigo, Zelli Indigo, Meridian
Wren, and Bari Indigo. All fabrics are
available through Glen Raven Custom
Fabrics. Contact: www.sunbrella.com.
Prot from the brand NEW patio protector.
Patio Fabric Protector repels water, dirt and stains while
maintaining the appearance and breathability of outdoor fabrics.
Camp Dry products are up 19.4% in sales
*
Cash in on the patio protection trend
See your Sales Representative for additional off-shelf merchandising opportunities.
kiwicampdry.com
2010 Sara Lee Household & Body Care USA. Kiwi and Camp Dry are trademarks.
*
I
R
I

F
D
M
x

5
2

w
e
e
k

d
o
l
l
a
r

s
a
l
e
s

e
n
d
i
n
g

D
e
c
e
m
b
e
r

5
,

2
0
1
0
Bioethanol
Fireplaces
Offer your customers an easy way of
converting an existing nonworking
fireplace into an eco-friendly bioethanol
fireplace with EcoSmart Fire. Its
designed to be put into an existing
masonry hearth, so the conversion
process is really quick and easyit
takes about 15 minutes. Add EcoSmart
Fire to your product offerings today.
Contact: (888) 590-3335 or
www.ecosmartfire.com.
DuraPro Fresh Air Kit
The patent-pending
DuraPro combustion air
system, by M&G DuraVent,
features a wall thimble and a
ceiling support box that supply
outdoor air for combustion for
wood and pellet stoves,
including below-grade
applications. The kit eliminates
using conditioned inside air as
combustion air and minimizes
downdrafts in below-grade
installations. Simplify
installations with only one wall
or ceiling penetration. It has a
decor black finish and is made
in the United States. Contact:
(800) 835-4429 or
www.duravent.com.
Spring Bay
Stripe Deluxe
Cushioned
Double Swing
Classic and modern meet here, in
one of the widest double swings
available. The curvy, polished
white-oak frame supports a pillowy
seat of cottony-soft, all-weather
DuraCord
fabric sandwiching an
ample layer of polyester fiberfill
batting. The pleasing Spring Bay
Stripe pattern, with its cool aqua
stripes interspersed with bands of
brown, natural chambray, and citron
green, evokes a peaceful spring morning beside placid water. Vinyl-coated steel cables bolster strength and
add a distinctly modern, artful flourish. Contact: (800) 334-1078 or www.thehammocksource.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
ElmiraStoveWorks.com
1 800 295 8498
Choose the warm charm of our Antique
wood-burning or gas and electric appliances,
or the retro cool Northstar line.
Looking for originality?
Adorned with nickel, brass, copper or chrome,
each custom-built appliance is true to its era.
Models available in gas, electric,
wood-burning or dual fuel.
For true originals.
Let us build one for you.
RANGES COOKSTOVES
RANGE HOODS MICROWAVES
REFRIGERATORS DISHWASHERS
Rustic Timbers by
Hargrove
Rustic Timbers
is the latest offering in

Hargroves Vesta Award-winning Radiant Heat vented
log series. Rustic Timbers further refines the
companys Radiant Riser
technology, giving
radiant-heating efficiency comparable to that of a
vent-free log set while retaining the beauty and
realism found only in Hargrove vented gas
logs. Hargroves innovative new molding process
reproduces the intricate textures of nature in ceramic
fiber, creating a warm and inviting glow in the heart of the log set, with all the detail of Hargroves
traditional refractory log sets. Rustic Timbers works with standard Hargrove vented burner systems,
and is available in 21-inch through 36-inch sizes and in see-through configurations. Contact: (800)
725-4166 or www.hargrovegaslogs.com.
Linear Fireplace by Golden Blount
Golden Blounts 42x18-inch linear fireplace (LFP4218) provides the
perfect focal point for todays modern home. Its open-front,
contemporary B-vent design; high-gloss black interior panels; and
optional LED lights add a sleek look to any room. The linear fireplace
comes with a choice of decorative glass and is capable of generating
30,000 Btu. Glass doors and custom colors are options, as are
designer geometric interior panels. Contact: (800) 833-1139 or
www.goldenblountinc.com.
Loft Contemporary Burners
Empire Comfort Systems continues to expand its Loft series
contemporary fireplace-burner line with new outdoor models. Rated
at 36,000 Btu for the 24-inch model and 40,000 Btu for the 30-inch
model, these distinctive, contemporary burners deliver reliable
outdoor heat and light to help extend your outdoor season.
Intermittent-pilot models operate without a pilot and can be lit using
the included remote control. Millivolt models employ a standing pilot
and can operate manually or with an optional remote control. The
burners are available in LP- and natural-gas models. Contact:
www.empirecomfort.com.
ENERVEX
ENERVEX is introducing a loaner
program for local home shows to
help introduce the chimney fan to
your customers. It is absolutely free
to use, and the company even takes
care of the shipping charges.
Included in this unique loaner
program are a chimney fan, a model
chimney, a press release for local
media, and a poster. Contact: (800)
255-2923, info@enervex.com, or
www.chimneyfans.com.
Fireplace Draft
Damper System
(FDDS)
The environmentally friendly ENERVEX
FDDS is the first completely automated
draft-and-damper system for use with gas
fireplaces. The FDDS quietly manages a
perfect draft and prevents excess heat from
escaping through the chimney when the
fireplace is not in use. It eliminates the need
for glass doors, opening up many new
design options while allowing for a larger
view area of the fire and a more natural look.
The system consists of the RS chimney fan,
the mechanical fireplace damper (MFD), and the ADC 100 control. Contact: (800)
255-2923, www.chimneyfans.com, or info@enervex.com.
A Great Line Extension
for Your Sales Team
Selling the dream of having a fireplace without all the fuss is great for your
teamand even better for your customers. EcoSmart Fires are leaders in the
global market of eco-friendly, bioethanol-fueled open fireplaces and offer
solutions for both indoors and outdoors. They offer quick and easy setup, with no
flue or chimney (and no gas or electricity connection) required. Contact: (888)
590-3335 or www.ecosmartfire.com.
Rapture
It isnt often that a product offers
looks, features, performance, and
quality at a level to lead an entire
industry in virtually every category.
Design Dynamics
introduces the
new Rapture B-vent gas fireplace, a
rare hybrid of modern innovation
with an elegant and traditional
masonry design. Concealed
electronic ignition reveals only the
magnificence of the fire. A premium
log stack is unitized with the fiber
burner as a single system. The
fireplace produces considerable
heat due to the technology of the
fiber burner, and it even includes a
damper. The 30-inchtall viewing
area provides a dramatic flame picture to enhance the industrys finest Mosaic
Masonry
firebrick lining, which is indistinguishable from site-built masonry.

Contact: (866) 328 4537 or www.fmiproducts.com.
Royal Red Stripe Pillowtop
Hammock
Firm, appealingly wide, interwoven poly-filled pillows provide uncommon lumbar
uplift even as they enhance cushiony hammock comfort. The simple, elegant fabric
pattern, part of the new Hatteras Hammocks
Equestrian collection, is based in rich

royal red, recalling an old-time jockeys vest on race day. The solution-dyed
DuraCord
fabric is as weather tough as it is cottony soft, while South American

cumaru-wood spreader bars further boost both looks and durability. The Hatteras
Hammocks Roman Arc
cypress hammock stand is sold separately. Contact: (800)

334-1078 or www.thehammocksource.com.
Heat & Glos New Line of Gas Inserts
Recently, Heat & Glo
updated its entire line of direct-vent gas inserts with the

industrys most advanced technology for realistic flames, glow, and lighting. Six
model variations are available to suit any design style. The four metal inserts are
the Grand-I35 and the Supreme-I30 (traditional style) and the Cosmo-I35 and I30
(contemporary style). The two FireBrick
models are the Escape-I35FB and the

Escape-I30FB. All of these new Heat & Glo inserts are designed for easy and quick
installation, and they come standard with IntelliFire
intermittent-pilot ignition.
They meet the most discriminating homeowners desire for comfort, beauty, and
elegance. Contact: www.heatnglo.com.
Refractory
Panels
Hargrove Premium Products has
introduced a new series of
replacement refractory panels.
Multiple sizes are available, and
panels can be cut to fit sizing
requirements. Each panel is steel and
fiber reinforced. Some models are
available for UPS shipment. Contact:
(800) 725-4166 or
markh@e-hargrove.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Sedona Collection
by Sunbrella
Fabrics
The Sunbrella
Sedona collection
combines Sunbrellas newest color, hot
pink, with various earth tones for a modern,
organic effect that makes the fabrics livable
and approachable. Fabrics in the collection
include Prado Mesa, Wabi Fiesta, Velvet
Nutmeg, Meridian Maize, and El Greco
Berry. All fabrics are available through Glen
Raven Custom Fabrics. Contact:
www.sunbrella.com.
Kamado Joe Teak
Accessory Center
Kamado Joes accessory center allows
dealers to display Kamado Joe accessories
easily, in an attractive display with a small
footprint. The staggered shelving allows
dealers to arrange their most profitable
accessories for greater visibility. Its
constructed of solid teak. Assembly is
quick and easy, in 15 minutes. Contact:
(678) 866-0642 or www.kamadojoe.com.
Circle Reader Service No. 148 Circle Reader Service No. 67
New Fire and Water Products
The perfect combination for your outdoor home landscape: Youve asked HPC
for it, and the company deliveredbecause whats under the flame makes the
difference. Hammered-copper products, with or without the water channel, are
available in various models. Create that unique element by the pool or as a
fountain. Drop in one of these Canadian Standards Associationcertified,
hot-wireignition firepits and relax in the peaceful ambience. Contact:
www.hearthproductscontrols.com.
FMI Ethanol
System
FMI Products, L.L.C.,
introduces yet another
addition to its brands of
fireplaces. Ethanol, a green
fuel alternative, is gaining
popularity due to its
clean-burning
characteristics; however,
limitations exist that affect
consumer friendliness and
performance. With the
all-new FMI system and its
patented technology, these
issues have now been
resolved to make ethanol a viable heating alternative. The FMI ethanol system
accomplishes this through the addition of several new features. The patented
spark-ignition system and innovative shutoff system eliminate all consumer
apprehensions about safety and performance. The FMI system also debuts a
patent-pending fuel-disbursement system that simplifies the function of this new
product category. Now, ethanol has beauty, ease of use, and simple operation.
Contact: (866) 328-4537 or www.fmiproducts.com.
Hitzer 30-95
EZ-Flo Hopper
Stove
The Hitzer 30-95 EZ-Flo hopper
stove is an outstandingly efficient and
convenient heating source. With a
30-pound hopper, this stove has
extended long burns and produces
over 60,000 Btu of evenly warm
temperatures. The advanced
technology of a removable hopper is
an added convenience of this
top-choice stove. Like all Hitzer
stoves, the 30-95 is thermostatically
controlled, and it provides heating
without electricity. With heating capabilities of up to 2,000 square feet, the EZ-Flo
meets your heating needs, as well as providing beauty and charm for ones home.
The full-view firebox window allows easy viewing that creates cozy, warm
relaxation. With a stove color to match your home, the Hitzer 30-95 will decorate
your home, produce cost-efficient heat, and create a warm and soothing
environment. Contact: (260) 589-8536 or www.hitzer.com.
Remote TK
Torch
With the flip of a switch, give your
landscape the feeling of a resort.
Around the pool or deck, you can
create that relaxing paradise. These
robust, reliable, electronic-ignition
torches have an adjustable flame,
remote starting, and automatic
restarting in high winds. Kano tops
are available in three colors. These
torches use 24-volt AC power and
natural or LP gas. A manual-light TK
torch is coming soon. Contact:
www.hearthproductscontrols.com.
Broilmaster
H3X Packages
Broilmaster offers its all-new H3X
series grill in packages to make it
easier to order this competitively
priced grill. Available as an
LP or natural-gas
model on a black
cart and as a
natural-gas model on
a black patio post or in-ground
post, the H3X packages include the mounting,
grill head, and one shelf. The H3X series, the
latest addition to the Broilmaster line, features
a two-piece, stainless-steel cooking-grid set
and a stainless-steel H-style burner with dual
controls, packed into the companys
legendary 1/4-inch cast-aluminum grill
head. Contact: www.broilmaster.com.
The Voyageur by Quadra-Fire
The Voyageur is a flush-hearth cast wood insert, so no additional space or
hearth extension is needed. Featuring elegant lines, it lets the fire be enjoyed
through the large and unobstructed viewing area. With the famous quad burn, the
Voyageur provides powerful performance, efficiently, throughout the home.
Homeowners will enjoy load, light, and live convenience with Quadra-Fires
exclusive automatic combustion control technology. The new Voyageur will bring
warmth and beauty to any room. Contact: www.quadrafire.com.
Sunpak Patio Heaters
Sunpak
models S25 and S34 are outdoor-rated

heaters available for use with natural or propane
gas. These state-of-the art heaters offer a slim
profile that works well in a wide variety of patio
settings. These heaters can be either wall mounted
or ceiling mounted. The optional mounting kit
allows the heater to be mounted from above,
keeping the patio deck free and clear. Sunpak
comes with a 24-volt AC spark-ignition system that
includes flame monitoring through flame
rectification. All Sunpak heaters require an external
24-volt AC source. Sunpak heaters are available in a black powder coat or a 304
stainless-steel finish. Contact: (888) 317-5255 or www.infradyne.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Earths Flame
Improves Heat
From Wood-burn-
ing Fireplaces
Earths Flame is an award-winning,
hybrid, clean-burn hearth product that
increases radiant heat at minimal cost and
reduces emissions from a fireplace by 78%.
This is a critical benefit during the winter
season. Its design features a Canadian
Standards Associationcertified Blue Flame
log lighter and an insulating refractory
plate that sits above the fire, which make
the fire start faster and increase
combustion temperatures in the fireplace.
This innovative product improves indoor air
quality, decreases the chance of smoke
spillage, increases fireplace draft by 76%,
and is made in the United States. Contact:
(888) 201-8805 or www.earthsflame.com.
Ceramic Cooktop
Bring the cooking outside. Lite-Touch
Q Outdoors blends design and function into

a style that enhances your outdoor kitchen.
Waterproof design allows use in any
weather conditions. It has an intuitive
touch control with auto shutoff, along with
a subtly textured black glass that has a
beveled edge for seamless countertop
installation. Equipped with a GFCI power
cord and a three-prong, 120-volt plug for
user safety, it has a three-year
product-replacement warranty, and is made
in the United States. It is outdooor UL/cUL
approved. Contact: (860) 664-4906 or
www.kenyonappliances.com.
The Inspiration
Gel-fueled Fireplace
The Inspiration fireplace is like no other, featuring a mesmerizing spiral
flame powered by Venturi Flame Technology
and a versatile wall-mount

design for easy installation indoors or outdoors. Its the first-ever gel-fueled
fireplace to be UL listed for safety, and its also one of the most economical
fireplaces on the market today. It runs on clean-burning gel fuel, weighs less
than 35 pounds, and comes in three unique finish options; it retails at an MSRP
of only $699 to $799. There has never been an easier, more affordable fireplace
to hang in any room. Get inspired today with the Inspiration fireplace. Contact:
(866) 303-4028 or www.outdoorrooms.com.
Hitzer Stoker Coal
Stove Model 608
The Hitzer Stoker
coal stove model
608 is a
superior-quality
product that your
customers will love.
Its features include
a Btu range of
7,000 to 90,000, an
integrated Coal-Trol
thermostatic-control
combustion air
system, the ability
to hold up to 90
pounds of coal,
cast-iron doors,
pewter or gold accents,
double-wall construction,
a 2-inch rear clearance
and 4-inch side
clearances, a 320-cfm
circulation fan, and a
galvanized-steel hopper
(optional). Every Hitzer heating system is carefully
handbuilt by Amish craftsmen. Only the finest materials
are used, and no shortcuts are taken. Each system
provides efficient burning with effective consumption of
secondary gases. The result: more heat with less fuel
consumed. Contact: (260) 589-8536 or www.hitzer.com.
Beerenberg Sauces
Hot Smoke Trading Company has introduced a wide
range of sauces to spice up grilled foods. The green
tomato pickle condiment is one of Beerenbergs
original product offerings and still retains its
popularity. Its gluten free and has no added artificial
flavors or preservatives. The Taka Tala sauce and
marinade originated from a recipe from a farmer in
Zimbabwe. It contains an abundance of fruit,
vegetables, herbs, and spices. Caramelised
onionwith its rich, sweet, and savory flavorwill
enhance grilled or barbecued meats. It has no added
artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Contact:
www.hotsmoke.co.nz.
Infratech
Comfort
Heaters
Whether for work or
recreation, Infratech Comfort
heaters turn cold indoor and
outdoor areas into comfortable,
inviting spaces. The W-series
heater incorporates a specially
designed electric quartz heating
element that produces safe,
infrared radiant energy. Radiant
energy is only absorbed by solid
objects and is not wasted
heating the air. The heater is
suitable for ceiling-, wall-, or
flush-mount installations, with
minimal clearance required.
Solid-state and analog controls
are also available for intensity
adjustment. Contact:
www.infratech-usa.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet
Outdoor kitchens continue to grow in sophistication and size. Equipment that serves very specific purposes is an important trend.
Keg tappers and wine chillers have become critical features of high-end designs. Pizza ovens are exploding in popularity. Kalamazoo
Outdoor Gourmet offers the broadest, most innovative assortment of handcrafted outdoor-kitchen equipment to meet homeowner
and designer needs, including Hybrid Fire grills, countertop pizza ovens, weathertight cabinetry, and forced-air refrigeration and
freezers. Contact: Don Sivesind at (312) 423-8553, disivesind@kalamazoogourmet.com, or www.kalamazoogourmet.com.
Kamado Joe
Gasket-replacement Kit
Kamado Joe gasket-replacement kits are made of premium
felt gasket material with a self-adhesive backing. Enough
gasket material is included with each kit for it to be used on
any standard-sized, kamado-style grill. Full installation
instructions are printed on the back of the package insert.
Contact: (678) 866-0642 or www.kamadojoe.com.
Linear View
Brentwood LV
With either a clean-face style or traditional
louver option, the new Brentwood
LV
wood-burning fireplace from Lennox Hearth
Products (LHP) offers a large, rectangular door
to fit any contemporary or traditional interior.
The latest entry in LHPs EPA family features
unique, all-in-one, double air-combustion
control to help manage wood consumption and
allow faster ignition. Learn more about this
Washington Stateapproved, 86.6%
efficiency-rated fireplace at the companys
website. Contact: www.lennox.com.
KIWI Unveils New
Product for Spring
KIWI
Camp Dry
patio fabric protector is a new

product for spring designed to help consumers maintain the
appearance and extend the lifetime of outdoor-furniture
fabrics. The product repels water, dirt, and stains without
darkening or discoloring fabric. Its the ideal solution for
protecting umbrellas, cushions, pillows, chairs, and other
outdoor-furniture fabrics from the elements, all season long.
Contact: www.kiwicampdry.com.
Beerenberg Sauces
Hot Smoke Trading Company has introduced a
wide range of sauces to spice up grilled foods. The
Australian mango chutney has the right balance of
mango and spice to complement your
favorite curry or cold collation. Its
gluten free and has no added artificial
preservatives. The smoky bourbon
sauce and marinade is a classic, sticky
rib, wing, and steak marinade. The
natural, smoked-hickory bourbon
flavor makes this condiment quite
special.
Bavarian
mustard is
mildly spiced and is popular with sausages and meat.
It has no added artificial flavors, colors, or
preservatives. Contact: www.hotsmoke.co.nz.
Artisan Fire Pizza Oven
by Kalamazoo
Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet has introduced the
Artisan Fire pizza oven, the first countertop outdoor
pizza oven with two independently controlled burners,
offering unparalleled cooking power and control.
Kalamazoo has taken all of the best features and
cooking characteristics found in traditional brick-lined,
large, wood-fired pizza ovens and wrapped them in an
elegant, gas-fired, stainless-steel package. With a top
temperature in excess of 800 degrees, its two
custom-made and independently controlled burners
give outdoor cooks the ability to customize the ovens
heat and bake pizzas, calzones, and artisanal breads
of any style. The oven comes up to baking temperature
in as few as 20 minutes, making pizza night a more
spontaneous occasion. The Artisan Fire pizza ovens
compact size leaves a small footprint on a countertop,
making it an ideal element for a new outdoor kitchen
or any existing backyard patio. Contact: (800)
868-1699 or www.kalamazoogourmet.com.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Many people choose Infratech electric infrared heaters because of great looks.
The low-profile heaters and low clearance requirements allow the fixtures to blend
into any environment seamlessly. Infratech heaters represent a good balance among
efficiency, heating performance, and low visual impact. Infratech heaters produce no
harsh visible light or glare to spoil the mood or strain your eyes. They are UL
approved for indoor and outdoor installations. Contact: www.infratech-usa.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Finest selection of
contemporar y
European stoves,
and fireplaces

Cosmo
Wood
Stove
Wittus Inc.
914.764.5679
www.wittus.com
Monessen
Covington
Clear View
Fireplace
Available in three expansive
viewing sizes, the clean front and
elegant styling of this fireplace fits
seamlessly into any room. The
nonreflective ceramic glass provides
the clearest view available,
eliminating glare from any angle.
With the exclusive Total Signature
Command
system and included

remote, your customers will have ultimate fireplace control at their fingertips. The fireplace
is also available in a see-through model, so the fire can be viewed from two rooms and
even installed on an exterior wall for indoor/outdoor enjoymentproviding a warm
gathering place, inside and outdoors. Contact: www.monessenhearth.com.
MLW Stone, L.L.C.,
Introduces StacKIT Natural
Stacked-stone Fireplace Kits
This new product has the look and workmanship of authentic, natural stacked stone.
Integrated with todays innovative technology, it reduces significantly the cost of
installation. Most natural stacked-stone fireplaces are cut and installed in individual
piecesbut StacKITsurrounds are
prefabricated into panels that are cut to
standard fireplace-kit sizes and can be
installed in minutes, just as you would install a marble
or granite surround. These kits are stocked in MLWs
three standard sizes and include a header, two legs, a
riser, and a three-piece hearth; 6x24-inch interlocking
panels, complete with corner pieces, are also available
to accommodate raised hearths and wall applications.
The product is available in two colors: Carden gold and
multicolor. Contact: (800) 477-7665 Ext. 127.
Legend G4
Introducing the latest addition
to the Valor insert family, the
Legend G4: Considered the big
brother of Valors highly
successful Legend G3 insert, the
G4 is a synthesis of distinct
design and efficient, radiant
heating performance. Contact:
www.valorfireplaces.com.
Prestige
Pro 600
Series
The new Napoleon
Prestige Pro
600 series
comes loaded with all
the toys needed for
complete outdoor
entertaining. Among its
features are up to 1,062
square inches of total
cooking space, up to
95,000 Btu, 3/8-inch stainless-steel WAVE
rod cooking grids, a deluxe high top, a

space-saving roll-top lid with chrome trim accents and handle, an attractive pedestal base
with concealed casters, electronic ignition for easy starting, a ceramic infrared SIZZLE
ZONE
integrated side burner, an enclosed ice bucket and cutting board, an infrared rear
rotisserie burner, and more. Contact: (877) 588-2220 or www.nacdealers.com.
Fireview
Elmira Stove Works Fireview wood-burning
cookstove features antique styling, a viewing window
for monitoring and enjoyment, high-efficiency
secondary-burn technology, and a spacious
3cubic-foot oven. Optional autoignition propane
burners can run off the barbecue tank. National
advertising support and protected dealer territories
are available. The model shown has an MSRP of
$4,995. Contact: (800) 295-8498 or
www.ElmiraStoveWorks.com.
Texan All Seasons Grill
Ever-expansive, ever-changing possibilities make the Texan All Seasons
grill lend itself to use at

large parties or informal gatherings. It has unique styling and the ultimate grilling power. Two grilling
surfaces, with independent heat controls, allow for searing steaks on one side while gently grilling
vegetables on the other. When the need arises to use a flat surface, simply change out one of the grates
with the optional griddle. The grill uses 240-volt
power, has a three-year product-replacement
warranty, and is made in the United States.
Contact: (860) 664-4906 or
www.kenyonappliances.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Grill Mat
Modern Home Products Corp. is now offering a grill
mat made of 100% recycled materials. Made in the
United States, this sturdy mat protects patios and
decks, is vented to help prevent mold and mildew, and
is UL 94 HB burn-test approved. The mat is relatively
maintenance free and can be easily cleaned with soap
and water. Available in two sizes, 42x30 inches and
60x30 inches, the mat also comes with a limited
lifetime warranty. Contact:
www.modernhomeproducts.com.
Majestic Savannah
Steel Series Wood-
burning Stoves
Designed with the latest wood-burning technology
and constructed of 5/16-inch plate steel, this stove
proves to be a reliable, durable heat source, providing
warmth and
ambience for years
to come. Classic
design and attention
to even the smallest
detail, such as the
roller-glide door
latch, ensure that it
will add style and
value to any home. A
high-tech
combustion system
provides a lively,
vibrant burn, while the air-wash manifold ensures the
cleanest glass in the industry. Contact:
www.majesticproducts.com.
WHD31 Wall-hanging
Gas Fireplace
The WHD31 Plazmafire
is a modern gas
fireplace that simply hangs on your wall. Ideal for
modern and contemporary rooms, Napoleons
WHD31 Plazmafire features easy installation, plus
all of the conveniences of a gas fireplace. It offers
virtually endless installation possibilities;
installing it is almost as easy as hanging a picture
on the wall. With an impressive 30x15-inch viewing
area and an output of 20,000 Btu, Napoleons
Plazmafire is a great addition to the companys
modern fireplace collection. Contact: (800)
461-5581 or www.napoleonfireplaces.com.
Malibu Grande
Malibu Grande is a new addition to the
already-successful Malibu collection. Malibu Grandes
crescent-shaped sofa and wedge-shaped end table can be
arranged by themselves or with pieces from the Malibu
collection, in a variety of different configurations. Choose
between the high coffee table (which features an umbrella
hole) and the oversized circular ottoman as the Malibu
Grande centerpiece. Malibu Grande has a lightweight
aluminum frame; durable, UV-protected polyethylene
woven resin; and plush deep seating for added comfort.
Influenced by rich chocolate texture, the java flat-weave
style and unparalleled durability are perfect for the Malibu
Grande collection. Pictured in white and plum hues from the newly expanded fabric library of over 150 textures and colors,
Malibu Grande is sure to make a huge statement in your backyard retreat. Bring a fresh new approach to your outdoor room
with NorthCapes new Malibu Grande collection.
Contact: www.northcapeinternational.com.
Ziggurat Chat Pit
by OW Lee
The Ziggurat Chat Pit uses the same distinct lines
as the Mesopotamian ziggurat, a simple (yet
ingenious) piece of architecture. The bold, simple
lines of the Ziggurat Chat Pit reflect the style of
20th-century design trendsfrom Art Deco to
Midcentury Modernand even claim ties to Futurism.
Shown with the Galaxy black granite hearth top, this
bold design creates a unique, contemporary style.
Contact: (800) 776-9533 or www.owlee.com.
Introducing the New
Fire Magic Smoker
Everyone loves the taste of slow-cooked, smoked
food. At last, a true smoker from Fire Magic imparts
natural smoke flavor while keeping foods tender. This
commercial-quality, stainless-steel, high-capacity
smoker perfectly smokes meats and vegetables using
charcoal or wood chunks. A digital thermometer
monitors the smokers temperature, while an attached
meat probe tracks food temperatureproviding
maximum temperature control. Multiple air and smoke
vents allow precise temperature levels to be maintained
from start to finish. Contact: (800) 332-3973 or
www.rhpeterson.com.
The Finley Island
The Finley Island offers all you can
desire in an outdoor-cooking cabinet in a
compact, sleek design. The single drawer is
the perfect place to collect your spices,
sauces, or grilling utensils. Underneath the
drawer is a larger storage area perfect for
all those necessary bags of charcoal.
Additional storage underneath the grill
ensures that all your cooking accessories
can find a clean, dry home within easy
reach. The Finley also sports an umbrella
insert for those hot summer days. This
cabinet has two swiveling casters and two
rigid casters, ensuring that your cabinet
goes wherever you need it to go. Contact:
(800) 624-6512 or
www.selectoutdoorkitchens.com.
Phoenix Charcoal Grill
ProFire Grills, a division of Modern Home Products
Corp., has released the new Phoenix charcoal grill.
This innovative new design combines high-quality
construction with unique temperature controls,
including independently adjustable dual charcoal
trays and upper and lower vents that can be fully
opened for searing or partially closed for slow
cooking. The vents can also be completely closed to
extinguish the firesaving the charcoal. The grills
heavy-duty construction is backed by a lifetime
warranty. Contact: www.profiregrills.com.
WeatherReady Fountain
Covers
New WeatherReady fountain covers are double stitched and
made of heavyweight polyester with a PVC lining. They feature
Velcro
tab closures on four sides, with a Velcro midtie fastener

and an elasticized bottom (for a secure fit and protection against the
elements). They are available, in three sizes, in black or khaki.
Contact: (866) 896-3644, twodogsdesigns@aol.com, or
www.twodogsdesigns.com.
Broil King
Imperial XL
With over 1,000 square
inches of total cooking space,
stainless-steel dual-tube
burners, and solid
stainless-steel cooking grids,
the Broil King
Imperial
XL
provides superior heat control
and tremendous cooking
versatility in two independent
ovens, along with full extension
drawers and cabinet doors for
optimal storage space.
Contact: (800) 245-5138 or
www.broilkingbbq.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Double-wall Stovepipe
Selkirk announces a double-wall stovepipe with professional features, offered exclusively
to the hearth market. Model DCC double-wall stovepipe is UL/cUL listed as a connector pipe
between a wood stove and chimney. The smooth lines of the black outer wall allow for slip
connectors and easy installation.
Selkirk received favorable
feedback on this product line at
HPBExpo in Reno, Nevada. Since
that time, Selkirk has gone back and listed DCC for 6-inch clearance on all diameters and in
all installation configurationsgiving DCC the closest clearance of all stovepipes on the
market. Selkirk has also gained the cUL S-641 listing for sales of DCC in Canada. DCC
double-wall stovepipe is now in stock at the companys Turners Falls, Massachusetts, and
Prescott, Ontario, distribution centers, so place orders now for combined shipment with your
existing orders for chimney and venting products. Contact: (800) 443-6341 (United States) or
(888) SELKIRK/735-5475 (Canada).
New Double
Searing
Station/Side
Burner by Fire
Magic
Fire Magics new double searing station
sears meats to a flavorful finish, so meats
stay moist and tender inside, with a nice
exterior char. Two 16,000 Btu infrared
burners with independent controls provide
the flexibility needed to flash cook steaks
at 1,200 degrees to lock in juices. This unit
features a total of 342 square inches of
searing space and is a welcome companion
to any Fire Magic outdoor kitchen. Contact:
(800) 332-3973 or www.rhpeterson.com.
Southern Livings Boca Grande
Create a timeless look for any backyard with the new Southern Living Boca Grande
dining collection, exclusively by NorthCape. Boca Grande features a handwoven, thick, rich
cappuccino weave with elegantly shaped arms that will add texture to your porch, deck, or
patio. The sophisticated Boca Grande dining chair features closed woven sides, skirt, and
back, creating style and comfort for lasting enjoyment throughout the summer. For the
ultimate in comfort, complement the Boca Grande dining collection with pieces from the
companys deep seating collection (including the swivel glider) for classic Southern style.
Contact: www.northcapeinternational.com.
Equinox
Twin-Stars ClassicFlame
Equinox is a multifunction
media cabinet with integrated
wire management. The cabinet
features black metal shelving
and a rustic birch finish on the
sides. The high-quality shelves
are adjustable, and the shelf
opening is 42.5 inches wide by
16.25 inches deep by 6.25
inches high. Contact:
www.twinstarhome.com.
Palazzo
Collection by
OW Lee
The Palazzo collection
brings a sense of classic
elegance to the most
fashionable outdoor spaces.
Using Grecian style as its
inspiration, the Palazzo
collection offers a transitional
look while maintaining the
strength and durability of
handcrafted wrought iron.
Palazzos details, including its
understated finials, create a
sense of casual elegance.
Contact: (800) 776-9533 or
www.owlee.com.
SCHOTT
ROBAX
SCHOTT ROBAX
glass-ceramic 3D panels now

allow a great view of the fire
from all sides, turning the hearth
into a real meeting point.
Everyone in the room can take pleasure in a full view of the flames while still enjoying the
safety that only SCHOTT ROBAX glass-ceramic material can provide. This innovation in
glass ceramics allows for a design with a single piece of glass, rather than one with
obtrusive metal frames. Contact: (914) 831-2200 or www.schottrobax.com.
Porta-Chef Pro
The Porta-Chef
Pro is the
little grill with big features. Its
perfect for tailgating; just snap in
the legs, stand it up, and youre
set. Featuring a 14,000-Btu
stainless-steel tubular burner
system, a cast-iron cooking grid,
and 360 square inches of total
cooking surface, the Porta-Chef
Pro offers an unprecedented
amount of cooking capacity for a
portable grill. Contact: (800)
245-5138 or
www.broilkingbbq.com.
Select
Cutting Board
Select Outdoor Kitchens is
pleased to offer its newest
product, Select cutting boards,
exclusively to dealers. Every cook
needs a great cutting board, and
the company has developed one
that will become your trusted
sidekick in the kitchen or at the
grill. The cutting boards are
12x18 inches, oval shaped, and
available in 10 colors. The material, approved by the Food and Drug
Administration and the National Science Foundation, is the same material that
you will find in the best restaurant kitchens in the United States. Each cutting
board has an attractive depression to catch any cooking juices. Cutting boards
can be sold as is or customized with store logos. Contact: Mike Miller at
mike@selectoutdoorkitchens.com.
SMART ERV Energy-recovery
Ventilator
SMART air & energy
solutions
is a
collection of HVAC
products designed to
enhance comfort,
improve indoor air
quality, and save energy
for homeowners. Today,
everyone understands
that we need to explore
options for saving
energywhile
remaining comfortable
in our homes. SMART air
& energy solutions
offers products designed to provide economical options while maximizing
comfort. The newest addition to the SMART product lineup is the SMART ERV
energy-recovery ventilator. This unit provides a fresh-air supply and
humidity-control unit for residential housing. The unique poly wheel yields up
to an industry-leading 80% heat-recovery efficiency, and the twin
variable-speed fans allow the installer to adjust airflow from 50 to 240
cfmso the single unit can be adjusted for a residence of almost any size.
Contact: www.smartairandenergy.com.
Mezzo Pizza
Oven
Stone Age Manufacturing
introduces the Mezzo
wood-fired pizza oven, the

perfect complement to its
cabinet component system
kitchen islands. It offers 810
square inches of cooking area,
an arched-roof design echoing
the traditional ovens of the Old
World, and plenty of thermal
mass for optimum cooking
performance. Constructed of
reinforced refractory concrete,
the Mezzo offers simple assembly and will provide years of trouble-free cooking
enjoyment. Contact: www.stoneagemanufacturing.com.
WeatherReady
Firepit Covers
Two Dogs Designs for Outdoor
Living now offers WeatherReady
outdoor covers that fit any shape

of firepit. The covers are
attractively priced and offer good
quality; they are made of
heavy-duty polyester with PVC
linings. They feature elastic
bottoms with adjustable Velcro
fasteners on four sides for a

perfect, secure fit. WeatherReady
covers come in black or khaki.
Contact: (866) 896-3644,
twodogsdesigns@aol.com, or
www.twodogsdesigns.com.
Corinth
Twin-Stars
ClassicFlame Corinth is
a multifunction media
cabinet with integrated
wire management. With
an opening sized at 30
inches wide by 12
inches deep by 7.5
inches high, this unit
can be configured as a
wall or corner mantel.
The Corinth is
appropriate for both
traditional and
contemporary decors
and features
carved-leaf corbels with
an acanthus crown, a
fluted side with projecting pilasters, and a beveled base with decorative swag
molding. The unit is available in three finishes: premium oak, vintage cherry, and
burnished walnut. Contact: www.twinstarhome.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Team Grill in 2011
Make 2011 your championship season
with Team Grill. These high-end barbecue
grills, featuring the colors and logos of your
favorite sports teams, are now in their third
season. This unique product is now sold by
500 retailersbut not at big-box stores.
For more information on becoming a Team
Grill dealer, visit the companys website.
Contact: www.teamgrill.com/SELL.
SunBriteTV:
Model 3230HD
In an effort to expand its market reach,
SunBriteTV recently introduced two new
televisions to its all-weather
outdoor-product line. Pictured here is
model 3230HD, the companys 32-inch HD
LCD television. This television is value
engineered with SunBriteTVs signature
all-weather feature set and its
outdoor-rated ASA plastic resin exterior.
The result is a sleek, lighter-weight,
lower-priced television that does not
compromise the durability and quality that
SunBriteTV customers have learned to trust
(see page 50 for SunBriteTVs other new
product). Contact: (866) 357-8688 or
www.sunbritetv.com.
Doing Business the Smart Way
Going to HPBExpo ts right in with your leaner, meaner
business model. In three days and under one roof, you get
One-stop shopping. Get a quick overview of the years
product launches in the New Product Pavilion.
Answers to your top business questions. Seminar
tracks like the new Biomass Symposium deliver.
The chance to connect with industry colleagues. Dont miss
events like the free Friday Night Fever All-Industry Party.
WORK SMART. THINK EFFICIENT. MOVE FORWARD.
smart
work
Register today and book your hotel room in the HPBA
hotel block by January 28th. Go to hpbexpo.com.
HPBExpo 2011
Salt Palace Convention Center Salt Lake City, Utah
Exposition: March 3 5 Education: March 2 5
Innovations & Ideas for Indoor-Outdoor Living
www.hpbexpo.com
Follow us online:
A Green Heating Source
An insert by Wittus provides a highly efficient, natural heating source
that also serves as a focal gathering place for family and friends. These
inserts offer both radiant and natural convection heatsomething you
cannot get with an open hearth. Each insert has a large, full-sized
firebox, so there is plenty of room for standard-length logs. A fireplace
insert is easily installed in the open hearth and can be adapted to fit
any existing space in the wall. There are also optional matching steel
surrounds available in a variety of sizes. Higher fuel efficiency, higher
combustion temperatures, and lower atmospheric emissions make
burning wood in a Wittus insert an environmentally responsible
addition to your home. No electricity is required. Pictured is the H530
insert. Contact: (914) 764-5679, info@wittus.com, or www.wittus.com.
Team Grill
Tailgate
Series
Perfect for grilling at the
game or on camping trips, the
Team Grill Tailgate series is a
portable version of the Team
Grill Patio series grill. The
Tailgate series can be collapsed
and transported like a travel
suitcase. For complete program information (and to join
the companys team of over 500 retailers), visit its website.
Contact: www.teamgrill.com/SELL.
Alexander
Twin-Stars
ClassicFlame
Alexander is a
multifunction media
cabinet with
integrated wire
management. The
cabinets clean,
contemporary
design features
polished-nickel door
pulls and an open
center shelf (30
inches wide by 18
inches deep by 4
inches high) for
media components.
The Alexander
includes two adjustable shelves for storage that are wide enough for media
components and game consoles. The unit is available in a midnight cherry finish.
Contact: www.twinstarhome.com.
Flatfire
Make room for the
award-winning Flatfire direct-vent
gas fireplace, designed by the
Wittus team and Paul Henning.
This eloquent, easy-to-install,
well-designed unit can be used to
add a dramatic finishing touch to
any room. A window to the world
of fire, the rectangular glass
facade provides the perfect
viewing arena for the captivating
flames. The Flatfire fireplace is 42
inches wide, 30 inches tall, and 7.5
inches deep, and the size of this
unit offers countless design
possibilities. In keeping with its
European style, the Flatfire comes
in black or silver gray, with various
custom frame options. Along with its heater-approved status (with heating of up to
20,000 Btu), this unit uses the latest Maxitrol e-flame valve-control featurewhich is
radiofrequency operated and battery powered, so no additional power is needed. Its
easy to operate, with electronic ignition, remote-control temperature-sensor capability,
and temperature-timer functions. Contact: (914) 764-5679 or www.wittus.com.
Big Pig and Little
Pig Cabinet
Smokers
Stone Age Manufacturing introduces
the Big Pig
and Little Pig
, a pair of
refractory-concrete and steel masonry
cabinet smokers. The Big Pig, at 7 feet tall,
offers plenty of cooking area, while the
Little Pig offers similar features in a
scaled-down, five-foottall package. Both
feature a unique venting system for
complete temperature control and thick,
insulating walls for maximum thermal
efficiency, and they will accept any
masonry-compatible finish, allowing
seamless blending into any outdoor
design. Contact:
www.stoneagemanufacturing.com.
Merit Series Louverless
B-vent Gas Fireplace
The new Merit
series louverless B-vent (MLBV) gas fireplace from Lennox

Hearth Products produces tall, dramatic flames and a warm ember glow at very
low Btu levels, reducing fuel consumption and costs without sacrificing quality.
The louverless design delivers a clean, traditional-masonry look that is quick
and easy to install. Available in both 35- and 40-inch sizes, the MLBV features
highly detailed logs that replicate the natural appearance of real wood.
Contact: www.lennox.com.
Northstar
Northstar retro-styled appliances
from Elmira Stove Works are great for
kitchens, recreation rooms, and
cottages. The Northstar line includes
refrigerators, ranges, microwaves, range
hoods, and dishwashers. They are
available in nine colors, plus infinite
custom colors. For the model shown,
with an optional keg system, the MSRP
is $3,995. National advertising support
and protected dealer territories are
available. Contact: (800) 295-8498 or
www.ElmiraStoveWorks.com.
P
R
O
D
U
C
T
Firepits by Faulkner
Faulkner Furniture introduces new firepits with distinct design and elegance. They are
great for enjoying safe, warm fires outdoorsin the campground, in the backyard, or on
the patio. These firepits are constructed of 100% steel with a black finish that is attractive,
but durable enough to withstand high temperatures. The bowl is 7 inches deep and 29
inches in diameter, surrounded by a 5-inchwide mesh-screen table contour, for a total
diameter of 40 inches. The height from the floor to the mesh rim is 14 inches. The firepits
are available in standard or diamond mesh designs and are sold in boxes of two. Contact:
(888) 346-2184 or www.faulknerfurniture.com.
Cuisinart
Petit Tabletop
Gas Grill
Get great grilled flavor every
day from this compact,
high-performance grill. Its small
format means that it can be put
almost anywhere for ultimate
convenience. Although the grill
is compact, its 145square-inch
cooking grate is large enough to
cook most family meals, such as
eight steaks or hamburgers,
610 chicken breasts, or over 4 pounds of fish. This 5,500 Btu grill heats up very quickly
and uses far less gas than a full-sized grill. Best of all, with its great portability features,
this grill can cook your meals wherever you go: the beach, the game, the
campsiteanywhere. Folding legs, a grill-lid latch, a generous carrying handle, and the
spill-resistant drip tray all enhance portability. Contact: (617) 467-6390 or
sales@thefulhamgroup.com.
Outlook
Collection
Microfibres Inc. has introduced the
Outlook collection, an eye-catching
array of durable, 100% acrylic
outdoor/indoor fabrics. Pictured (from
left) are Martina, Harbortown, Octavia,
and Tiki. The complete collection
consists of seven patterns and a total
of 38 SKUs. The six major patterns are
available in four to six colors, while Tiki
is available in 10 colors. Contact:
www.microfibres.com.
Solmaya
Worship the sun in style in your own personal hemisphere. This whimsical daybed
invites luxurious relaxation. Enveloping cushions and a flirty sun sail complement the
asymmetrical frame. The Solmaya set by Sokul Outdoor Living consists of a daybed, an
armchair, and an ottoman. Solmayas poly-fiber weave is available in six different colors,
and the set includes an extensive range of fabric choices. Contact: www.sokul.com.
Salona
The Salona
collection by Joe
Ruggiero for
Woodard offers a
clean and
contemporary look.
The square aluminum
extrusion enhances
the sleekness of this
cutting-edge design.
The simple elegance
of Salona exemplifies
the notion of
extending your
indoor-living space to
the outdoors and is
sure to enhance any outdoor setting.
Contact: www.woodard-furniture.com.
Mercury Bed and Sun Lounge
TUUCIs Mercury bed and sun lounge is constructed with TUUCIs polished-titanium
Armor-Wall
aluminum frame and modular marine-grade components. High-performance

fabric cushions, bed coverings, and sheer privacy curtains, all topped with shade, create
the ultimate in open-air relaxation. Contact: (305) 634-5116 or www.tuuci.com.
Advertiser Phone Website Page
AEI .............................................. (949) 474-3070.......... www.aeigrillsandheaters.com............ 67
Agio ............................................ (888) 997-7623.......... www.agio-usa.com .......................... 5
American Fireglass .......................... (888) 264-1017.......... www.americanfireglass.com ............ 55
BDS Enterprises .............................. (702) 448-5600.......... www.galaxyoutdoor.com ................ 17
Blaze King .................................... (509) 522-2730.......... www.blazeking.com ...................... 65
Bradford Lifestyles............................ (604) 241-1030.......... www.bradfordlifestyles.com.............. 14
Bull Outdoor Products ...................... (800) 521-2855.......... www.bullbbq.com .......................... 33
California Outdoor Concepts............ (877) 274-6773.......... www.californiaoutdoorconcepts.com.. 57
Cedarstore.com.............................. (888) 293-2339.......... www.CedarStore.com.................... 62
Companion Group.......................... (800) 521-0505.......... www.companion-group.com ............ 61
Danver .......................................... (888) 441-0537.......... www.danver.com............................ 74
Designs By Garry............................ (949) 581-1919.......... www.exteriorfireplaces.com.............. 69
DuraVent........................................ (800) 835-4429.......... www.duravent.com ........................ 44
Earths Flame .................................. (888) 201-8805.......... www.earthsflame.com .................... 75
EcoSmart Fire ................................ (888) 590-4335.......... www.ecosmartfire.com .................... 20
Elmira Stove Works ........................ (800) 295-8498.......... www.elmirastoveworks.com.............. 64
Empire Comfort Systems .................. (800) 851-3153.......... www.empirecomfort.com ................ 29
ENERVEX ...................................... (800) 255-2923.......... www.chimneyfans.com.................... 47
FMI Products .................................. (866) 328-4537 ........ www.fmiproducts.com .................... 56
Gensun Casual Living...................... (866) 964-4468.......... www.gensuncasual.com .................. 21
Glen Raven/Sunbrella .................... (336) 221-2211.......... www.sunbrella.com ........................ 49
Golden Blount ................................ (800) 833-1139.......... www.goldenblountinc.com .............. 34
The HammockSource ...................... (800) 334-1078.......... www.thehammocksource.com .......... 58
Hargrove Manufacturing .................. (800) 725-4166.......... www.hargrovegaslogs.com.............. 11
Hearth & Home Technologies............ (800) 669-4328.......... www.hearthnhome.com .................. 84
Hearth Products Controls .................. (877) 433-7001.......... www.hearthproductscontrols.com ...... 45
Hearth, Patio &
Barbecue Association .................... (703) 522-0086.......... www.hpbexpo.com ................ 79, 83
Hitzer............................................ (260) 589-8536.......... www.hitzer.com ............................ 76
Infratech ........................................ (800) 421-9455.......... www.infratech-usa.com .................. 71
Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet .......... (800) 868-1699.......... www.kalamazoogourmet.com.......... 39
Kamado Joe .................................. (678) 866-0642.......... www.kamadojoe.com .................... 41
Kenyon International ........................ (860) 664-4906.......... www.kenyonappliances.com .......... 70
KIWI Camp Dry ............................ (800) 830-4152.......... www.kiwicampdry.com.................... 63
Lennox Hearth Products .................... (800) 9-LENNOX ........ www.lennox.com.............................. 3
Miles Industries .............................. (800) 468-2567.......... www.valorfireplaces.com ................ 43
MLW Stone .................................. (800) 477-7665.......... www.mlwstone.com........................ 77
Modern Home Products .................. (888) 647-4745.......... www.mhpgrills.com ........................ 54
Monessen Hearth Systems ................ (800) 867-0454.......... www.monessenhearth.com .............. 27
Napoleon Products ........................ (800) 461-5581.......... www.napoleonproducts.com .............. 7
Onward Manufacturing.................... (800) 245-5138.......... www.omcbbq.com ........................ 31
Outdoor Greatroom ........................ (866) 303-4028.......... www.outdoorrooms.com.................. 59
OW Lee........................................ (800) 776-9533.......... www.owlee.com .............................. 9
RH Peterson Company .................... (800) 332-0240.......... www.rhpeterson.com ...................... 13
SCHOTT ROBAX ............................ (914) 831-2200.......... www.schottrobax.com ...................... 2
Select Outdoor Kitchens .................. (800) 624-6512.......... www.selectoutdoorkitchens.com ........ 35
Selkirk Corp. .................................. (800) 992-8368.......... www.selkirkcorp.com ...................... 25
Stone Age Manufacturing ................ (877) 371-8861.......... www.stoneagemanufacturing.com .... 60
SunBriteTV...................................... (866) 357-8688.......... www.sunbritetv.com ........................ 53
Team Grill ...................................... (978) 635-1800.......... www.teamgrill.com ........................ 73
Twin-Star/Classic Flame .................. (866) 661-1218.......... www.twinstarhome.com .................. 23
Two Dogs Designs for Outdoor Living (866) 896-3644.......... www.twodogsdesigns.com .............. 15
Wittus .......................................... (914) 764-5679.......... www.wittus.com ............................ 72
ad
I NDEX
product profiles
DI RECTORY
Company Page
AEI .......................................................................................................... 50
Agio.................................................................................................. 52, 54
American Fireglass .............................................................................. 52, 54
Big Woods Hearth Products ........................................................................ 52
Blaze King.......................................................................................... 52, 58
Bradford Lifestyles ................................................................................ 52, 59
Bull Outdoor Products .......................................................................... 59, 62
California Outdoor Concepts ................................................................ 56, 59
Cedarstore.com .................................................................................. 54, 60
Companion Group .............................................................................. 58, 62
Cuisinart .................................................................................................. 81
Danver .................................................................................................... 60
Designs By Garry ................................................................................ 56, 60
DuraVent ............................................................................................ 62, 64
Earths Flame ...................................................................................... 62, 69
EcoSmart Fire...................................................................................... 64, 66
Elmira Stove Works .............................................................................. 74, 80
Empire Comfort Systems ........................................................................ 65, 68
ENERVEX............................................................................................ 65, 66
Faulkner Furniture ...................................................................................... 81
FMI Products ...................................................................................... 66, 68
Galaxy Outdoor ............................................................................ 52, 56, 58
Gensun Casual Living .......................................................................... 50, 63
Glen Raven/Sunbrella .......................................................................... 63, 67
Golden Blount .................................................................................... 58, 65
The HammockSource............................................................................ 64, 66
Hargrove Manufacturing ...................................................................... 65, 66
Hearth & Home Technologies ................................................................ 66, 68
Hearth Products Controls ...................................................................... 67, 68
Hitzer ................................................................................................ 68, 70
Hot Smoke Trading Company ................................................................ 70, 72
Infrared Dynamics ...................................................................................... 68
Infratech............................................................................................ 70, 72
Kalamazoo Outdoor Gourmet ................................................................ 71, 72
Kamado Joe........................................................................................ 67, 71
Kenyon International ............................................................................ 69, 74
KIWI Camp Dry ........................................................................................ 72
Lennox Hearth Products ........................................................................ 71, 80
Microfibres .............................................................................................. 81
Miles Industries .................................................................................... 50, 73
MLW Stone .............................................................................................. 73
Modern Home Products ........................................................................ 74, 76
Monessen Hearth Systems .................................................................... 73, 74
Napoleon Products .............................................................................. 73, 75
NorthCape International........................................................................ 75, 77
Onward Manufacturing ........................................................................ 76, 78
Outdoor Greatroom ............................................................................ 63, 69
OW Lee ............................................................................................ 75, 77
RH Peterson Company .......................................................................... 75, 77
SCHOTT ROBAX ...................................................................................... 77
Select Outdoor Kitchens ........................................................................ 76, 78
Selkirk Corp. ...................................................................................... 76, 78
Sokul Outdoor Living .................................................................................. 81
Stone Age Manufacturing...................................................................... 78, 80
SunBriteTV .......................................................................................... 50, 79
Team Grill .......................................................................................... 79, 80
TUUCI ......................................................................................................81
Twin-Star/Classic Flame.................................................................. 77, 78, 80
Two Dogs Designs for Outdoor Living ...................................................... 76, 78
Wittus................................................................................................ 79, 80
Woodard ................................................................................................ 81
Patio & Hearth Products Report (ISSN 1939-6929) is published bimonthly by Peninsula Media, 21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 700, Torrance, CA 90503. US Postage Paid at Lebanon Junction, KY 40150.
January/February 2011, Vol 6, No 1 2011 Peninsula Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. POSTMASTER: Send
address changes to Peninsula Media, 21250 Hawthorne Blvd., Suite 700, Torrance, CA 90503-5514, patioandhearth@halldata.com, phone: (847) 763-9261. While the publishers have made every effort to ensure
the accuracy of the materials presented in Patio & Hearth Products Report, they are not responsible for the correctness of the information and/or opinions expressed.

PHPR 01 02

Încărcat de

Informații document

Titlu original

Drepturi de autor

Formate disponibile

Partajați acest document

Partajați sau inserați document

Opțiuni de partajare

Vi se pare util acest document?

Este necorespunzător acest conținut?

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

PHPR 01 02

Încărcat de

Drepturi de autor:

Formate disponibile

M

is a registered trademark of SCHOTT AG.

To become an Agio Retailer, call 888.997.7623 or contact us at info@agio-usa.com

. Thats why our Agio Reserve

dealers continue, year after year, to look to us for stunning

1-800-461-5581 napoleonreplaces.com napoleongrills.com

Booth #1521 & 1536

Circle Reader Service No. 7

has introduced a hybrid grate for wood-burning fireplaces that is

mosaic-stone tabletops and the companys

cushions and pillows, custom

, and other manufacturers.

cushions and pillows.

Double Wall Stove

Hardware Corp. in 1973, changing the stores

, Fire Magic, and

polypropylene for the surface and backing of all its

I believe that specialty

furniture provides seating and

presentation, and plenty of details on

collections. With comfortable deep seating

is the must-have grilling

is a new hearth product that

is the latest offering in

firebrick lining, which is indistinguishable from site-built masonry.

Equestrian collection, is based in rich

fabric is as weather tough as it is cottony soft, while South American

cypress hammock stand is sold separately. Contact: (800)

updated its entire line of direct-vent gas inserts with the

models are the Escape-I35FB and the

models S25 and S34 are outdoor-rated

Q Outdoors blends design and function into

and a versatile wall-mount

patio fabric protector is a new

system and included

rod cooking grids, a deluxe high top, a

grill lend itself to use at

tab closures on four sides, with a Velcro midtie fastener

glass-ceramic 3D panels now

wood-fired pizza oven, the

outdoor covers that fit any shape

fasteners on four sides for a

and Little Pig

series louverless B-vent (MLBV) gas fireplace from Lennox

aluminum frame and modular marine-grade components. High-performance

S-ar putea să vă placă și