kitchenware news v16i10

24
Do-it-yourself kitchenware products are helping consumers save more money on their grocery bills. Home cooks are preparing more items from homemade jams to homemade sausage, leading to a rise in the sales of back-to-basics products such as canning supplies, meat grinders and more. Owner Marge Junkhan of Cook’s Emporium in Ames, Iowa, said there’s a rising consciousness among people that homemade food products result in food that is better in quality and flavor. “People are much more conscious about the quality of their food, and where their food comes from,” she said. “They’re reading more about nutrition, about how food is produced and grown, and they’re willing to pay for it. They realize there’s a lot of health benefits to eating good food as well as pleasure in eating quality food.” New York Tabletop Week brings in buyers from around the country who are eager to view the latest designs for both casual and formal dining. Scattered among three venues—41 Madison, 7 W New York and 230 Fifth Ave.—this twice- a-year event has showroom operators and the buildings themselves in preparation mode. While the economy continues to be on everyone’s mind, Laurie Burns, Senior Vice President/Director for 41 Madison, said she is “cautiously optimistic, with the emphasis on optimistic.” Manufacturers and retailers alike are looking toward the holidays to prove whether the economy has turned around. Burns says the October market, which runs the 12th through 15th, generates some last-minute Christmas buying, but serves mainly as a showcase for new designs. www.kitchenwarenews.com Buildings Gear Up for Tabletop Market Week by Joanne Friedrick VOLUME 16, NUMBER 10 OCTOBER 2010 Do-It-Yourself Products Help Consumers Go Back to the Basics by Carrie Bui Continued on Page 19 Housewares Review & K ITCHENWARE NEWS SERVING KITCHENWARE , HOUSEWARES AND TABLETOP MARKETS MARKET WATCH: BACK-TO-BASICS PRODUCTS SEE PAGE 1 BUYERS’ GUIDE: GLASSWARE SEE PAGE 16 SPECIAL FEATURE: TABLETOP MARKET PREVIEW SEE PAGE 1 INSIDE: SMALL ELECTRICS Continued on Page 15

Upload: yasmine-brown

Post on 26-Mar-2016

237 views

Category:

Documents


6 download

DESCRIPTION

GLASSWARE BACK-TO-BASICS PRODUCTS TABLETOP MARKET PREVIEW w w w. k i t c h e n w a r e n e w s . c o m INS IDE : SMA LL ELEC TRI CS SEE PAGE 16 SEE PAGE 1 SEE PAGE 1 New York Tabletop Week brings in buyers from around the country who are eager to view the latest designs for both casual and formal dining. Burns says the October market, which runs the 12th through 15th, generates some last-minute Christmas buying, but serves mainly as a showcase for new designs. by Carrie Bui by Joanne Friedrick

TRANSCRIPT

Page 1: Kitchenware News v16i10

Do-it-yourself kitchenware products are helpingconsumers save more money on their grocerybills. Home cooks are preparing more itemsfrom homemade jams to homemade sausage,leading to a rise in the sales of back-to-basicsproducts such as canning supplies, meat grindersand more.

Owner Marge Junkhan of Cook’s Emporium inAmes, Iowa, said there’s a rising consciousnessamong people that homemade food productsresult in food that is better in quality and flavor.“People are much more conscious about thequality of their food, and where their food comesfrom,” she said. “They’re reading more aboutnutrition, about how food is produced and grown,and they’re willing to pay for it. They realizethere’s a lot of health benefits to eating good foodas well as pleasure in eating quality food.”

New York Tabletop Week brings in buyersfrom around the country who are eager toview the latest designs for both casual andformal dining.

Scattered among three venues—41 Madison, 7W New York and 230 Fifth Ave.—this twice-a-year event has showroom operators and thebuildings themselves in preparation mode.

While the economy continues to be oneveryone’s mind, Laurie Burns, Senior VicePresident/Director for 41 Madison, said she is“cautiously optimistic, with the emphasis onoptimistic.” Manufacturers and retailers alike arelooking toward the holidays to prove whetherthe economy has turned around.

Burns says the October market, which runs the12th through 15th, generates some last-minuteChristmas buying, but serves mainly as ashowcase for new designs.

w w w . k i t c h e n w a r e n e w s . c o m

Buildings Gear Up forTabletop Market Week

by Joanne Friedrick

VOLUME 16, NUMBER 10 OCTOBER 2010

Do-It-Yourself ProductsHelp Consumers Go Back to the Basics

by Carrie Bui

Continued on Page 19

H o u s e w a r e s R e v i e w&KITCHENWARE NEWSS E R V I N G K I T C H E N W A R E , H O U S E W A R E S A N D T A B L E T O P M A R K E T S

MARKET WATCH:BACK-TO-BASICS PRODUCTS

SEE PAGE 1

BUYERS’ GUIDE:GLASSWARE

SEE PAGE 16

SPECIAL FEATURE:TABLETOP MARKET PREVIEW

SEE PAGE 1

INSIDE:SMALL

ELECTRICS

Continued on Page 15

Page 3: Kitchenware News v16i10

www.kitchenwarenews.com Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 3

O N T H E C O V E R

{ s h o r t s }

6 GUEST COLUMN

7 RETAILER PROFILE

10 PRODUCT REVIEW

16 BUYERS’ GUIDE

22 AD INDEX

TJX Profits Up Nearly 17 Percent as Sales ClimbCustomer traffic “continued to increasesignificantly” during the quarter as moreshoppers gave up shopping at high-pricedretailers to seek designer brands at deepdiscounts at stores run by TJX. Andrevenue from locations open at least ayear—considered a key comparison becauseit excludes stores that open or close duringthe year—rose 3 percent.

The company, based in Framingham, Mass.,said its net income was $305 million, or 74cents per share. That’s up from $261.6million, or 61 cents per share, in the quarter

a year earlier. Excluding one-time items, TJXearned 73 cents per share during the mostrecent period. Revenue climbed more than 6percent to $5.07 billion, up from $4.75 billion.

TJX boosted its full-year outlook, sayingit now expects to earn $3.28 to $3.38 pershare. It previously expected to earn $3.24to $3.33 per share for the year, up from$2.84 the year before.

TJX has about 2,700 stores among itsvarious chains in the United States,Canada and Europe.

More customers shopped TJX Cos. storesfor discounted housewares and clothing,according to an Associated Press reportof its earnings conference call, helping itssecond-quarter sales rise and net incomegrow nearly 17 percent.

The company that owns the HomeGoods,T.J. Maxx and Marshalls chains also raisedits full-year outlook, offering yet anotherquarter of stark contrast between TJX andmany of its full-price competitors, whosesales have fallen or stagnated as theeconomy continues to sputter.

Browne & Co. Consolidates BrandsRösle and Mauviel. The change is effectiveJan. 1, 2011. Browne leased space inDelaware as part of a cooperative with theother brands there.

Both of the existing locations will beshared facilities with Browne & Co.’s Food Service division Browne-Halco, and will represent a more streamlinedapproach to management of the businessand ability to serve customer needs,

according to a company release. ElizabethBurns, Cuisipro’s Senior MarketingManager, said jobs will be gained in both Memphis and Union as a result of this move.

Peter Braley, Chief Operating Officer ofthe Retail Division will lead the neworganization and operate from the NewJersey location. Deb Flynn, based inBuffalo, N.Y., will take on theresponsibility of National Sales Managerfor all the Browne retail brands and willcontinue to report to Braley.

Browne & Co. has consolidated logisticsand sales management for all U.S. retailactivity of its corporately owned brandsCuisipro, Duncan Kitchen Grips, Berardand Basics.

The Canadian company is movingmanagement and logistics to its corporatefacilities in Union, N.J., and Memphis,Tenn., from New Castle, Del., where itworked in partnership with Emile Henry,

october 2010contentsby Dan Koch, Vitamix Corp.

R.S.V.P. INTERNATIONALEndurance® 20 Qt. Water Bath Canner[tel] 206.282.1037www.rsvp-intl.com

HANNON GROUP LTD.Roasted Garlic Express[tel] 262.537.2191www.hannongroup.com

BIA CORDON BLEU INC.Balvery Design Studio's Feather Edge Dinnerware[tel] 800.242.2210www.biacordonblu.com

DANSKDansk Hanna Glassware[tel] 800.326.7528www.dansk.com

MIELEMiele CVA 2650ST Coffee System[tel] 800.843.7231www.mieleusa.com

SIGNATURE HOUSEWARESSorrento Plates[tel] 805.484.6666www.sighouse.com

a

b

c

d

e

f

a

b

c d

e

f

NOVEMBERBest New Products of the Year

Best Tech 2010Cutlery/Cutting Boards Supplement

Woodenware Buyers’ Guide

futurefeatures

Page 4: Kitchenware News v16i10

4 Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 www.kitchenwarenews.com

Here we are in the fourth quarter already! How did we get here so quickly?There are 80-plus days remaining in 2010 at this point as the economylimps along. Slight upticks are knocked down by news of unemployment or housing dips, but wehave to keep pushing onward one foot in front of the other as the economy improves gradually.

In this issue we update the small electrics category in time for the holiday season. Product designand innovation remain robust in this category. Back-to-basics products are the focus of this month’sMarket Watch, and we look at the very latest in kitchen do-it-yourself products to support thedine-at-home trend. And the Buyer’s Guide this month gives a round-up on glass beveragewareas we look forward to the Tabletop Market.

Back-to-basics or do-it-yourself kitchenware products are a favorite topic and help consumerssave more money on their grocery bill, Associate Editor Carrie Bui reports this month.Consumers are motivated by not only money-saving, but by preserving food nutrition andcontrolling what we eat as we all strive for healthier food habits. Retailers are riding this trendby stocking items designed to help people can, pickle, make their own jams and jellies, sausagesand pasta. This burgeoning area has led to not only an increase in demand for the core products,but by extension, complementary gadgets, and cooking classes and demonstrations are being offeredby retailers as a way to expose more customers to the trend.

According to a retailer on the East Coast, their infused oils class is very popular. Consumerslearn how to infuse oils and salts using fresh herbs. Such classes encourage sales of do-it-yourselfkitchen tools such as cheesecloths, strainers and stockpots. A natural off-shoot of this arehomemade gifts, which encourage sales of decorative bottles, cruets, jars and labels. And a newholiday gift is born!

Karen Taylor, [email protected]

&H o u s e w a r e s R e v i e wKITCHENWARE NEWS

This month’s article on back-to-basics products made me think aboutmy own experience with preserving food, mostly through my friends.I’ve never personally ventured into the land of making my own pickles, jam or salsa, butI know plenty of people who have.

Just the other day, a friend was talking about all the peaches she canned after harvestingan unusually large crop from her single peach tree. She was also planning to make preserves,and some of us got to sample those peaches in a cobbler that she made. Yum!

Another friend who likes to shop the farmer’s markets has given me homemade salsa, andI recall an old pal from my Chicago days who used to spend a Saturday afternoon eachsummer in the kitchen creating pesto from her homegrown basil. Her husband had hopsplants, the result of which he used for home-brewed beer.

It seems people everywhere, in big cities and small towns and traditional farmingcommunities, are discovering (or in many cases, just continuing) a love affair with do-it-yourself kitchen projects.

Many of us have always enjoyed cooking, but I think preserving, pickling, curing, and thelike takes it to a different level.

My mother used to make pickles, and I can still picture the kitchen table covered with jarsand flour sack towels on which to rest the boiled lids and rings. My dad grew the cucumbersand the dill, and mom turned them into pickles that we ate throughout the year. She alsotook the tomatoes that he harvested, stewed them and then froze them so we could havethat summer-fresh taste whenever we wanted it.

While I know some kitchenware retailers have always stocked supplies for home canningor sausage making, I’m glad to see that many more are getting into it, carrying everythingfrom gadgets to cookbooks to heavy-duty canning supplies. Even with all the wonderfulgourmet foods that replicate what grandma used to make, there is something special aboutcreating your own and then sharing it with family and friends.

Personally, I’m hoping one of those jars of peach preserves finds it way to my house…

Joanne Friedrick, Editor

[email protected]

w w w . k i t c h e n w a r e n e w s . c o m

Periodicals postage paid at Tucson, AZ and additional mail-

ing office. Kitchenware News & Housewares Review

(USPS012-625) is published 12 times per year (Jan., Feb.,

March, April, May, June, July, Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov. and

Dec.) by Oser Communications Group, 1877 N. Kolb Road,

Tucson, AZ, 85715 (520) 721.1300. Publisher assumes no

responsibility for unsolicited material or prices quoted in

newspaper. Contributors are responsible for proper release

of proprietary classified information. ©2010 by Oser Com-

munications Group. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in

whole or in part, without written permission of the pub-

lisher, is expressly prohibited. Back issues, when available,

cost $8 each within the past 12 months. Back issue orders

must be paid in advance by check. Kitchenware News &

Housewares Review is distributed without charge in North

America to qualified professionals in the retail and distri-

bution channels of the upscale kitchenware and tabletop

trade. For subscriber services, including subscription infor-

mation, call (520) 721.1300. Printed in the USA. POST-

MASTER: Send address changes to Kitchenware News &

Housewares Review, 1877 N. Kolb Road, Tucson, AZ 85715.

PUBLISHER Karen [email protected][tel] 323.397.9507

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Lorrie [email protected]

EDITOR Joanne [email protected][tel] 207.780.8656

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Carrie [email protected]

Kelly [email protected]

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Valerie [email protected]

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Yasmine [email protected]

TRAFFIC MANAGER Selene [email protected]

SUBSCRIBER SERVICES 1877 N. Kolb RoadTucson, Arizona 85715[tel] 520.721.1300[fax] 520.721.6300

KITCHENWARE/HOUSEWARES ADVERTISING

SENIOR Kate SeymourASSOCIATE PUBLISHER [email protected]

[tel] 520.721.1300

Kitchenware News & Housewares Review is apublication of ELM Communications, a division of

Oser Communications Group, Inc.1877 N. Kolb Road Tucson, AZ 85715

www.oser.com

PRESIDENT Lee M. Oser

publisher’snote

editor’snote

Page 6: Kitchenware News v16i10

6 Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 www.kitchenwarenews.com

Make the Most of the Moment with Demo Dos and Don’ts

“Show, don’t tell” is one of the greatestselling tips around. I don’t have to tellyou that seeing a new gourmet cheesespread or a premier kitchen appliancesitting on a store shelf is a completelydifferent experience from tasting it orseeing it in action. You’re much morelikely to buy a product that you’veexperienced firsthand.

I was amazed the first time I witnesseda Vitamix blender demonstration. Iknew what a blender was supposed to do,but I had certainly never seen one do allthat! The demonstrator was like amagician pulling rabbits out of his hat,showing how one kitchen appliancemade sauces, peanut butter and even hotsoup. Without the demonstration, I would’ve thought it just made great smoothies. The demonstrator’sshowmanship, clean and rehearsedpresentation, and product knowledge iswhat caught my attention and broughtthe product to life. I’ve been withVitamix for many years now, so it’s fairto say I’ve done my fair share of retaildemos. From my experience, here arethe best things to keep in mind whenconducting a product demonstration.

Whether it ’s a pre-packaged scone mixthat tastes like it was made from scratch, or a coffeemaker that’s moreuser-friendly than other models on the market, it ’s important that thecustomer actually experiences the benefit and product value. For Vitamixdemonstrations, preparing hot soup is a customer favorite. The audience is instantly wowed when the lid is lifted and steam rises out of

the container.

The person demonstrating the product should be outgoing, dressedprofessionally and, most importantly,knowledgeable and passionate about the product. It’s vital the demonstratorbe familiar with the product’s featuresand benefits and be prepared to answer questions.

Pick a recipe that is easy and fun to watch. It’s great to use festive recipesduring the holidays because everyone likes a party. Choosing the right recipewill allow the demonstrator to show howeasy it is to prepare for holiday partiesand events.

Conduct your product demonstration ina spacious and easily accessible high-traffic area of the store. Customers needto be able to see and get to your sampleseasily. Make sure the area is clean andpresentable because you’re dealing withfood. Product demonstrations are also an excellent opportunity to cross-merchandise with other foods, gadgetsand appliances to increase store sales.

Have a “takeaway” available forcustomers that includes a call to action.I like to leave cards with the recipe I amdemonstrating. The cards contain a linkto our website to try more of the Vitamixrecipes. It’s a great tool to keep peopleinterested in learning more about us andshow them how many ways they canenjoy the machine.

Dan Koch is the National Sales Manager

of Vitamix Corp.

columnguest

by Dan Koch

Vitamix Corp.

Page 7: Kitchenware News v16i10

www.kitchenwarenews.com Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 7

Sometimes it’s the little things that can takea project from idea to completion. For LeahDaniels, Owner of a kitchenware store inWashington, D.C.’s Eastern Marketneighborhood near the Capitol, it was aname. Or more specifically, the store’s name,Hill’s Kitchen.

“I had an idea of what I wanted to do, but I didn’thave a name or a firm concept,” she said. “Thenwe got the name and it all came together.”

Creating Hill’s Kitchen, the name of which wassuggested by Daniels’ father, was a multi-yearproject, starting with remodeling the townhouse where it resides and then filling itwith products. Daniels, a D.C. native who hasa history degree and previously managed abookstore, said even from an early age, she wasinterested in food and wanted to run arestaurant. Although she doesn’t have aprofessional culinary background, Daniels said,“I love to cook. I love to retail. But most of all,I love to follow customers from the ideas of whatthey want to actually finding the right tools.”

The store then, she said, “was a little bit ofinterest in culinary arts, and a little bit offilling a niche.”

The Eastern Market neighborhood is namedfor a public market that became thecenterpiece of the area. Today there is afarmer’s market and Sunday flea market in thearea, along with a mix of retail and residential.Daniels said she draws about half her clientsfrom the neighborhood, and many otherscome via the Metro, which has a stationacross the street from her store.

When she opened in May 2008, saidDaniels, the area was rebuilding after afire had destroyed the original marketbuilding. A temporary one was put inplace, with a new version of the marketbuilding opening in 2009.

“Community support (for Hill’s Kitchen)was there from the start,” she said, “eventhough we opened at a difficult time. I justkind of took what came,” she explained.Publicity came quickly for the store, includingan article in the Washington Post just twoweeks after Hill’s Kitchen opened. Danielssaid she loves serving local customers, mostof whom she won’t remember by name, butrather by the items they bought, or theproducts they asked about.

In looking to differentiate her shop, Danielssaid she decided to feature cookie cutters fromall 50 states, as well as one she had created thatoutlines Washington. The idea came fromwhen she was in college in Minnesota, sherecalled, and she would buy Minnesota-themedgifts, including cookie cutters, for her familyand friends. And when she attended her firsttrade show in 2006 and immediately found avendor with state-shaped cookie cutters, sheknew her idea was meant to be.

Stocking the 1,400-square-foot space is basedon a combination of what Daniels finds atshows and through reps, and what customers

request. “If something is superfluous, I don’tstock it,” she said. “But if several people askfor it, then I probably will carry it.” Danielssaid she started with 2,000 items, thinkingthat was an overwhelming number, but todaycarries about 5,000 products.

And she noted that her products have turnedto more giftable, yet practical items as theeconomy has struggled. “Especially in toughtimes,” she said, “people stop buying forthemselves, but they still buy gifts.” Items inthe category include tea towels, which servea purpose, but are still beautiful and fun forthe gift giver and receiver.

She does stay away from most tabletop itemssuch as tablecloths, soup tureens and placesettings. “It’s very difficult to carry if youdon’t have the space,” she said, especiallybecause her philosophy is to offer multiplechoices within a category. “I don’t just haveone cooling rack, I have seven kinds,” she said.

She said editing her stock “is good refocusingfor me,” even though there are times of year,such as Thanksgiving, when people wantHill’s to be a one-stop shop with everythingfrom turkey basters to platters to table linens.

Some areas she has come to focus on includesmall electrics and books. “Electrics startedoff being a convenience item, but it has

become a significant section of my store. I’msurprised by how well I’ve done in electricsand in books,” she said. Hill’s offers about 600titles, and books account for about 5 percentof sales, she said.

Among the current top sellers is the SodaStream, a use-at-home device for makingcarbonated beverages. Not only have theunits sold well, she noted, but also the needfor replacement cartridges has brought peopleback to the store on a regular basis.

Another feature that is a draw for Hill’sKitchen is the cooking class area on the secondlevel. The store was built with cooking inmind, she said, and classes began in February2009. While people love the classes, Danielssaid she worries it is almost too much of a goodthing, with customers coming for classes andnot what the store itself has to offer.

“The classes have been great, but it’sfrustrating that some people are moreinterested in the classes than in the store,” sheconceded. The classes do add “great warmth”to the store, she said, and some of that doestrickle down to the store floor. Most classesoccur on the weekend and some weekdayevenings, she said.

Hill’s Kitchen doesn’t have a lot ofcompetition in the immediate area, saidDaniels, except for a hardware store thatstocks some housewares and a grocery storethat also offers a few items. More so, she said,competitors like Bed Bath and Beyond,Williams-Sonoma and Sur La Table arereached via the Metro.

But probably the biggest competitor, shesaid, is the Internet. People come into thestore for one-on-one information ondifferent products, but then turn to theWeb to make their purchases. “I try to keepprices as low as I can,” she said, and formost people looking to shop in thecommunity and work with a retailer whogives to local charities, that works.

Hill’s Kitchen is open Tuesday throughSunday, but Daniels noted she is there sevendays a week. That makes it difficult, she said,to attend trade shows, even though she hasat least one other person on each day and twofor the weekend. The store’s configuration—16 feet wide by 84 feet long—requires atleast two people to cover the front and theback, she said.

In another year to two, Daniels said she’d liketo add another store. “But I’m still learninga lot. At some point I’d like to expand, butI’m not there yet.” She said the Internet won’tbe part of that expansion plan as onlineretailing isn’t part of her business model.

She does have a bridal registry that is accessibleonline, but customers still need to come intothe store to shop, or they can order by phone.“I love to chat with people during the processof picking out an item from the registry,” shesaid. “It’s a personal thing. If all I was doingwas data input, I wouldn’t enjoy it.”

Instead, said Daniels, she can relate to ashopper the bride’s enthusiasm for a particularitem, and they can buy it knowing they willmake someone very happy.

by Joanne Friedrick

Retailer ProfileHill’s Kitchen

Page 8: Kitchenware News v16i10

8 Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 www.kitchenwarenews.com

Four Companies Honored with Accent on Design Awards at NYIGF

serving tray in rich, black stainless steel.

Best Product: Wabnitz Editions ofColumbus, Ohio, for Boomerang Wok, byRoyal vkb, for “its innovation in industrialdesign, solving an age old problem.”Designed by Nikolai Carels, its uniquepatented edge shape alleviates the stressesof cooking by reducing the skills necessaryfor an evenly cooked meal—just a simplepush towards the curved edge of the panturns the food easily.

Best Product: Branch Lamps by Rich,Brilliant, Willing of New York as part ofthe American Design Club Collection, for“a modern classic used in a multitude ofways.” With bent wood arms attached tometal hubs resembling the branches of atree, the chandeliers, floor lamps and tablelamps filter light through perforated brassshades. Ebonized, natural and custom colorwood finishes are available.

Best Product: The Sasa Clock designed by ThorunnArnadottir for HeadsUpDesign Co. Inc. fromHousatonic, Mass., for “itsinterpretation on the conceptof time in an artistic andpoetic manner.” Made of apolished stainless steel huband beech wood beads, timecan be read from a color-coded necklace—with each

Four Accent on Design exhibitors werehonored for superior design creativity andinnovative product design, with awardspresented for Best Collection and BestProduct Design. Accent on Design is oneof 10 divisions of the New YorkInternational Gift Fair, which took placemid-August at the Jacob K. JavitsConvention Center.

“Accent on Design is a platform forsuperlative design talent, and these awardsare presented to the division’s mostinnovative resources,” said DorothyBelshaw, NYIGF Director and GLMSenior Vice President, in a preparedstatement. “These winners have achieveda superb blend of form and function intheir product designs.”

Best Product Collection: Paul Smith forStelton of Copenhagen, Denmark, “for re-imagining Arne Jacobsen’s classic Cylinda-Line collection and introducing color incelebration of Stelton’s 50th year.”Manufactured in Denmark, Paul Smithfor Stelton features AddColour, a series ofstainless steel iced water, tea and coffeejugs, and French press with muted, brightor pastel colored handles. Available in ninecolor palettes, Dot features three small,medium and large jars and bowls instainless steel with enamel tops andmouths. The collection’s bar set, Statement,includes ice bucket and tongs, cocktailshaker, martini mixer, glass coasters and

bead representing a five-minute increment.The necklace is available in both 12- and24-hour versions; natural wood with whitehour beads and blue stained wood withorange hour beads.

In addition to these award winners, theselection committee applauded thedirection of the following collectives:American Design Club, Object DesignLeague and Join Design Seattle. Together,these collectives from New York, Chicagoand Seattle are presenting the work of morethan 20 young designers. Judging criteriaincluded innovation, function, originalityand design. The summer 2010 Accent onDesign selection committee includedMiguel Calvo, Design & Research; DavidAlhadeff, The Future Perfect; Ilene Shaw,Shaw + Co! Productions; and WilmaWabnitz, Wabnitz Editions Ltd.

For more than 25 years, Accent on Designhas been the industry’s leading resource fordesign-led merchandise, presenting adynamic juried collection of contemporaryand innovative product lines from 200+exhibitors across all categories.

New Product Awards Given inTextiles, Eco Choice Categories

and Amber Kleiner. The Samsara TableLinens include a runner, square placematand matching dyed linen napkin and isavailable in two colorways. The linens’traditional embroidery is borrowed fromtheir Samsara decorative pillow. Otherfinalists were Scents & Feel of Miami forits set of tablecloths and napkins injacquard stripes; and SFERRA of Edison,N.J., for its Quilted Dots Placemat andDots Embroidery napkins.

Designers Guild of New York receivedBest in Show for its Orangerie Cushion,designed by Tricia Guild.

Other category winners were BodmerBlankets of Carlton, Ore., for its JaspéBlanket in the Bed category; Brahms Mountof Hallowell, Maine, for its Linen Towels inthe Bath category; and Alicia Adams AlpacaInc., Stanfordville, N.Y., for its Travel Setin the Home Accessories sector.

Three products from the more than 250eligible for judging were selected by retailersto receive Eco Choice Awards in threecategories: Most Innovative, Most SensitiveUse of Materials and Most Sellable.

Five companies participating in HomeTextiles Market Week in New York werepresented with Best New Product Awards,while three others received recognitionwith Eco Choice Awards.

New York Home Textiles Market Week,which took place during the New YorkInternational Gift Fair, includes exhibitorsin the Jacob K. Javits Center, Passenger ShipTerminal Piers 92 and 94, 230 Fifth Ave.and 7 W. 34th St. Products represented ateach of these venues include table linens,kitchen textiles, bed and bath fashions,towels, decorative accessories, area rugs,window treatments and decorative fabrics.

In addition to Best of Show, awards werepresented in four product-specific categories(Bed, Bath, Dining and Home Accessories)to winners and finalists selected by a panelof trade and consumer editors. Criteriaincluded innovation in design, creative useof materials/construction and new fiber,material or technology.

In the Dining category, the winner wasBlissliving Home, Rockville, Md., for itsSamsara Table Linens, designed by Mei Xu

The awards were co-sponsored by NYIGFand GREENRetailer and recognized thetop “green” gift and home productsshowcased in NYIGF’s juriedSustainAbility: design for a better worlddisplay. Winners were decided by popularballot, based on inventiveness, newness,aesthetics and functionality.

Kitchen Basics by Bambu, a line of kitchenimplements made from renewable, certifiedorganic bamboo with no added finishes orsubstances, won the Most Sellable Award.The eco-friendly production follows thecompany’s emphasis on both the processand the end product. There is a closeproximity between the source of materialand the labor team, which sustainablyharvests the bamboo and dries it in thesun. Bambu supports the GrameenFoundation, 3rd Millennium, NRDC andCollective Responsibility.

Most Sensitive Use of Materials was wonby On The Rocks by Sea Stones LLC.Using stone and wood, two of nature’s mostfundamentally recyclable materials, designerArra David created drink chillers that keepbeverages cool without diluting them. Thestone “ice cubes” are the re-purposed coresgenerated from drilling holes to create stonenapkin rings. Most Innovative went toEmerson House by Brinca Dada for itssolar panel-powered dollhouse.

{ h e a d l i n e s }Summer NYIGFLargest SinceRecessionThe 2010 New York International GiftFair turned out to be the largest editionsince summer 2008, with 2,800 exhibitorsin 534,000 net square feet of exhibit space.More than 33,500 attendees visited themarket, which ran Aug. 14 to 19 at NewYork’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Centerand Passenger Ship Terminal Piers 92 and 94.

Of the Fair’s 2,800 exhibitors, some 650 were new to NYIGF, with 400participating for the first time and 250returning after a hiatus from the New Yorkmarket, according to a prepared release. In total, 46 countries were represented, with a total of 20 international pavil- ions, including first-time participation by international government-sponsoreddelegations from Argentina, Egypt, SouthKorea and Thailand.

Eight of NYIGF’s 10 divisions were soldout for summer 2010 market, with themost notable growth in At Home, Tabletop& Housewares and Handmade.

“NYIGF’s timing—as the last majormarket of the summer season—wasbeneficial for buyers and exhibitors alike,with many retailers making their finalpurchasing decisions here in New York,”observed Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGFDirector and GLM Senior Vice President.

The winter 2011 edition of the New YorkInternational Gift Fair will run Jan. 29 to Feb. 3. Some 35,000 attendees from all50 states and more than 85 countriesworldwide are expected. Information and registration is available online at www.nyigf.com.

Page 9: Kitchenware News v16i10

www.kitchenwarenews.com Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 9

{ h e a d l i n e s }Crate and Barrel, Marimekko Open Shop-in-Shop at SoHo Store

shop-in-shops and e-commerce.

The relationship was forged in the early‘60s when Crate and Barrel Co-FoundersGordon and Carole Segal discoveredMarimekko at a store in Denmark. Thegoal of the Segals’ newly formed homefurnishings business was to offer well-designed, useful, quality products at a valueto their American customers. In 1967,Crate and Barrel presented the firstMarimekko fabric collections.

The collaboration draws on Crate andBarrel’s strong foundation in and

Crate and Barrel celebrated a significantpoint in its 43-year relationship withMarimekko by opening a shop-in-shopdedicated to the Finnish apparel, interiordesign and textile house.

Launched Oct. 14 at the Crate and Barrel location in SoHo, the Marimekkoshop-in-shop at Crate and Barrel featureskitchen textiles, bed and bath and otherinterior decoration products, plus bags,accessories and a representation of apparel.Marimekko and Crate and Barrel are alsoexploring further opportunities forcollaboration, including additional U.S.

Crate and Barrel was founded in Chicago in 1962. Working directly withEuropean ateliers and factories to import their products, Crate and Barrelwanted to make contemporary tabletopand kitchenware designs affordable to American consumers. In addition toits direct marketing division, the company operates stores in most majorNorth American markets, as well asfranchises in Dubai in partnership with Al Tayer Group. The Crate and Barrel family of brands includes CB2 and childrens’ home furnishings retailer,The Land of Nod.

understanding of the U.S. market and Marimekko’s unique design vision,which infuses color and joy into everydayproducts and lives.

Marimekko items range from furnishingfabrics to tableware as well as clothing,bags, jewelry and other accessories. When Marimekko, a Finnish company,was founded in 1951, the patterns andcolors of its printed fabrics gave it a strongand unique identity. Marimekko productsare available in roughly 40 countries.

Multi-channel home furnishings retailer

SOLIS NUVO MILL The Solis Nuvo Mill from William BoundsLtd. is a battery-operated salt or pepper mill. This sleek mill features acurved silhouette in black santopreneaccented with acrylic, giving the mill acontemporary look while being easyto hold. The Solis Nuvo Mill features one-handed operation. To select the desiredgrind from fine to coarse, simply turnthe adjustment wheel on the undersideof the mill. To dispense, push the buttonon top. Its fully adjustable ceramicmilling mechanism is durable and non-corrosive. The mill’s acrylic window addsto its visual appeal, but also serves as aindicator as to whether salt or pepperis housed inside, and when it needs tobe refilled. The mill is easily refilled bylifting the top off, removing the batterycompartment, and then pouring the ingredients to the clear base. Themill measures 7½" and requires six AAA batteries.Suggested Retail Price: $34.99

William Bounds Ltd.[tel] 800.473.0504www.wmboundsltd.com

Page 10: Kitchenware News v16i10

10 Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 www.kitchenwarenews.com

First of all, don’t let the name fool you.This apple cooker from Mastrad definitelycooks more than just apples. The namehas more to do with its apple-shapedappearance than what it actually cooks.For this month’s product review,Kitchenware News & Housewares Review

gave this fruit cooker from Mastrad a spin.

The fruit cooker, as previously mentioned,mimics the shape of an apple, and isavailable in green, red and black. It’s madeof silicone, a material that is terrific forwithstanding high temperatures. The fruitcooker can be used in the microwave oroven, and the care instructions state thecooker is dishwasher safe, but handwashing in warm, soapy water isrecommended for best results.

I’m a bit of a “just wing it” in the kitchentype, and decided to work without a recipe.I decided to start the fruit cooker reviewby preparing some classic baked apples. Ichopped the apple into pieces, tossed themwith some cinnamon and popped thecooker into the oven at 350 degrees. Ifyou wanted, the cooker could hold a wholeapple. Just a minor reminder, but you wantto check the placement of your oven racksbefore preheating the oven and attempting

to put the fruit cooker in. I didn’tremember to do that both times I testedthe cooker, and bumped the stem of theapple cooker against my top rack. It by nomeans harmed the product or its function,it was just a minor nuisance having tomove the top rack after the oven wasalready hot.

When placing the fruit cooker into theoven, I was concerned about its stability asI moved the rack, but the cookermaintained its balance. Also, while thecover to the fruit cooker, which is the tophalf of the apple, remained on, it alsoseemed slightly unstable. I wish it fit alittle more snugly to the bottom half of thecooker. In terms of material, I reallyenjoyed cooking with silicone, because it’sa lightweight material with a tolerance forhigh heat. The apples cooked for about20 minutes, and came out fork-tender, andthe cinnamon lightly caramelized theapples a dark golden brown. I was reallypleased with the color and tenderness ofthe cooked apples.

My second attempt at using the Mastradfruit cooker was to make a poached pear.I took a Bartlett pear, peeled it, and thencored it using the included corer from

Mastrad. Theplastic corer worked, butcould have been a little smoothergoing through the pear. The corerrequired more effort and elbow grease thana metal corer would. I placed the wholepear in the apple cooker, then added somewhite wine, vanilla extract and cinnamon.After I prepped my pear, I placed thecovered fruit cooker into a preheated ovenand let it cook for about 30 minutes.

While I would probably tweak my ownrecipe (fresh vanilla beans, a touch morecinnamon), the pear came out perfectlypoached. Tender, but not mushy, and thefruit maintained its color. The fruit cookeris also microwave safe, and can be used to

prepare more complicated desserts such asflans and compotes. My favorite aspect ofthe Mastrad fruit cooker is definitely itssize. I really like individually sized desserts.I think it makes for a nice presentationwhen entertaining, yet also functions wellwhen you’re only cooking for one or twopeople, and is also a good way to controlportion size.

The fruit cooker makes for a fun addition tothe kitchen, offering consumers a simple andcompact way to cook more fruit-based dishes.

by Carrie Bui

Product ReviewMastrad Apple Cooker

ASCENT 3 HAMMERED STANDAmerican Metalcraft’s Ascent 3 is alarge three-tier hammered stand thatmakes striking presentations at upscalebanquets and buffets. The creativedesign of this stand mixes smoothfinished stainless steel legs withhammered stainless steel tiers in agenerous 23" diameter by 20" tall format.Each of the three tiers is individuallyhammered so every tier is unique. Thesurface of these tiers provides a beautifulplatform to showcase appetizers,individual sides and desserts.

American Metalcraft[tel] 800.333.9133www.amnow.com

AmericasMart Takes on International Accent

to the U.S. market, the internationalparticipants not housed in permanentshowrooms secured temporary booth spacein the renowned Market Temporaries,spanning a combined total of more than20,000 square feet, according to a releasefrom AmericasMart.

Two of the European temporary companiescommitted to visual display excellence at

AmericasMart ’s position as a leadinginternational market center was reinforcedat the Atlanta International Gift & HomeFurnishings and International Area RugMarkets with the showcase of nearly 100 companies headquartered outside ofthe United States, representing more than20 countries.

Leveraging AmericasMart as the gateway

space in Atlanta to attract U.S. customers.In addition to the temporary collections,AmericasMart is an American home formore than 30 companies based across theglobe. They have committed to a permanentshowroom in one of AmericasMart’s fourbuildings and have the ability and facilitiesto do business in the U.S. year-round.

The number of companies that rely onAmericasMart to expand into the UnitedStates is expected to grow each Market,starting with the January 2011 AtlantaInternational Gift & Home Furnishings andAtlanta International Area Rug Markets.

market and were awarded the honor of Bestof Floor and Best of Show for outstandingvisual design showcasing product in anartistic and innovative display, includingcreative use of space, product display andplacement, signage, flooring and lighting.Chehoma, headquartered in Belgium, wasbestowed the highest honor of Best of Showand Ateliers C & S Davoy, based in France,was presented the Best of Floor in HomeFurnishings & Home Accents.

Ateliers and Chehoma are just two of themany companies outside of the UnitedStates taking advantage of the temporary

OLIVE BRANCH TRIPLE COMPARTMENT DISHDesigner Michael Aram tookhis inspiration from the olivebranch, a symbol of peaceand victory, for his OliveBranch Collection. Among the serving items available is the Olive Branch TripleCompartment Dish madeof oxidized bronze andstainless steel. This measures8.5" by 8" by 1.5".

Michael Aram Inc.[tel] 201.758.2551www.michaelaram.com

JOBI FISH POTTERYJobi Pottery’s latest pieces aredesigned not only for aestheticappeal, but each piece is alsofunctional and dishwasher safe.Plates, bowls, mugs and sushi plates

are handmade and hand-paintedusing the same methods the originalowners of Jobi created. The retro look of the shapes and Cape Cod-inspired designs can be traced back to Joe Colliano’s and BillHastings’ early work, but current

designer Susan Kurtzman has alsoadded new colors and motifs tocomplement the originals.

Jobi Pottery[tel] 508.349.2303www.jobipottery.com

Page 11: Kitchenware News v16i10

H o u s e w a r e s R e v i e w&KITCHENWARE NEWSS E R V I N G K I T C H E N W A R E , H O U S E W A R E S A N D T A B L E T O P M A R K E T S

VOLUME 16, NUMBER 10 OCTOBER 2010

smallelectrics

Page 12: Kitchenware News v16i10

12 Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 www.kitchenwarenews.com

small electrics

KITCHENAID PRO TOASTER COLLECTIONThis innovative toaster features an auto-sensingfunction that automatically lowers bread to begintoasting. An auto keep-warm function re-lowers thetoast to keep it warm if it has not been removed. Amid-cycle button allows the user to raise the toast andcheck on it, then lower it back down to continuecooking. Most models include a defrost button, andLCD displays show the selected toasting shade anda toasting progress bar. All models feature an extrawide slot for bagels, and a bagel button makes sureonly the interior of the bagel is toasted. A high liftlever minimizes the risk of burnt fingers by raising thetoast higher out of the slot. Available in contour silveror onyx black and 2-slice and 4-slice versions.Suggested Retail Prices: $159-199

KitchenAid[tel] 800.541.6390www.kitchenaid.com

CUISINART POWEREDGE BLENDERCuisinart’s new 1000-watt blender features a 64-ounce,BPA-free blender jar. The jar is made from a newgeneration copolyester that is lightweight and shatter-proof. The blender is equipped with auto pre-setprogramming and a backlit Count-Up timer. Pre-setprograms include Smoothie, Ice Crush and Pulse. Ameasured pour lid makes adding ingredients easy, acover with leak-proof gasket holds the lid in place anda cord compartment makes storage simpler. The pourlid and blender jar are dishwasher safe.

Cuisinart[tel] 800.211.9604www.cuisinart.com

JURA IMPRESSA Z7This one-touch coffee and espresso maker will helpserve up those after-dinner coffees. The machineproduces everything from latte macchiatos to cremacoffee and foamy hot chocolates with the touch abutton. The user can program the Impressa Z7 toproduce desired volume, strength and temperatureof the beverages. It automatically grinds beans, tampsand brews coffee, and steams or froths milk in less than60 seconds. The Impressa Z7 features a height-adjustable cappucino frother, height-adjustable dualcoffee spout and the spout also moves in and out, allto accommodate a wider variety of cups. Two stainlesssteel heating systems means there’s no downtimebetween brewing and frothing, and a 20-ouncethermal stainless steel milk container keeps milk coldand ready for frothing or steaming. There’s also a 96-ounce water tank.Suggested Retail Price: $2,999

Jura-Capresso[tel] 800.767.3554www.capresso.com

VIKING HAND MIXERThe Professional HandMixer from Viking isavailable in amanual switch anda digital switchversion. The manualswitch offers fivespeeds, and the digitalmodel features ninespeeds. An ergonomichandle design offers comfortto the user’s hand while mixing, and the250-watt motor mixes with ease. Thebeaters are made of heavy gaugestainless steel and are dishwasher safe.The mixer is available in a metallic silverand both models come with a three-year warranty.Suggested Retail Prices: $79.95-manual; $99.95-digital

Viking Range Corp.[tel] 888.845.4641www.vikingrange.com

WARING PRO IMMERSION BLENDERThis professional immersion hand blender from WaringPro is designed for efficient blending, from light mixingand puréeing to whipping and emulsifying. Use thetwo-speed blender with its hi/lo buttons to make saladdressings and soups. The hand blender has an easy-to-use, one-touch control for either continuous or pulseaction, and a contoured grip handle for ease of use.Suggested Retail Price: $39.99

Waring Pro[tel] 800.492.7464www.waringpro.com

ROASTED GARLIC EXPRESSThis garlic roaster from Hannon Group roasts garlic injust 27 minutes. Simply place the garlic cloves in theremovable roasting pan, cut side down, drizzle witholive oil, season with salt and press start to beginroasting. The nonstick roasting pan is dishwasher safe,and the roaster features an automatic shut-off.Available in white, terra cotta or stainless steel.Suggested Retail Prices: $34.99-white or terra cotta;$59.99-stainless steel

Hannon Group Ltd.[tel] 262.537.2191[email] [email protected]

Page 13: Kitchenware News v16i10

www.kitchenwarenews.com Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 13

small electrics

MIELE CVA 2650ST COFFEE SYSTEMThis Nespresso capsule coffee system features aremovable capsule carousel, 20 capsule coffeecapacity and five individual capsule chambers. Themachine is programmable to accommodate multipleuser preferences and also features four programmablecup sizes as well as automatic rinse and cleaningprograms. This system also includes a safety lock, multi-lingual LCD display, standby function and delaystart/stop function.Suggested Retail Price: $2,599

Miele[tel] 800.843.7231www.mieleusa.com

ELECTRONIC VERSATILITY COOKERThe 6-quart electronic versatility cooker by West Bendcan be used on the stove, in the oven or stored in thefreezer, and the heating base doubles as a light duty,nonstick griddle. The cooker features electronictemperature controls with a keep warm mode thatstays up to 24 hours. The cooking pot and lid aredishwasher safe.Suggested Retail Price: $69.99

West Bend[tel] 866.290.1851www.westbend.com

TRIBEST CITRISTARThe CitriStar features a 50-watt motor for quiet,powerful juicing. The stainless steel locking spoutprevents clogs and conveniently allows juice to pourdirectly into a glass permitting for continuousoperation. The spout is specially designed to lock inan upward position, preventing spills and drips. Themachine includes an easy-to-clean filter screen,adjustable cord length and under base cord storageand one-touch operation. The CitriStar weighs 8pounds and measures 6" in diameter and 9" high.Suggested Retail Price: $49.99

Tribest Corp.[tel] 888.254.7336www.tribest.com

FAGOR AMERICA ELECTRIC STEAMERThe three-tiered electric steamer from Fagor Americamakes it easy to create a complete and healthymeal. The steamer has a 10-quart capacity and threesteamer baskets, allowing users to steam up to threedifferent dishes at the same time. The individual basketshold up to 3.3 quarts of food, and the trays nesttogether for easy and compact storage. Included isa basket for rice. The steamer features digital touchcontrols, an LCD screen, water level indicator withautomatic shut-off and an automatic keep warmfunction. An external reservoir allows for water refillwhile the steamer is in operation. Suggested Retail Price: $69.99

Fagor America[tel] 800.207.0806www.fagoramerica.com

AGUAS FRESCAS BLENDERThis Hamilton Beach blender blends fresh fruits suchas mango, melon and pineapple, then strains thepulp and seeds with the in-jar strainer. The pulp andseeds stay in the jar as you pour the freshly madeaguas frescas. The blender can also be used as atraditional blender. The pitcher, strainer, lid and bladesare dishwasher safe. The Aguas Frescas blenderfeatures 10 speeds, a 56-ounce container, stainlesssteel blades and a three-year warranty.Suggested Retail Price: $29.99

Hamilton Beach[tel] 800.851.8900www.hamiltonbeach.com

TOASTESS MULTIPOT SLOW COOKERThis slow cooker prepares everything from pasta andfondue to cake and pudding. The Multipot featuresa programmable touch pad that selects cook timeand temperature. It can switch automatically to “keepwarm” once cooking is complete. The pot takes upless counter space, and is more energy efficient thana conventional kitchen stove. This digital slow cookeris available in a 5-quart size with stainless steel orblack plastic carrying handles.Suggested Retail Prices: $59.99-69.99

Toastess International[tel] 514.685.2820www.toastess.com

Page 14: Kitchenware News v16i10

14 Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 www.kitchenwarenews.com

Page 15: Kitchenware News v16i10

www.kitchenwarenews.com Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 15

controlled by women who make 85 percentof all purchasing decisions.

“You need to speak to women in everythingyou do,” said Burns, and this presentationis designed to help retailers do just that.

In 41 Madison’s lobby displays, House

Beautiful magazine is creating threetablescapes based on its Novemberentertaining issue. And Bridal Guide willbe sponsoring the Caffé, where Southern-style treats will be available.

Burns said visitors to 41 Madison’sshowrooms will also see plenty of newproducts and new color stories. Companiessuch as BIA Cordon Bleu and GibsonUSA traditionally launch new programsat the tabletop market, she said. Among allthe participants at 41 Madison, there willbe 500,000 square feet of viewable space.

Although a smaller player in the tabletopcategory, 230 Fifth Ave. is also gearing up

TABLETOP (cont. from p.1)Her optimism is based in part on theexpansion of showrooms like that of BIACordon Bleu, and the opening of two newspaces by companies from Denmark andAustralia. “That shows a bit of confidencein the market,” said Burns of the newinternational presence. “They have puttheir faith into this market.”

Su Hilty, Vice President of Marketing at7 W New York, is also “excited about themarket,” she said, and noted both RedVanilla and ARC International have takennew suites. Although the details were stillbeing worked out at press time, Hilty saidmany showrooms are planning eventsduring the week.

Within the building, color is the themeand the focus is on “the widening range ofhome entertaining products in the tabletop,linen and decorative accessories categories.”

The lobby display at 7 West is styled byNancy Alusick, who is creating vignetteswith an emphasis on color and its impacton cuisine and tabletop settings. Alusick istaking her cue from Pantone and its fourtop-trending color palettes for four color-focused vignettes using products from thebuilding’s showrooms.

Other color-oriented offerings with 7 Westinclude complimentary orange juice ormimosas from 10 a.m. to noon in the lobby’sAntique Café; a complimentary buyers’ lunchoffering fresh, green fare; and a “Paint theTown Red” cocktail celebration on Oct. 12in the lobby, featuring drinks and appetizers.

On the educational side, 41 Madison isoffering a seminar from 8:30 to 9:15 a.m.Oct. 13 titled, “New Womenomics: WhatWomen Want & How to Reach Them.”Conducted by Daily Candy Editor-at-Large Dannielle Kyrillos, the seminar willexplore the consumer landscape that is

for the week, said Matthew Aloisi, thebuilding’s new Creative MarketingDirector. “Tabletop will be smaller, butjust as good” as the Home Fashions Marketthat took place in September, he said.Showrooms were planning promotionalgiveaways at press time, he said, and thebuilding was working on revamping itsbuyers’ lounge.

While buyers often limit themselves totime spent moving among the buildings’showrooms, Burns advised them to takesome time to seeing New York. “Theyshould spend time shopping the greatretailers and viewing the windows forinspiration,” she said. The city’s museumsand parks are also great sources for ideas:“You should take inspiration fromeverything New York has,” she suggested.

The idea of these buying trips, she said, is tonot only find great merchandise, but also tofind ideas and tips that can be taken back tothe store and used to educate the consumer.

Meetings such as this one in the Arthur Court showroom are common during Tabletop Market Week.

PFALTZGRAFF FONDUE SETFondue has increased in popularitybecause it is fun, easy to make andencourages a lively, sociable gatheringof friends and family. This set, inwinterberry, includes a round fonduepot, matching lid, color-coded forks andstainless steel rack, all accompaniedby four matching tidbit dishes withthumbprint handles for your individualfondue creations. The set nests forconvenient storage. Suggested Retail Price: $29.99

Pfaltzgraff[tel] 800.999.2811www.pfaltzgraff.com

PERLA RECYCLED GLASS BOWL AND SERVING SETArthur Court’s Perla bowl and servingset are made of recycled glass andpart of a new collection to beintroduced at this month’s NY TabletopShow. The beaded rim and end of theservers are made of aluminum, and thewood is acacia. The collection consistsof bowl, serving set, chip and dip, wine

caddy and three-section server. Seethe Arthur Court showroom on the thirdfloor at the Tabletop Show. The Perlaitems will be available in January 2011.Suggested Retail Prices: $120-bowl; $39-two-piece serving set

Arthur Court Designs[tel] 800.446.7806www.arthurcourt.com

Page 16: Kitchenware News v16i10

16 Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 www.kitchenwarenews.com

ISSI SMALL TUMBLERSA tulip-shaped rim plays on the S-curvecommon to all the elements in the Issiseries. Made of mouth-blown, non-leadcrystal, the 8-ounce tumblers measure2.5" high by 3" in diameter. The glasseswere designed by Peter Nolan of NewYork and crafted at RogaskaGlassworks, Slovenia.Suggested Retail Price: $88-set of four

Teroforma[tel] 877.899.1190www.teroforma.com

DESIGN HOUSE STOCKHOLM TIMO GLASSWAREDesign House Stockholm’s Timo glasseshold 10 ounces and come in a four-pack. The glass is sculpted rather thandrawn and blown, and it is double-walled to help regulate temperature.Suggested Retail Price: $32-set of four

Design House Stockholm[tel] 262.884.0226www.designhousestockholm.com

MULTI-DOT MARTINI GLASSESDetroit Glass Co.’s 7" Multi-Dot Martiniglass holds 7.25 ounces and comes ina variety of colors. Suggested Retail Price: $16 each

Detroit Glass Co.[tel] 313.881.4893www.detroitglasscompany.com

HUNNIES & HOTTIES GLASSWAREEpic Products introduces the Hunnies& Hotties hand-painted glasswarecollection. These detailed glassesfeature Wine & Spirits Girls with cleversayings, making these glasses theperfect hostess gift or girls’ night out partyware. They are available inchampagne, wine, martini and pilsner styles.Suggested Retail Prices: $22.95-24.95

Epic Products[tel] 800.548.9791[email] [email protected]

DANSK HANNA GLASSWAREDesigned by Danish designer NielsRefsgaard in 1993 and named after hiswife, Hanne, the Hanna line features a16-ounce goblet, 16.5-ounce icedbeverage and an 8-ounce wine glass.The Hanna line was inspired by the

everyday casual glassware made inDenmark more than 100 years ago.Suggested Retail Price: $12

Dansk[tel] 800.326.7528www.dansk.com

glassware

LOVE BARWARE AND STEMWAREThe LOVE barware and stemware lineis made in Germany and is the newestglassware collection for Ten StrawberryStreet. Available in a 13.6-ounce wineglass, 18-ounce cooler and 14-ouncedouble old-fashioned, the glasses area perfect addition to any table.

Available in onyx, ruby and sapphirecolors, it is a great way to give thetable a little color.Suggested Retail Prices: $9.99-14.99

Ten Strawberry Street[tel] 800.428.9397www.tenstrawberrystreet.com

B U Y E R S ’ G U I D E

PICARDIE TUMBLERSPicardie tumblers are the original Frenchdrinking glasses that have been used toserve wine, coffee and cocktails inFrench dining establishments fordecades. Picardie tumblers arestackable. The fluted shape fits in thehand easily and the shape gentlytapers outward so it is delicate on thelip. The tempered glass is extremelytough and durable and with care, canlast for decades without breaking orchipping. The tumblers are dishwashersafe and available in eight sizes rangingfrom 3.25 ounces to nearly 17 ounces.Suggested Retail Prices: $2.50-5

Duralex[tel] 302.326.4804www.duralexusa.com

Page 17: Kitchenware News v16i10

www.kitchenwarenews.com Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 17

CÔTÉ BASTIDE TOSCANA GLASSESToscana stemmed glasses from Franceare inspired from products found in Italy.They stand about 8" tall and have adiameter of approximately 3".Suggested Retail Price: $54 each

Côté Bastide/U.S. Agent Julie Alverson[tel] 312.618.6830www.cotebastide.com

CELEBRATIONS NOVELTY HAND-PAINTED GLASSES The Celebrations by Mikasa Hand-Painted Stemware Collection featuresa full range of fun and giftablehandcrafted 15-ounce wine glassesand 21-ounce pilsner glasses for everyoccasion. Each unique design iscarefully hand-painted and thenpackaged in a special “Celebrationsby Mikasa” gift box, making thesegreat for on-the-go, one-of-a-kindgifts. With a full array of holiday andall-occasion glasses, the whole seriescan be collected for a uniqueentertaining statement or used athome for a colorful decorative look.Suggested Retail Prices: $14.99-19.99

Mikasa, manufactured by Lifetime Brands Inc.[tel] 866.645.2721www.mikasa.com

ZRIKE DOT GLASSWAREZrike’s Dot Glassware is available inamber, clear and green in 16-ouncegoblets, 16-ounce tumblers and 12-ounce juice glasses. The glassware ismade in China.Suggested Retail Prices: $7-8

The Zrike Co. Inc.[tel] 201.651.5158www.zrike.com

TEMPO MUG SETTea sales continue to grow in bothCanada and the United States, whilecoffee remains a staple beveragearound the world. The Tempo Mugfrom Libbey coordinates with theTempo dinnerware, and the four-piece gift carton makes it ideal for a housewarming present or animpulse purchase.Suggested Retail Price: $12.99-set of four

Libbey Inc.[tel] 419.325.2100www.libbey.com

Page 18: Kitchenware News v16i10

18 Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 www.kitchenwarenews.com

STOLZLE FLAME GLASSWAREThe gentle curved shape of themachine-made Flame line from Stolzleinspires oenophiles and wine buffs whodemand glasses with a high wineperformance and design that exceedsgeneral functionality. These gracefulglasses are produced with the drawnstem process in which the stem is

directly pulled out of the bowl. The resultis machine-made glasses but withoutany joints or seam lines. The line includesBordeaux, red wine, white wine andflute Champagne sizes.

Stolzle-USA[tel] 877.786.5953www.stolzle-usa.com

MIKASA AVENUE STEMWARE PAIRSRegal and classically beautiful, theMikasa Avenue Stemware Pairs are theperfect addition to the Avenue GiftwareCollection. Featuring elegant cuts inbrilliant crystal, the 7-ounce ToastingFlute Pair and the 11-ounce Goblet Pairare packaged in a gift box.Suggested Retail Price: $39.99

Mikasa, manufactured by Lifetime Brands Inc.[tel] 866.645.2721www.mikasa.com

glasswareB U Y E R S ’ G U I D E

AMENITIES RINGSGenerous capacity, extra heavy shams and trend-forward styling are the benchmarks finer restaurants andbars pride themselves on whenselecting cocktail glasses andwhich Luminarc brings to thehome bar with its exclusiveAmenities Collection. Suggested Retail Price: $19.99

ARC International N.A.[tel] 800.257.7470www.luminarc.org

Six Showrooms Debut in Time for Tabletop Market

“Forty One Madison is the only locationthat could provide us with the support andspace for The Portmeirion Group tocontinue expansion plans that are pinnedupon our largest worldwide market, theUSA,” said Bryan. “We are planningaggressive growth for the next few years aswe capitalize on the Spode and RoyalWorcester acquisition. The retailers ofAmerica recognize 41 Madison as the centerof the wholesale industry, and so do we.”

Also presenting its introductions in largerquarters will be BIA Cordon Bleu on thethird floor. According to Owner PaulBaughman, the company is doubling thespace for its housewares line. The larger3,000-square-foot showroom will incorporatethe addition of two distinctive brands—Hathaway Road, whose signature is a moretraditional, countrified kind of look, andBalvery Designs, which represents the otherend of the design spectrum with a hipper andmore urban attitude.

For BIA, it’s been an ongoing year ofexpansion because the company also recentlyenlarged the adjacent showroom it occupiesto separately house prestige French tablewarebrands Phillippe Deshoulieres, Capdeco andRoyal Limoges. Look for the addition there

Six new permanent showrooms will beopening their doors for The New YorkTabletop Show Oct. 12 to 15. The latestlineup comes on the heels of nine springmarket additions, and is an indicator, saidLaurie Burns, 41 Madison’s Senior VicePresident and Director, in preparedremarks, “of the industry’s remarkableresilience, renewed vitality and an ever-widening global field of players.” Amongthe newcomers to the world’s unrivaledhub of tabletop are brands from Australia,Denmark and Turkey.

Portmeirion, the venerable British-basedbrand and a longtime 41 Madison anchor, isrelocating to the 19th floor. It is a move into9,000 square feet that represents a 50 percentincrease over its previous showroom, and itwas precipitated largely by the recentacquisition of Royal Worcester and Spode,plus its representation of Pimpernel. Unitingthese brands under one roof has created apowerhouse of products that are steeped intradition and iconic in stature. But it alsocreated, according to Lawrence Bryan, ChiefExecutive and President of Portmeirion in theUnited States, the challenge to find suitablequarters for the extensive assortment andrange. That was easily answered by lookingno further than a few floors below.

of Apilco, said Baughman.

ARDA Glassware from Turkey is making itsdebut and planting its North American rootsat 41 Madison on the 15th floor with a 1,000-square-foot showroom. The company’sdecorative glass plates and other tableware,accessories and gifts reflect a modern aestheticyet also a respect and reverence for the artistryof ancient glassmaking.

On the 7th floor, Salt & Pepper arrivesfrom Australia bringing contemporarylifestyle designs that you can cook with, eatwith and decorate with. Certain to stirquite a buzz, much like it has in all of itsworldwide showings, this emergingindustry star is being distributed in NorthAmerica by Barmann LLC, a joint venturebetween Canada’s Albert Mann Marketingand Australia’s Bambis. Each company hasmore than 40 years experience in homeproducts. According to Harry Pourounidis,President of Bambis, “41 Madison is a goodfit with Salt & Pepper’s brand personalityand aspirations. We’ve been made to feelwe’re more than welcome at Forty One andthat we are an important part of a vibranthousewares community.”

Stelton is establishing a U.S. beachhead at41 Madison on the 16th floor with a 1,100-square-foot showroom opening. One ofDenmark’s great design brands ofkitchenware and housewares, Stelton isprobably best known for its classic, sleek and

colorful vacuum thermal carafe. But, there’sway more to its offering, including therecent introduction of a new collection withfashion designer Paul Smith. “We see 41Madison as a good platform for our marketstrategy for Stelton, as we reach out to high-end tabletop and gift retailers in the U.S.and Canada,” said Christian Ernemann,the company’s Export Director.

Industry veteran Jerry Nardone is hanging upa shingle on the 19th floor with the openingof JMC Global, specializing in flatware. Informing his new venture, Nardone will beoffering licensed designs from, among others,Portmeirion and Jayden, plus private label.

Additionally, Burns reported that eightcompanies renewed their leases, accountingfor another 14,000 square feet. This groupincluded Gourmet Settings, Homer LaughlinChina Co., Lifetime Brands, Over and BackInc., Riedel Crystal, Royal Bohemia Crystal,Ten Strawberry Street and Waechtersbach.

“These additions, expansions and renewals—coupled with the fact that several of our major41 Madison vendors will be introducingsignificant new collections—can only beconstrued as a positive sign and are atestament to the fact that 41 Madison is thecenter of this great industry,” said Burns.“We’re looking forward to hosting a FallTabletop Market that will be filled withimpressive merchandise options for seriousbuyers from all corners of the world.”

Page 19: Kitchenware News v16i10

Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 19

short-handled ladlesare in high demandby at-home canners.Customers at The

Biggest Little KitchenStore are asking for the stainless steelcanning pot withcanning rack fromR.S.V.P. International,said Williams, as well asR.S.V.P.’s nylon foodmills with fine strainer,sieve and grater. “Thefood mill is really

important if you’recanning,” she added.

And alongside the larger back-to-basicsproducts, customers are also looking forcomplementary gadgets including cherrypitters, strawberry hullers and mandolines.Lapiana said mandolines are a high seller,and she attributes that to the do-it-yourselftrend. Its multiple capabilities—slicing,grating, julienning—offers people differentways to use all of their vegetables.

Making homemade jams and jellies iseasier with the help of items such as cherrypitters, strawberry hullers and apple corers.Junkhan said she increased her order ofcherry pitters from last year, but still ranout. The store also carries and sells morestrawberry hullers than ever before.

Williams said new gadgets arrive all the time,and many of those products have made at-home canning and pickling easier and moreefficient. “One new product we’ve had thisyear that people are buying like crazy is theGarlic Zoom (by Chef ’n),” she said. Peopleadding fresh garlic to their pickled vegetablescan use the rolling garlic chopper to speedchopping. Other popular items include theTrudeau Pot Clip, lemon and lime juicers,bean slicers and collapsible silicone funnels.

In addition to canning supplies, retailersalso commented on the overwhelmingpopularity of food dehydrators. “Withproduce coming, they started dehydratingthings,” said Lapiana, whose store had arun for dehydrators in the months of Juneand July. She also mentioned she’s noticedincreased interest in pasta making, andsubsequently, tomato strainers forhomemade sauce.

The increased interest in preparing morefood items at home has also led to thepopularity of cooking classes and

BACK-TO-BASICS (cont. from p.1)Retailers have caught on to theoverwhelming popularity of back-to-basicsproducts, items designed to help consumerscan and pickle their produce and maketheir own jams, jellies, sausages and pasta.With the increased interest in preparingfood items at home, retailers areresponding by increasing orders of do-it-yourself products and complementarygadgets, as well as offering more cookingclasses and demonstrations.

According to KC Lapiana, Owner of InThe Kitchen in Pittsburgh, customers ather store are doing a lot of canning andmaking homemade sausage. She saidcanning products used to only sell in thefall, but now she’s able to sell canningproducts from March to early November.“As far as canning goes, I think people arefinding it No. 1, easy to do and No. 2,they’re saving on their grocery bills,” shesaid. She attributes the popularity ofhomemade sausage to her locale.

“Mainly with the economy, people areproducing their own gardens andeffectively preserving everything thatcomes out of them,” said Janie Williams,Owner of The Biggest Little Kitchen Storein Jackson, Calif. “It’s a matter of money.Most everything that comes out of agarden you can can or freeze; you just haveto know how.”

And sales indicate people are definitelylearning how. Lapiana said the sales ofcanning supplies are “through the roof ” ather store. Products such as canning pots,pressure cookers, lid lifters, funnels and

demonstrations that focus on canning,pickling, infused oils and more. In TheKitchen offers weekly demonstrations, andhas already offered demos on pickling andpasta making.

At The Biggest Little Kitchen Store,there’s an extensive wait list to attend oneof the store’s canning demonstrations orclasses. In the meantime, those looking to learn a little more about preparinghomemade food items are picking up plenty of do-it-yourself cookbooks.Williams said she’s selling anything aboutpickling and garden-fresh produce, as wellas quite a few books related to homepreserves and homemade pasta.

Michele Hansen, Owner of Misc.Essentials, A Kitchen Shop in Hawley,Pa., shares plenty of home cooking andgardening techniques through herinteractive cooking classes. Though hershop is in a vacation resort area and doesnot serve many do-it-yourselfers, she said,her cooking classes are very popular.Hansen often organizes private cookingclasses for small groups at her store, too.Many of the classes focus on fresh produce,and she frequently brings in plants, rootsstill attached, from her own garden. Shesaid she displays the plant in a vase so thather customers can see how simple it can beto grow your own vegetables in deck pots.“People are less intimidated when they cansee where it came from,” she said.

One of the shop’s most popular classes isthe infused oils class, when Hansen teachescustomers how to infuse oils and salts usingfresh herbs. “When you’re making ityourself, you know what’s in it, you’ve seeneverything and touched everything that’sgoing into this bottle,” she said. Hansenbelieves the interactive classes create moreinterest in being self-sufficient and creatingmore food items from scratch. Theseclasses encourage more sales of do-it-yourself kitchen tools, such as cheesecloth,strainers and stockpots, said Hansen.

And as people produce more do-it-yourselffood products at home, such as jams, jelliesand infused oils, they’re discovering the artof the homemade gift. Retailers commentedthat in addition to supplies, they’re sellinga number of decorative bottles, jars andlabels. Williams said she sells hundreds ofvinegar and oil cruets during the canningseason, and customers come in oftenseeking decorative labels and jars. “It’s a giftyou can give for under $5,” she added.

TAG PLACEMAT & NAPKINTag’s Merry Moose placemat andwhimsy dot napkin are designed toset a cheery mood this holidayseason. The green placemat is 100percent cotton with an appliquédembroidered moose design andrickrack detail. The print napkin is also100 percent cotton, with greenrickrack trim.Suggested Retail Prices: $9.99-placemat; $5-napkin

TAG (Trade Associates Group)[tel] 800.621.8350 www.tagltd.com

Page 20: Kitchenware News v16i10

20 Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 www.kitchenwarenews.com

ZAK CONFETTI CUPCAKE TRAYSThese cupcake trays from Zak Designsare both fun and functional as they holdand display holiday cupcakes. Designedto resemble a large cupcake, the trayis available in orange, white or magentaand topped with Zak’s signature confetticoloring. The tray is made from recycledmelamine, and balanced spacingensures each cupcake has plenty ofspace and stays in place. The trays holda dozen cupcakes.Suggested Retail Price: $19.99

Zak Designs[tel] 800.331.1089 www.zak.com

SORRENTO PLATESSignature Housewares’ 6" stonewareplates are microwave and dishwashersafe and lead-free. A metal servingcaddy offers a convenient displayand storage option. Colors are ruby,ivory, wheat, sage green, burgundyand chocolate brown.Suggested Retail Price: $19.99

Signature Housewares[tel] 805.484.6666www.sighouse.com

PORCELAIN APPETIZER SPOONThis 5" porcelain spoon is ideal forserving amuse-bouche—a Frenchterm that refers to a single, bite-sizehors d’oeuvre—a “mouth amuser.” Thewhite porcelain is dishwasher safe. Suggested Retail Price: $2

R.S.V.P. International[tel] 800.275.7787www.rsvp-intl.com

GREEN STREET KITCHEN UTENSILSRobinson Home Products introducesGreen Street, kitchen utensilsmanufactured from recycled waterbottles. The turners and spoons comein a vibrant green, with two of thetools showcasing decorative slots inthe shape of tree branches. EachGreen Street tool is made fromapproximately two to three recycledPET water bottles. The Green StreetSolid Spoon/Patterned Spoonfeatures a classically shaped designfor stirring and transferring cookedfood. The decorative slots allow forquick draining of liquids and fats. TheSmall Turner and Large PatternedTurner have flat heads that slide easilyeven under delicate foods, keepingthem intact. The decorative slots allowdrippings to drain and prevent foodsfrom sticking to its surface. Both turnershave a perforated edge that can beused for cutting. All four tools havelong, ergonomically designed handleswith a shallow channel for acomfortable, secure grip. Theproducts are made in the UnitedStates with recycled, FDA-approvedmaterial, are dishwasher safe andheat resistant to 425°F. The tools arepackaged in recyclable displayers.Suggested Retail Price: $3.99 each

Robinson Home Products[tel] 800.245.2433www.robinsonus.com

{ n e w p r o d u c t s }

Page 21: Kitchenware News v16i10

www.kitchenwarenews.com Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 21

VINTURI DELUXE AERATOR SET & TOWERThe seven-piece aerator set includesthe Vinturi Red Wine Aerator, tower arm,tower base, no-splash grate, sedimentfilter, no-drip stand and a travel pouch.The aerator draws in and mixes theproper amount of air for the wine to beserved at its best. The curved acrylictower holds the aerator at the idealheight to pour red wine through it andinto the glass.Suggested Retail Prices: $69.95-aerator set; $39.95-tower

Vinturi[tel] 877.846.8874www.vinturi.com

BAMBOO SALAD BOWL AND SALAD HANDSThirstystone Resources Inc., as part of itsnew collection of bamboo serveware,offers a bamboo salad bowl and saladhands. Pewter handle accents makethe salad hands easy to use, andmatch the engraved bowl detail instyles including fleur de lis, crown,wine/food/friends and five others. Thesalad hands measure 9" by 4", whilethe bowl is 12" around by 5" high.Acrylic-topped kraft packaging makesretail displays easy to do.Suggested Retail Prices: $20-35

Thirstystone Resources Inc.[tel] 800.829.6888www.thirstystone.com

AMCO HOUSEWORKS’SPOON RESTSAmco Houseworks introduces newspoon rests. These tools are whimsicaland yet functional and come in avariety of fun shapes, including the ChiliPepper, Stiletto, Wine Bottle andEggplant. The Chili Pepper andEggplant, which are currently available,are made of hand-painted ceramic,while the Wine Bottle Spoon Rest isstainless steel. The Stiletto design will beavailable in November.Suggested Retail Prices: $10-15

Amco Houseworks/Focus Products Group[tel] 877.310.9102www.focuspg.com

{ n e w p r o d u c t s }

Page 22: Kitchenware News v16i10

22 Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 www.kitchenwarenews.com

AmericasMart Atlanta ..................................... 24

B.I.A. Cordon Bleu Inc. .................................. 23

The Companion Group .................................... 5

Core Bamboo....................................................... 6

Essenergy ............................................................ 14

Fire Wire ............................................................... 6

Frieling USA Inc.................................................. 4

fusionbrands ...................................................... 22

George Little Management............................... 2

Lamson & Goodnow ....................................... 14

Parrish’s Cake Dec............................................... 9

Pragotrade Inc. .................................................. 19

Prodyne ................................................................. 7

Reco International Corp. ................................14

Sante Cookware ................................................ 21

SCI Scandicrafts ............................................... 15

Tervis Tumbler Company ............................... 17

Tribest ................................................................. 20

ADVERTISER INDEX

{ n e w s i n b r i e f }Old Time Pottery Inc. emerged fromChapter 11 reorganization in August, oneyear after filing for bankruptcy in U.S.Bankruptcy Court for the Middle Districtof Tennessee. “We entered Chapter 11 onAug. 21, 2009, and with the hard work ofour corporate staff, the support of ourvendors and the loyalty of our customers,we have been able to work our way throughthis process successfully,” said RobertSharp, Chief Operating Officer, in aprepared statement. “We have a solidbusiness and a respected reputation in theretail industry that, along with a very loyalcustomer base, played a huge role in ouremergence from Chapter 11,” addedPresident and Chief Executive OfficerScott Peterson. Old Time Pottery, based inMurfreesboro, Tenn., operates 30 stores inAlabama, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Florida,North Carolina, South Carolina, Missouri,Georgia and Tennessee. The warehouse-style stores feature housewares, linens,floral, seasonal and home décor items.

Based on a substantial growth in sales,

Cleveland-based Vitamix announced a33,000-square-foot increase in its shipping,manufacturing and warehouse facilities,and 7,000 square feet of additional officespace. The expansion includes additionalproduction lines, a new shipping area, anexpanded warehouse and additional officesfor new employees, and representsVitamix’s commitment to meet the needsof the company’s global growth because of

a tremendous increase in consumer andretailer demand. The entire project will becompleted by December. “As a company, weare experiencing more than 40 percentgrowth year-to-date vs. 2009, said DanKoch, Vitamix’s National Sales Manager,in prepared remarks. “We do not feel thisis just a spike in sales, but a sustainedgrowth pattern based on consumer demand.Because of the strong word-of-mouthappeal of our brand, the increasedawareness of eating healthy and our strongpositioning as the leading brand usedcommercially, this growth trend willcontinue,” he said. Additionally, Vitamixannounced it has renewed its licenseeprogram with The Culinary Institute ofAmerica for its line of CIA-brandedprofessional blending equipment for theconsumer market. “We are proud of thispartnership. It reinforces our position as thepreferred brand of The Culinary Instituteof America, and the professional blendingequipment category leader for both chefsand home cooking enthusiasts,” said Koch.

Dallas Market Center and the AccessoriesResource Team (ART) announced thefinalists for the 22nd Annual ARTs Awards.The ARTs awards will be presented at agala on Jan. 22 in the Grand Pavilion at theTrade Mart. Finalists will submit a detailedportfolio to a panel of judges. Categoriesjudged include accent furniture, area rugs,decorative accessories, home textiles, lightingfixtures, outdoor living, permanent floral,

portable lamps and wall décor. Finalists inthe home textiles category are: db Sources,Etoffe Makara and Mario and Marielena.Tabletop finalists are: Abigails, Juliska andVietri Inc. New this year is the GreenAward, which will be judged by Susan Inglis,Executive Director of The SustainableFurnishings Council. There are sevenfinalists in the green manufacturer category.Also to be honored are sales representatives,product designers, international retailers,rising star retailers, furniture stores, homeaccent stores and lighting showrooms.

Gracious Home, a New York retailer, filedfor Chapter 11 of the U.S. BankruptcyCode as part of a pre-arrangedreorganization plan. The Weck Corp,which operates as Gracious Home, enteredinto an agreement with a new investor,GH Acquisition LLC, an affiliate ofMeridian Ventures LLC, on the terms ofa reorganization plan that will allow for the restructuring of the company’scapitalization. The company also enteredinto an agreement with NewAllianceCommercial Finance, which will beproviding debtor-in-possession financing.“We want to assure our customers, ouremployees, our suppliers and ourcommunity that Gracious Home isoperating—business as usual,” said JordanSmilowitz, President and Chief OperatingOfficer, in a prepared statement. GraciousHome anticipates no disruption in day-to-day activities as the company positions

itself to obtain court confirmation of itsreorganization plan. Launched as ahardware and housewares store in 1963,today Gracious Home stocks a variety ofgoods, ranging from hardware supplies tokitchenware to linens to home décor itemsat three Manhattan locations: East Side,West Side and Chelsea. The company alsooperates a web-based business underGraciousHome.com.

Social media marketing company

uSocial.net recently began selling fansand friends on Facebook to businesses andorganizations wanting to increase theirexposure online. The service is based onthe principle that people use the site formarketing purposes and the more fans orfriends one has on Facebook, the larger thepotential client base. uSocial’s servicefacilitates the delivery, or sale, of theseconnections to a Facebook profile. “Wedesigned the new service around the factthat there were thousands of businessesout there searching for information onhow to get a larger fan base on Facebook,”said uSocial.net’s 25-year-old CEO andFounder Leon Hill in a prepared release.“Our new service now gives just about anybusiness or wannabe celebrity the abilityto attract the kind of status and popularityvery few achieve.” The company sellspackages of fans starting at $197 for 1,000,which they say are all real people and canbe targeted to whatever industry thecustomer’s business is in.

Page 23: Kitchenware News v16i10

www.kitchenwarenews.com Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • OCTOBER 2010 23

Trade Show Buzz{ t r a d e s h o w b u z z }

2010/11 TRADE SHOW CALENDAROCTOBER 2010

10-13 ABC Kids ExpoLas Vegas Convention CenterLas Vegas, NV, 210.691.4848

www.theabcshow.com

12-15 New York Tabletop MarketNew York Showrooms, 41 Madison

7 West 34th, 230 Fifth Ave.New York, NY, 212.686.1203212.279.6063 800.698.5617

www.41madison.com, www.7wnewyork.comwww.230fifthave.com

JANUARY 2011

8-11 Philadelphia Gift ShowGreater Philadelphia Expo Center

Oaks, PA, 678.285.3976www.urban-expo.com

9-12 National Retail Federation 100th Annual Convention & ExpoJacob K. Javits Convention Center

New York, NY, 202.626.8154www.nrf.com

12-15 HeimtextilFrankfurt Fair & Exhibition CenterFrankfurt, Germany, 770.984.8016

www.heimtextil.de

12-19 Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market

AmericasMart AtlantaAtlanta, GA, 800.ATL.MART

www.Americasmart.com

for Life, the gift, stationery and home décorindustries’ sole charitable organization, wasthe beneficiary of Tabletop by Design, acelebration of all things tabletop and homeentertaining. Eleven PMC permanentshowrooms designed tabletop displays thatwere on view daily during the show. Buyerswere invited to vote on their favorite designsand make a donation to Gift For Life, withall proceeds benefiting DIFFA: DesignIndustries Foundation Fighting AIDS.

It’s been a busy few months for trade showsand the buzz is continuing as we head intothe more chilly months of fall.

As the weather cools down, the competition isheating up...at least, when it comes to coffee.At the Canadian Coffee and Tea CocktailCompetition, held Sept. 27 in Toronto, baristas,bartenders and coffee or tea enthusiastsattempted to craft the perfect drink in front ofa panel of four expert judges for their chanceto win bragging rights and a $500 cash prize.

Coffee lovers and kitchenware store ownerswith cafés and coffee corners also are headingto Seattle Oct. 29-31 for Coffee Fest, nowcelebrating its 59th show. With nine separateclassrooms, Coffee Fest will feature a strongemphasis on education, including trainingsessions that range in topic from “How toOpen a Coffee Shop on a Tight Budget” to “How to Compete with a National Chain like McDonald’s or Starbucks.” Theshow will also feature a World Latte Art Championship and single-cup brewingand extraction workshops, among a variety ofother workshops and competitions.

Looking a bit into the future, companies shouldtake note of the 2011 International Home +Housewares Show in Chicago March 6-8. A new category named “Discover Design” willbe added to the show and exhibitors will beplaced in this category if they show inspireddesign, quality, brand positioning, outstandingcraftsmanship, exclusive market focus, retailerand consumer favorites and design-focusedsustainable product, said Phil Brandl, Presidentof the International Housewares Association,in a prepared statement.

“Discover Design was developed based onretailer feedback and will comprise thosecompanies retailers would like to see at theshow,” Brandl said. “It will add an excitingnew element to the show.”

The new category will be housed in the Tabletop,Kitchen Essentials + Accents section in theDine + Design Expo in the South Building.

Specialize in natural products for your specialtyfoods section? Make sure to check out theNatural Products Expo East in Boston, Oct.13-16. The show will feature specials for buyersand personalized matchmaking to help showparticipants find exactly what they need.

“Gourmet and specialty stores looking to appealto a more health- and environment-consciousconsumer have a tremendous opportunity innatural products,” said Erica Stone, ShowManager, in a prepared statement. “A series ofunprecedented incentives for both manufacturersand buyers creates an innovative trade show(buying) environment with discounts not offeredat any other event, be it in-person or online.”

At the Summer Gift and Home AccessoriesShow at Seattle’s Pacific Market Center, Gift

by Kelly Lewis

A monthly update on the goings-on at industry-related shows