BY THERESA GRANT

Whimsical, yet multi-purposed andpractical, is the latest trend in tabletoppieces, designers and manufacturers say.Bold colors continue to be popular, withmore neutrals, blacks and grays enteringthe serveware tablescape. The move towardnatural fibers and sustainably producedproducts continues, and metallic accents insilver and gold are beginning to emerge.

Whimsy is definitely the theme of Arbiter’sLegnomagia line, which features animalshapes that are “fun, simple and decorative,

Trending upward since its 2009acquisition by Urban Expositions,attendance at the February 2012 editionof the San Francisco International GiftFair at Moscone Center reached itshighest level to date under the newmanagement team. Exhibitor reports ofsteady order-writing and new accounts,coupled with buyer feedback on theexpanded selection, new resources andoverall show upgrades, created anoptimistic, upbeat atmosphere on theshow floor.

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

Attendance Increase, Brisk Order-Writing Headline Winter 2012 SFIGF

Continued on Page 12

SPECIAL FEATURE:TABLETOPSEE PAGE 11-14

BUYERS GUIDE:METALWARESEE PAGE 20

Continued on Page 17

Continued on Page 19

GIFTWARE:TEA TIMESEE PAGE 21-22

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

S E RV I N G K I T CH ENWA R E , HOU S EWA R E S AND TA B L E TO P MA R K E T S

Urban Expositions acquired the SanFrancisco International Gift Fair fromdmg world media in 2009, with theownership transition taking placeimmediately following the August 2009edition of the semi-annual show.

“We’ve focused tremendous effort onrebuilding and enhancing the SanFrancisco show and it’s rewarding to seethe steady progress,” says Doug Miller,

BY A.J. FLICK

More than 2,100 exhibitors from 125countries arrived at the sold-out, newlyexpanded, four-day 2012 InternationalHome + Housewares Show in Chicago,500 of the exhibitors making their debutbefore more than 60,000 attendees.

To meet the demand for space from first-time companies, the InternationalHousewares Association created a NewExhibitor Area. Newcomers includedsuch high-profile companies as Dyson,

Chicago Housewares Show PackedWith New Lines, Newcomers

Tabletop Lines Reflect Trend TowardWhimsical Yet Versatile Pieces

Neato Robotics, L’Atelier Du Vin,Robinson Home Products and VanderbiltHome Collections.

“The sold-out status is continued evidencethat the housewares and home goodssegment is standing up well in the face ofour current economic situation,” said PhilBrandt, IHA President.

The show coincided with the one-year

but also serve a purpose,” said Robin Lynch,Co-Owner of the Arbiter Collection(www.arbitercollection.com). The pieces,which range from refrigerator magnets towine stoppers and coasters, are all created inwood from sustainable sources and featurenontoxic finishes to meet the growingdemand for products that incorporatesustainability into their production.

People are looking for multi-functional,versatile pieces, said Lynch. “They don’t

VOLUME 18, NUMBER 4 APRIL 2012

ONE ON ONE ......................7

RETAILER PROFILE.................8

TRADE SHOW BUZZ ............23

PRODUCT REVIEWS..............9

GENERAL NEWS2 www.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

WMF Americas Group Inc., a fully ownedsubsidiary of the leading German cookwaremanufacturer WMF Group, is introducingits innovative Silit brand of cookwarethroughout the United States.

“Based on our tremendous success withcookware and embracing healthy living as

a core value, WMF Americas Group Inc.knows the time is right to launch the Silitbrand in America,” said Deborah Corrado,Senior Vice President of Sales andMarketing for WMF Americas Group Inc.,which is based in the Charlotte, N.C., area.

In recent years, primarily through the

Cookware Maker WMF Makes Major Move Into U.S. Kitchens

Internet and in specialty outlets, Americanshave experienced Silit’s high quality in alimited capacity. Now, WMF AmericasGroup Inc. is broadening access at a timewhen its other brands are enjoying robustsales growth worldwide.

Corrado said that WMF Americas GroupInc. is confident that price-consciousAmerican consumers will embrace theopportunity to equip their kitchens with thisupper-end brand cookware. In particular,she said U.S. households will be attracted to

Silit’s tradition of durability, cookingefficiency, dedication to healthy eating habitsand fashion-forward color collections.

“Americans want to bring high-qualityproducts into their lives that will last,” shesaid. “This recession has taught us that,while we are historically a ‘throw-away’society spending on a product thatmaintains its usefulness and adds to thequality of our lives is a better investment.The Silit brand satisfies those needs.”

WMF Americas Group Inc. also has hiredindustry veteran Buzz Leer as NationalSales and Brand Manager.

“We believe in the Silit brand and productto such an extent,” Corrado said, “that aslean of a company as we are, it was importantto bring on a national sales brand managerto focus the Silit brand’s U.S. launch.”

For more information, visit www.wmf.comand www.wmfamericas.com.

Douglas Broward has been appointed to thenewly created office of AMC Senior VicePresident/Branding, a key position created tohelp accelerate and expand AmericasMart’sgrowth in the global tradeshow/trade martarena, said Jeffrey L. Portman, Sr., Presidentand Chief Operating Officer.

Broward is charged with creating andsustaining AmericasMart brand continuityacross all shows, markets and business linesthrough all marketing communicationschannels and in the AmericasMart on-sitebrand presence.

The new position further entrenchesAMC’s mission as a global marketingservices company and elevates thecelebrated AmericasMart brand as a drivingforce in delivering superior customerservice, Portman said.

“Douglas brings his creative prowess tobear on every aspect of our business,”Portman said. “He will help lead the chargeto express AmericasMart in cutting-edge,harmonious ways through all internal andexternal expressions of our brand.”

Broward joins AMC following his leadershipas Chief Creative Officer at GrizzardAdvertising, which is part of the globaladvertising and marketing firm OmnicomGroup. At Grizzard, and in other agenciesand firms, Broward served at the creativeforefront with highly successful brandingand strategic creative programmingdeveloped for a large stable of clients.

Broward to Helm AmericasMartGlobal Expansion

General News

Italian-based cookware manufacturerBallarini SpA, in a joint venture withItalian glassware company Luigi Bormioli,has created a Ballarini North Americansubsidiary. The business will be managedby Steve Schalk, Vice-President of Sales& Marketing, who brings more than 30years of experience in the cookware andhousewares industry, and will share NorthAmerican headquarters with LuigiBormioli in Horsham, Pa.

The joint venture between Ballarini andLuigi Bormioli unites two proud family-

owned Italian companies with a combinedexperience of more than 185 years of strongsuccess. The companies share a great dealof heritage and culture with their factories30 miles apart in northern Italy.

Both companies produce high-endproducts that represent an exciting fusionof Italian lifestyle, craftsmanship andleading edge production technology thatis “Made in Italy.”

The creation of the Ballarini subsidiarywith Luigi Bormioli brings a U.S. level of

Ballarini Creates North American Subsidiary With Luigi Bormioli

service to match the high quality ofBallarini’s cookware. Retailers maypurchase items on a direct import basisfrom Italy as well as thru the state-of-the-art warehouse Luigi Bormioli owns inSouth Carolina.

“Our plans are to duplicate the tremendoussuccess Ballarini has globally here in theUnited States market by offering thehighest quality of non-stick cookware witha long-term market commitment,” Schalksaid. “We will be introducing four newtitanium-based lines of cookware at theChicago housewares show.

“In addition to the technologicaladvancements that are synonymous withBallarini cookware, we are also bringing

to the market over 120 years ofmanufacturing experience with a producttruly Made in Italy with every attentionto every detail.”

“For the past 25 years,” said MarcelTrepanier, President of Luigi BormioliCorp., “Luigi Bormioli has provided anunsurpassed level of service and reliabilityto U.S. retailers, combined with aconsistent product offering of fine Madein Italy products. The heritage of Ballariniis a perfect match for Luigi Bormioli, andit allows both companies to leverage thelogistical expertise we have establishedhere in America.”

For more information, visit www.ballarini.itand www.luigibormioli.com.

GENERAL NEWSwww.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 3

Chef José Andrés will host the 40thannual sofi Awards to be presented at theSummer Fancy Food Show inWashington, D.C.

Named “Outstanding Chef ” by the JamesBeard Foundation, and internationallyrecognized as a culinary innovator, Andréswill serve as keynote speaker and presenterof the awards at a red-carpet ceremony onJune 18.

The sofi (specialty outstanding foodinnovation) Awards are considered thetop honor in the $70 billion specialty foodindustry. They recognize excellence inspecialty foods and beverages in 32categories from outstanding appetizer,antipasto or dip to outstanding vinegar.

The awards event is a highlight of theSummer Fancy Food Show, the largestmarketplace for specialty foods andbeverages in North America. It is ownedand operated by the National Associationfor the Specialty Food Trade Inc. The showwill take place June 17-19 at the Walter E.Washington Convention Center.

Andrés is credited with introducingAmericans to avant-garde and traditionalSpanish cooking, and is a passionateadvocate for food and hunger issues. HisThinkFoodGroup is responsible for someof the most noted dining concepts inWashington, D.C., including minibar byjosé andrés, Jaleo, Zaytinya, Oyamel andAmerica Eats Tavern.

In honor of his participation in the sofiAwards, NASFT will donate Andrés’speaking fee to World Central Kitchen, aglobal organization he leads that iscommitted to ending world hunger andDC Central Kitchen, the renowned non-profit in Washington he has long supported.

For information about NASFT and its Fancy Food Shows, go tospecialtyfood.com.

Noted Chef JoséAndrés to Hostsofi Awards at SFF

Microplane AppointsJanice Friedman toNat’l Sales Manager,Kitchen ProductsMicroplane announces the appointment ofJanice Friedman to the position of NationalSales Manager, Kitchen Products.Reportingdirectly to Joel Arivett, Vice President atMicroplane, Friedman will be responsiblefor management of all sales activities,customer relationships and marketdevelopment. Microplane’s independent salesrepresentatives will report to Friedman.Dayna Butler, the company’s former NationalSales Manager, has left the company.

A skilled veteran of the housewares industry,Friedman was most recently VP Sales,Eastern Region at SodaStream, where duringher three-year tenure, she successfullylaunched the brand at Macy’s, Bed Bath &Beyond, Bloomingdale’s, Frontgate and otherretail businesses. Friedman has also workedas National Sales Manager at TerraillonCorp., and as Regional Sales Manager forPolder Inc. Earlier in her career, Friedmanwas Cookware Sales Manager at LynnsConcepts, a Key Account Manager at T-FalCorp., and held various buyer and managerialpositions for Macy’s East.

GENERAL NEWS4 www.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

Scores of leading gourmet products andhousewares resources from around theworld are expected to return to New YorkCity in August for the GourmetHousewares Show at the New YorkInternational Gift Fair.

The second annual edition of the Showwill feature refined concentrations of both housewares and tabletop suppliers, aswell as a new four-day date patternrunning Sunday, Aug. 19, throughWednesday, Aug. 22, at the Jacob K. JavitsConvention Center.

“The Gourmet Housewares Show is aproven marketplace for housewaressuppliers wishing to expand their reachinto the gift, home and lifestyle markets,”said Dorothy Belshaw, NYIGF Directorand GLM Senior Vice President.

“There is a dynamic synergy betweenNYIGF’s design-driven resources and theGourmet Housewares Show's upscalegourmet products, offering clear benefitsfor buyers and exhibitors.”

The Gourmet Housewares Show presents some 175 suppliers of high-endresources in cookware, bakeware, kitchengadgets, kitchen textiles, bar and wine

accessories, small electrics, specialty food, cookbooks, storage/containers, andpicnic/barbecue accessories.

Key companies expected to return for the 2012 edition include: Aladdin;Blockhouse featuring Arc, Durand andMikasa Brands; Core Bamboo; JK Adams; Joseph Joseph; Mastrad; Mepra; Nespresso; Oggi; Picnic Time; Room Copenhagen; Scantrends;Yedi Housewares; and Zoku.

Several returning exhibitors haverequested larger exhibit spaces, including:Corkcicle, Core Bamboo, DKB, PicnicTime, Pillivuyt USA, Polder and Zevro.

The Gourmet Housewares Show’spositioning between NYIGF’s Tabletopand Accent on Design divisions offerssynergistic access to complementarydesign-focused suppliers and specialtytabletop lines.

On its northerly side, Accent on Designwill present ASA Selection, Blomus, EvaSolo, Mydrap, Stelton and UMBRA; andon its southerly aisle, Tabletop will featureArte Italica, Beatriz Ball, DeborahRhodes, Frances Stoia, Juliska, KimSeybert, Lunares, Mariposa, Match,

Key Brands Expected to Return toGourmet Housewares Show

Paul Ward-Willis Joins Welcome HomeBrands As Director of National Sales

Michael Aram, Mottahedeh, VagabondHouse, Vietri.

In total, the summer 2012 market willpresent 350 upscale resources for tableand kitchen.

Since its inception in 1975, the GourmetHousewares Show has provided aprofessional marketplace for the gourmetproducts and upscale housewaresindustries, offering a comprehensive mixof innovative new products, leadingresources, and industry trends, and theonly industry event to focus exclusively onhigh-end cookware, cutlery, bakeware,gadgets, tabletop, kitchen textiles andspecialty food.

NYIGF is the nation’s premier gift, homeand lifestyle marketplace, with more than2,800 exhibiting companies featuring anextraordinary breadth and depth ofdesign-driven home fashion products andcomplementary giftware.

Some 35,000 attendees from all 50 statesand more than 85 countries worldwideare expected. Information and registrationis available online at www.nyigf.com.

For exhibitor inf ormation, contact MarcDelman, sales manager, at 914.421.3260,or mdelman@glmshows.com. Informationand attendee registration is availableonline at www.thegourmetshow.com.

Paul Ward-Willis has joined WelcomeHome Brands in the newly createdposition of Director of National Sales, asthe company expands its paper bakewareand ceramics business.

Ward-Willis will be responsible formaintaining and expanding the company’sgrowing sales base of key account retailersand independent retailers, as well asmanaging its sales representative team. Hewill sell the company’s award-winningoven-safe Paper Bakeware to majornational accounts, specialty stores,supermarkets, and retail stores. Theextensive Paper Bakeware collection isavailable in more than 2,000 stores in theUnited States and 400 stores in Europe.

Ward-Willis will report to Sam Sheppardand Richard Aslanian, Co-Founders andCo-CEOs of Welcome Home Brands.

Ward-Willis joins Welcome Home Brandswith 15 years of marketing and salesexperience in housewares, tabletop andgiftware. Before joining Welcome HomeBrands, he was the National Sales Managerof Boska Holland, USA, a specialty cheeseand equipment housewares manufacturer.Previously he was the National SalesManager of Wüsthof-Trident of America.He has a Bachelor of Arts in Business andMarketing from The State University ofNew York in Purchase, N.Y.

GENERAL NEWSwww.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

Dallas Market Center has announced thatthe FINDS Dallas Temp Show will beheld Thursday through Sunday, June 21-24, for all categories with staggeredopening and closing dates by category.

This allows for additional buyingopportunities in key locations of thegrowing marketplace. The show is held inconjunction with the Dallas Total Home

& Gift Market (Wednesday throughTuesday, June 20-26).

Below are the dates for each FINDScategory: • Design FINDS (Trade Mart first flooratrium), Home & Hill Country FINDS(World Trade Center sixth floor), & SantaFe International Folk Art MarketCollection (Hall of Nations, World Trade

Center first floor atrium): Wednesday-Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• World Trade Center 12th floor andWorld Trade Center 13th floor FINDStemporaries: Thursday-Saturday, 8:30 a.m.to 6 p.m., and Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Categories located in Market Hallincluding Vintage Home FINDS,Furniture FINDS, French MarketFINDS, and Cash & Carry FINDS:Thursday-Sunday, 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. andMonday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Dallas Market Center website isavailable at www.dallasmarketcenter.com.

June FINDS Dallas Temp Show Features Staggered Opening, Closing Dates

5

Demarle USA has launched a new website,www.silpat.com, named for the original non-stick baking mat for which it is widely known.

The new website showcases the expandedline, including five rectangular Silpat sizes,an octagonal Silpat designed for microwaveuse, Silpain for the best in bread baking, andthree sizes of Roul’Pat, the ideal non-stickcountertop workstation for bakers.

Enhancing the customer serviceexperience, the site provides easy-to-

understand use and care instructions forall products, plus answers to frequentlyasked questions and links to productdemonstration videos for Silpat, Silpainand Roul’Pat.

Demarle’s customer service phone numberis prominent on every page. There is alsoa link to Silpat ’s Facebook page,www.facebook.com/mysilpat, for fans toshare experiences, recipes and more.

In its “Shop” section, the site refers

Demarle USA Launches New Website for Silpat

consumers to the many major retailersthat carry the Silpat line.

The site also tells the Silpat story. In the1960s, M. Guy Demarle, an experienced bakerin northern France, began experimenting withnon-stick silicone coatings in his search forways to create the perfect baguette.

The company continues its dedication to the baking and patisserie businesses, as both a foodservice baking essential and a favorite for home bakers. Demarle’s commitment to quality and the environment is an important part of its heritage. The company’s production facility is ISO 9001 certified, and the site catalogs its many

eco-friendly initiatives.

For more information, contact DemarleUSA at 609.395.0219 or visitwww.silpat.com.

Trade Mart

Market Hall

World Trade Center

IN THE ISSUE www.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW6

O N T H E C O V E R

FIRE WIRE Flexible Grilling Skewer [tel] 620.229.9800 www.inno-labs.com

BLACK+BLUMThermo-pot[tel] 877.360.7327www.black-blum.com

MUSTARD USACactooph[tel] 718.721.1273www.justmustard.com

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PRESIDENT Lee M. Oser

This issue of Kitchenware News & Housewares Review went to print on March 14, thevery next day after our return from the International Home + Housewares Show, andthe entire staff is exhausted from the trip but extremely excited about all we saw andheard during the show. The addition of Saturday to the schedule seems to have beena resounding success, and although we heard some rumblings that perhaps IHA shouldmerely have moved the show to Saturday through Monday rather than adding the extraday, we found that the show gave us plenty to do to fill every minute of the time itwas open.

Among the exciting product trends we saw this year were many, many items designedto help cooks create chef-quality food in their homes. Those ranged from the Herb Savor Mini Pod from Prepara, a beautiful way to keep cut herbs fresh andavailable, to Fissler’s induction-ready pressure cookers, gorgeous Aeternum nonsticksauté pans from Bialetti, the whole Mario Battali line from DANSK, and the new paellapans from Magefesa.

Products responding to consumer demand for environmental consciousness and safetywere everywhere in evidence. BergHOFF’s FernoGreen line as well as the ceramic-coated pans offered by ELO Stahlwaren and other manufacturers offer nonstickperformance as well as being better for the environment, and that’s a combination that’ssure to be embraced by consumers. We saw cutting boards made from recycled materials,Microban-treated water bottles from Case Logic, biodegradable food storage containers,replenish cleaning products in innovative packaging that’s kinder to the environmentand safe for pets and people, and the Spoiler Alert from FreezCube – all productsdesigned to appeal to consumers’ desire to protect the planet as well as their families.

Over the next year, we expect to see major retailers as well as mom-and-pop storesoffering an array of great products proudly labeled as Made in the USA. Those includerecycled tableware for kids offered by Green Eats, pepper grinders and rolling pins fromVic Firth Gourmet, cutting boards from Architec, J.K. Adams and Catskill Crafts, JewelStik diamond knife sharpeners, and Lenox fine bone china, which is made in NorthCarolina. When you’re putting those displays together, think about including bakingpans from USA Pan, All American pressure cookers/canners, Chef ’s Design cookwareand American Maid plastics.

American workers are eating more lunches at their desks, and they’re finding that brownbags and food storage containers with press-on lids aren’t meeting their needs. Theywant lunch boxes they can fill with food prepared at home, and they don’t want leakswhen they’re jostled on the train. And because the American workforce is increasinglyculturally diverse, these families want their lunch boxes to accommodate more than asandwich and an apple – they’re likely to want to pack along the pasta or posole leftover from last night’s dinner and a garden salad with dressing on the side. Aladdin,which has been making lunch kits for kids since the 1950s, is stepping into the marketwith container sets with clip-closed and screw-top leak-proof containers designed forconsumers with varying preferences for their lunch-time meals. Picnic Time and PicnicPlus both offer attractive kits sized for meals for one. Megatrade is offering a wholerange of insulated containers that’ll keep a multi-course meal hot or cold for hours.PACKiT has a great line of freezable cooler bags that fold up in the freezer and thenunfold to carry food and keep it cool for hours.

Overall, this year’s show revealed an industry that’s been thinking hard about howconsumers’ lives are changing and what products will appeal to their values and answertheir concerns as they evolve. Americans will be shopping for more than just a pricepoint this year – they want quality, they want functionality, they want products thatare safe for their families and good for the environment, and they want value. Thehousewares industry has them for sale.

Lee M. Oser, Publisher

publisherfrom the april 2012

contents2 GENERAL NEWS

7 ONE ON ONE

8 RETAILER PROFILE

9 PRODUCT REVIEWS

11 SPECIAL FEATURETABLEWARE

20 BUYERS GUIDEMETALWARE

21 GIFTWARETEA TIME

23 AD INDEX

23 UPCOMING EVENTS

ONE ON ONEwww.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 7

One on One

Atsushi Semimoto, Executive Director ofBusiness Development at the Japan Export& Trade Office ( JETRO) New York branch,tells us why retailers should take a closer lookat homeware from Tohoku, a region that isknown for craftsmanship and design. Theregion was the focus of the Japan Pavilion atthis year’s IH+HS.

Q: I understand there is a tradition ofdesign and craftsmanship that is particularto Tohoku. Can you tell us a bit aboutthis tradition and how it is reflected inthese modern products?

A: Tohoku, in the Northeastern region ofJapan, has long been famous for its richhistory of detailed craftsmanship. Ourexhibitors continue these traditions withtheir stunning, one-of-a-kind, handcraftedcreations in natural materials, includingwood, iron, lacquer and glass. While theymay also employ modern techniques andprocesses, their products are not massproduced as is the case for mosthomegoods today. They follow the famousMingei movement of folk and traditionalart, which is what Tohoku is so well knownfor. In fact, world-renowned designer SoriYanagi always praised Tohoku’scraftsmanship, and you can see the greathandcrafting skills in all of our exhibitorsand their respect for upholding tradition.

Q: These products’ origin story isunusually compelling. Do you see moreinterest from retailers in a product’s story?What about consumers?

A: Today’s shoppers are "experience"shoppers as well as product shoppers. Theywant something unique, special, differentwhen they make a purchase. They wantsomething that "tells a story," that canmake what they bought more than a usefulobject but one that has a background, thatcan become a topic of conversation overdinner. Heritage, tradition and backgroundhelp add to a product's mystique—and allthat applies a great deal to the JapanPavilion exhibitors as each has a great storyto tell. Also, since shoppers worldwide arebecoming "greener" and more involvedwith the ecology and sustainability, all ofthe products displayed by our exhibitors are100 percent produced in Japan with naturalor eco-friendly materials.

Q: With a cookbook on Tohoku cuisinecoming out soon (by culinary expertElizabeth Andoh), do you think this is aneffective way to merchandise any of theitems, or to display them with food itemssuch as sakes?

A: Showing a cookbook with the utensils

and the servingproducts—coordinated andaccessorized withsoftening elements(cloths, napkins,place mats, flowers,simulated food)—does make anintriguing setting in

store windows, or in-store focal areas. Italso helps a great deal that Japanese cuisinehas dramatically risen in popularity aroundthe world, including in the U.S. in recentyears, and I see so many Japaneserestaurants opening all over the country.This trend makes Japanesecookware and housewaresmore relevant than ever tothe American public. Thegrowing interest in sakes,and the ease with whichthey can be paired withinternational foods, or foodswith which Americans are already familiar,is another logical connection that retailerscan establish with their customers. Servingsakes with authentically Japanese sakeaccessories will help you create the rightatmosphere, especially for entertaining.

Q: This interview is happening before theIHA show, but some of these products havebeen to a few major shows elsewhere. Canyou tell us a bit about their success there?

A:The idea for a Japan Pavilion comprisedsolely of exhibitors from the Tohoku regionarose from the Japan government as a resultof the March 2011 disaster. Consequently,the Tohoku region was presented as part ofthe Japan Pavilion at Ambiente 2012 inFebruary, and some exhibitors evenparticipated in Maison et Objet in Paris.All of the Tohoku exhibitors were very wellreceived in Europe by both international

and U.S. buyers. For example, thecast iron cookware and children’sdesign items and toys evenattracted retailers from New York.I think their success is a tribute tothe high quality and uniqueness oftheir products.

Q: Is there any detail that can beshared about how supply lines have beenrebuilt to assure consistent deliveries?

A: According to government statistics,more than 90 percent of overall Japanesemanufacturing managed to restore their

supply chains very quickly after the March11 quake and tsunami. We are fortunatethat the Tohoku exhibitors have withstoodthe hardships of the disaster, actively havere-established their supply lines, and arenow able to present their magnificentproducts to buyers in the U.S. and inEurope. In fact, we hope retailers andconsumers will see past the recovery effortand simply appreciate our exhibitors’products for what they are: beautiful andunique items that can add a great deal ofinternational charm and sophistication toconsumers’ lives.

Atsushi SemimotoJAPAN EXPORT & TRADE OFFICE

Retailer ProfileRETAILER PROFILE www.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

Bridge Kitchenware Sells QualityBY LORRIE BAUMANN

A customer who walks into BridgeKitchenware in Madison, N.J., is likelyto get this advice from owner StevenBridge and his wife, Kathy: Buy quality.If you cannot afford it all at once, wait andadd pieces over time. Buy the biggestroasting pan, stock pot, and fish poacheryou ever think you’ll need—you can alwaysput less in it.

Bridge absorbed that wisdom himself as hegrew up working in the kitchenware storethat his father, the late Fred Bridge, startedwith his mustering-out pay after WorldWar II. The business, originally known asThe Bridge Company, was born in theheart of New York City in 1946 as akitchenware supplier to the restauranttrade. As soon as he was old enough to beput to work there, Bridge was busy in thestore. “I learned to count by playing withthe money in the register,” he says. Overthe years, he’s worked in all aspects of the

business. The Bridge Company has evolvedinto Bridge Kitchenware, supplying retailcustomers with professional-qualitycookware that will last them a lifetime.“What I sell you, you’ll give to yourchildren,” he says. “I don’t carry glassmixing bowls because they don’t bouncewell. I don’t carry ceramic knives becausethey shatter when they’re dropped. Yesthey’re nice, but breakage is a concern. I’mall about the functionality.”

That evolution from restaurant supply storeto retail shop with a strong restaurantfollowing began in the mid-1960s, whencooking shows by Jacques Pepin and JuliaChild exposed the American public to therange of kitchenware available at that timeonly to professional chefs. Customers beganseeking out the kitchenware they saw on TV,and in New York City, they found TheBridge Company on the east side ofManhattan. In 2008, the store moved closerto the Bridges’ home in New Jersey to lessen

their commute, enabling a better quality oflife for their family. “We were working fromnine to six in urban retail. We would leavehome before 6:30 in the morning, and by thetime we had done our banking, we weregetting out of the city at 8:30,” he says.“Our children were 5 and 3 years old. Weweren’t getting time to spend with them.Had we still been in the 52nd Streetlocation, I think we would have moved ourhome instead.” They moved the businessinto their existing warehouse, previouslyused to receive ocean containers ofmerchandise from Europe. Within a shorttime, their business partner needed to sellthe warehouse, so the Bridges opted to movedown the street to a much larger facility. Twoyears later, the gas company bought thatbuilding to expand a gas pipeline.

Walk-in business declined steeply withthe move out of New York City, but so didthe cost of doing business. “My rent isone-twentieth of what I was paying inNew York,” he says. The new storefront inMadison is a 600-square-foot shop thatcarries a smaller selection of kitchenware.A 4,300-square-foot warehouse ofadditional stock is a few miles away inEast Hanover. If a customer needssomething that doesn’t happen to be in theshop, Bridge can usually have it there thenext day. “We don’t need to have awarehouse in a retail location. Thatrealization opened up more opportunitiesto be along the train route,” he says.

The hit to the store’s walk-in retailbusiness was mitigated by the largeproportion of Bridge’s business that comesfrom the Internet. Bridge traces thebeginnings of that to the mail-order

catalog he started in 1992. BridgeKitchenware went online when helaunched the shop’s first website in 1996.In those days, the mail-order customerscame from New York, New Jersey,Connecticut, California and Texas. Thelast paper catalog was published in 2003,a victim of the costs of printing anddistributing it, and now the Internet drawsin business from all over the world,including Australia, France and Italy. “I sellFrench cookware, and I have customers inFrance who order that from me. I have acustomer in Russia now,” Bridge says. “It’snot cheap to ship to her.”

In 2009, Travel & Leisure magazinenamed the store one of six throughoutthe world as must-visit shops for cooks.Steven and Kathy Bridge are still sellingthe same kinds of products that Fred soldin that original Manhattan store: classicitems of professional-quality cookwareand very little kitchen gadgetry. Bridgewill sell an item that’s new on the marketonly if he sees that it’s a real improvementon its predecessor, he says. “A lot of otherstores are interested in selling what’s hot,but we aren’t one of them,” he says. “Ilook at function. They’ve got to functionwell. All of our cookware goes in the oven,goes in the dishwasher.”

Even though most of his sales are tocustomers from around the world that he’sunlikely ever to meet, Bridge still enjoysseeing the customers who visit hisMadison shop. “I enjoy meeting all mycustomers. Putting a face with a namealways means a lot to me,” he says.“Customer service is important. I believein that. But the quality means everything.”

8

Product Reviews

BY A.J. FLICK

We’ve featured KitchenHappy’s Snapi® inprevious issues of Kitchenware News &Housewares Review and have seen how thefun, single-hand servers has become sopopular that the line has expanded to includeseven colors: Grape (purple), Tangerine(orange), Mango (yellow), Ice (white), Kiwi(green), Watermelon (red) and Berry (blue).

KitchenHappy likes to say that Snapi is“the fun way to serve food,” so when itcame to testing the Snapi at home, Idecided to have a little fun with it.

First, though, I wanted to see how goodit was at its primary function: servingfood. I whipped up a batch of penne pastawith Alfredo sauce and fresh, parboiledbroccoli. As expected, the Snapi was abreeze to use and I was able to grab tastyhandfuls of the pasta easily.

Cleanup was simple, too. The Snapi is

dishwasher safe and just as easy to washby hand.

Clearly, Snapi would be just as handywhen it comes to tossing and servingsalads. I don’t know about you, butsometimes using salad tongs leads to moresalad on the counter than in the bowl.The Snapi gives you a lot more controlwith slippery salads.

I wondered if Snapi has other uses, too. Idon’t have an automatic ice-maker in myfreezer, so I buy bags of ice and use ascoop. The Snapi is great for this use. Ikeep it in the freezer and its BPA-freeplastic doesn’t adhere to my skin as itgrabs the ice. It’s also handy to throw inthe ice chest for cookouts and such. Youknow how you reach in for a can and comeout with a frozen hand? Next time, get aSnapi and, unless you’re digging on thebottom of the cooler, your drink will be

ice-cold, but not your flesh.

What else is the Snapi good for? Well, I’lltell you one thing it isn’t. Playing withyour cat. My Siamese seems to think myhands are great to chew on, so I thoughtI’d see if she’d like to chew on a Snapiinstead. She seemed interested at first,when I approached with an open Snapi,but when I clicked it shut, she gave itsuch a look of disgust that I was afraid toapproach her for an hour.

In sum: Pasta, salads, yes; ice coolers,yes; cats, no.

Snapi retails for less than $10. It’s availablein point-of-purchase counter, floor and clipstrip displays for all seven colors. Each Snapialso comes in bulk packaging and includesa hang tag ready for replenishment oncustom displays. For more information, goonline to http://wholesale.kitchenhappy.com,e-mail smiles@kitchenhappy.com or call248.453.5177.

Snapi Allows Single-HandedServing for Many Uses

BY A.J. FLICK

You usually never appreciate good storagecontainers until you get a bad one andpull out a stale cookie; find one on itsside in the fridge with the contentsdripped three levelsbelow; or grab onewith slippery hands,only to have thecontainer crash to thefloor and your flourdusting every surface.

ClickClack pridesitself on makingstylish, functionalkitchenware that ’suser friendly, airtight,durable and with aquality design.

ClickClack Cubes arepleasing to the eyewith their sleek,modular design. TheCubes come withclear bodies andwhite, black or redsoft-toggle lids. Theyare designed to stackwhen in use or nestwhen not.

To test the air-tightness, I used onecontainer to store cereal, which came outas fresh as it went in. I also put water inone and set it on its side in the refrigerator,

proving it didn’t spill.

To test the durability, I put flourin one and dropped it on thefloor. The lid stayed in place andthe BPA-free plastic body didn’tcrack. I also put water in acontainer and froze it, whichdidn’t faze the Cube at all.

To test the stylishness, all I hadto do was stack the containerson my kitchen counter and,without even pointing themout, had a friend remark abouthow nice they looked.

Cubes come in sets of three:one with .9 L/1 qt., 1.9 L/2 qt.,3.3 L/3.5 qt.; and one with 1.4L/1.5 qt., 2.8 L/3 qt., 4.3L/4.5qt.

For more information, pleasecall 800.884.4543, e-mailusinfo@clickclack.com or goonline to www.clickclack.com.

ClickClack Cubes Make Countertop Storage Classy

PRODUCT REVIEWwww.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 9

GIFTWARE www.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW10

Giftwareny tabletop

Two iconic international luxury brands topthe list of showroom openings at Forty OneMadison Avenue when The New YorkTabletop Market gets underway, April 17-20.

Hermès and its stable of tabletop beauties willbe making a statement with the completionof its new 3,000-square-foot location on the22nd floor. On display here under thecompany’s home division banner, Art de laTable, are La Table Hermès brandeddinnerware and accessories, Saint-Louiscrystal and Puiforcat silver. The space,designed by Rena Dumas Architectured’Interieur also has been configured to includeexecutive offices for company management.

“We are very pleased to join Forty OneMadison,” said Olivier Pechou, VicePresident Art de la Table/Interior DesignProjects, “and are eager to have a space towelcome press, architects, designers, as wellas our partners all year long.”

Newly opened on the 22nd floor will beRalph Lauren Home, in a 2,500-square-footspace showcasing its impressive breadth ofgifts and decorative accessories. Thesophisticated signature collection reflectsquality and craftsmanship with a timelesssensibility. Several introductions will befeatured among an extensive array ofenduring classics.

Tzeng Shyng is another Forty One Madisonnewcomer. Its U.S. operations occupy a2,500-square-foot space on the third floorthat includes showroom and offices. AtMarket, it will take the wraps off of its eco-friendly tabletop designs of GML GreenMelamine and Bio Bamboo Fiber, amongother collections. Charles Guthrie III,President, of Tzeng Shyng Group, said, “Wemade a strategic decision to redirect ourmarketing efforts to a ‘factory direct’ platformand focus our efforts toward direct servicevenues with our key accounts.

NY Tabletop Market Showcases Hermès, Ralph Lauren Home Showroom Openings

“In this transition,” he continued, “we feltForty One Madison offered the premierelocation and venue for showcasing our newproduct offerings and attracting the retailerswe currently do business with plus thosewho are potential partners. Laurie Burnsand the management of Forty One Madisonhave demonstrated their keen ability to hostthe best suppliers in a world-class facility, andwe desired to be a part of that success.”

A sign of revived commerce and industrygrowth is that several showrooms are expandingthis spring. One of the biggest moves of noteis Tervis, which heads to the recently renovatedeighth floor and a location that will triplewhere it previously was housed. Michael Aram,which moved into Forty One on the eighthfloor just a year ago, also is taking on additionalspace on the floor. Another neighbor, CircleGlass, is increasing its real estate by 50 percent,an expansion that also comes within a year ofmoving into the building.

“With these additions and expansions, FortyOne Madison will showcase even more solidresources and products at the upcomingshow,” said Laurie Burns, Senior Vicepresident and Director.

On April 18, Forty One Madison is hosting

a breakfast seminar headlined by SimonDoonan, who for 27 years was creativedirector at Barneys New York, putting theretailer on the map with his fantasmagoricwindows and displays. Now as Barneyscreative ambassador at large, he’s beenappearing in-store coast-to-coast to promotehis latest book (his fifth), “Gay Men Don’tGet Fat.” It is a deliciously hysterical readthat includes, among other topics,commentary on food, which he defines aseither gay or straight.

With a career in fashion that spans morethan 35 years, Doonan has won many awardsfor his window designs and was invited byPresident and Mrs. Obama to decorate theWhite House for the 2009 holiday season.

“Simon Doonan is guaranteed to starteveryone’s day off in high spirits,” said Burns.“His skewed vision is irresistible, and we’reexcited to be able to host him at The NewYork Tabletop Market.”

In addition to taking questions followinghis presentation, Doonan also will beavailable to sign books, with each guestreceiving a complimentary copy courtesy ofForty One Madison (while supply lasts.)With seating limited, reservations for thisevent are strongly recommended atswainberg@rudin.com or 212.686.1203.

Martha Stewart Weddings has said “I do” tocreating the Forty One Madison AvenueLobby Tables, and editor-in-chief ElizabethGraves is promising brilliant treatments thatwill send sparks of creativity flying among allmarket attendees, be they bridal-focused orothers. The settings will be on displaythroughout the show.

Editor-At-Large is co-sponsoring InteriorDesigner Day on April 19. It’s the one specialday during Market for professional interiordesigners and architects to have direct accessto the resources and company principals inthe building. It’s also an ideal occasion forexploring the showrooms and sizing up thepotential finishing touches for their designprojects. Kicking off the day will be abreakfast and panel discussion with sometop-name designers who’ve successfullyincreased their businesses by helping theirclients with tableware and barware selections.

Following this informative session, guestswill be free to roam the showrooms. Editor-At-Large will film throughout the morning,as well, and post highlights on its popularwebsite, editoratlarge.com.

The Café on Level A will take on a bit of aFrench flair as Bridal Guide serves “April inParis” themed eats. It’s a popular spot in thebuilding for meetups with colleagues inbetween appointments and showroom visits.Enjoy the complimentary foodserviceTuesday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Wednesday, noon-4 p.m.; and Thursday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

VOLUME 18, NUMBER 4 APRIL 2012

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

S E RV I N G K I T CH ENWA R E , HOU S EWA R E S AND TA B L E TO P MA R K E T S

tabletop

TABLETOP www.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW12

TABLETOP(Cont. from Page 1)

just want a platter for the buffet table,” sheexplained. “They want to use the samepiece as a decorative element, perhapswith tea or pillar candles.”

Lynch¸ who has a twofold perspective ontrends because she also is the proprietorof Salt of the Earth (www.salt-earth.com),a retail outlet in St. Louis, Mo., said her clients aren’t as constrained as they oncewere by the seasons. “Theydon’t want pieces that knockyou over the head like mySpode Christmas china,” shesaid. “People want their piecesto go beyond one season and function.”

For example, the same bowloften can be used for bread aswell as for pasta. “When Isuggest this to a client, a light bulb goeson and they think, ‘What else can I usethis for?’” she said. Often, a single-servingpiece can have four or five uses.

Very popular now is Arbiter’s RicardoMarzi Livingstone Collection. Created in

neutral colors that look like they are madeof river stones and pebbles, the pieces aremolded acrylic resin and extremelyversatile, Lynch said. “Customers startwith a bowl, which works both asserveware and as a decorative piece, thenover time, they’ll add servers, a platter, avase, and other pieces they can use withtableware they already have.” Arbiter’sEgizia line, which is glassware withapplied silver, includes a vase that doublesas an ice bucket.

The perfect blend of whimsy andpracticality is realized in theglassware/barware created by the artisans atRolf Glass (www.rolfglass.com) in Mt.Pleasant, Pa., now the only manufacturerleft in what was once the Lennox ChristmasFactory. Using glassware produced by U.S.manufacturers—Libbey, Arc and AnchorHocking—Rolf 's engravers and glass cutterstransform utilitarian pieces into somethingmore personalized.

“Take a tumbler,” said Owner RolfPoeting. “They all look alike, and are aspractical as they are boring. We can takethe same tumblers and make 30 differentversions.” Rolf ’s glassware includesnautical and coastal lines, which Rolf saidare by far the company’s most popular.“People like them for vacation spots andsecond homes.”

There also is a growing demand forvintage and classic looks, especially whenthey incorporate a new twist. Rolf recently

introduced a new line, namedJerk, in honor of the sodafountain glassware fromwhich it was inspired. Thepieces feature vintage, ’50sdiamond-wheel engraving,with splashes of color on thebottoms that, whilereminiscent of Depressionglass, are new elements on aclassic shape.

Poeting explained that Rolf isin the unique position to beable to do small test runs, and then tailor its lines to those that are mostsuccessful. The company is expanding itsreach from gift and destination stores intogourmet shops, as well. “Our school offish design is now on 25 different items,including bowls, carafes and martiniglasses,” said Poeting.

At Eusamex, designers continue to workwith bold colors. “We’re seeing an interestin funky colors, like oranges, purples andreds,” said Nathalie Johnston, ManagingDirector/Partner Eusamex USA, Inc.(www.eusamex.com). “Eggplant continuesto be popular, as well as turquoise. Peopleare attracted to deep, rich tones that aremore bold in color,” like those depicted inthe company’s images d’Orient line. And,according to Johnston, grays, reds andblacks will be popular in tableware for thewinter holiday season. The black andwhite Hammen line was introduced at theInternational Home + Housewares Showthis month.

Not exactly whimsical, butcertainly reflecting the trend, iscustomers’ attraction to historicalcomponents of the imagesd’Orient line, which featurescoasters that depict legendarycharacters. The back of thecoasters reveals biographicalinformation. “People like lookingat the historic characters andlearning something about theculture,” said Johnston.

The trend toward metallic accents can beseen in textiles from Chilewich(www.chilewich.com), which recentlyintroduced its Metallic Lace line of table coverings. “At first glance, it appears to be real metal,” said PatMcNellis, Vice President of Wholesaleand Hospitality at Chilewich Sultan LLC.“However, upon closer inspection, it isclearly a very intricate and refined textile.This open abstract netting is printed withsilver foil and becomes a trulycontemporary lace.” McNellis said thetabletoppers are in line with trends seenin both fashion and tabletop for metallicsilver and gold colors.

Of its silver-accented Egizia glass line,Arbiter’s Lynch said, “We refer to them aseveryday luxuries. Instead of buying a lotof something, the trend is to buysomething really nice that will hold itsvalue,” which describes the buying trendfor most buyers in any market.

FLIP & TUMBLE SALT + PEPPER SQUEEZERSThese Salt + Pepper Squeezers fromflip & tumble are a fun and modernalternative to the traditional salt andpepper shaker. Just give them asqueeze for a fun new way to dispensesalt and pepper. Once you’re done,give them a roll to pass them along.Each set includes two squeezers andone base. Available in black/white,green, and orange.Suggested Retail Price: $24

flip & tumble[tel] 415.830.5624www.flipandtumble.com

STARFRIT CAT CORA HEAVY GAUGE FORGED NON STICK COOKWARE SETWith practical, oversized sauce pansand a steamer ideal for healthycooking, the Cat Cora by Starfrit 10-piece Heavy Gauge Forged Non StickCookware Set is sure to become anessential part of the home kitchen foryears to come! The heavy gauge,forged, non-stick set features an extra-thick base that browns meat perfectlyand has a scratch-resistant, PFOA-freeinner coating that is eco-friendly and abreeze to clean. Due to its heavy gauge

forged base, the set is durable enoughfor everyday use while providing evenheat distribution and even cooking. Theexclusive riveted stainless steel andsilicone handle is heat resistant up to392°F/200°C, providing a secure grip.The glass lids allow the user to watch thefood without lifting the lid. The stunningset is available in blue, red and blackand includes a limited lifetime warranty. Suggested Retail Price: $229.95

Starfrit[tel] 514.871.1671www.catcora.com

ABBIAMO TUTTO POMODORI COLLECTIONAbbiamo Tutto, which is celebrating its10th anniversary this year, works onlywith Italian artists and manufacturers.Its products are 100 percent made inItaly, start to finish. One of its newproducts introduced earlier this year isthe Pomodori collection (pomodorimeans “tomato” in Italian). Suggested Retail Price: $14-78

Abbiamo Tutto[tel] 703.790.0172www.e-abbiamotutto.com

TABLETOPwww.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 13

JEWELSTIK DIAMOND KNIFE SHARPENERJewelStik Diamond Knife Sharpenershave been quite a hit. HewlettManufacturing has been making theever-popular diamond oval knifesharpener for almost 50 years and itstop priority is U.S.A.-made quality.Hewlett is proud to always have beenentirely produced, assembled andpackaged in Pennsylvania since itsinception almost 50 years ago. Newcustomers are still seeking to carrythe JewelStik as an addition to theircutlery line and are pleased to offeran American-made product. TheJewelStik 1-2-3 series is unique byoffering three diamond grits on onehandle. A coarse grit (270), which willgive an edge to any dull blade,should not be used on a regularbasis. The medium grit (600) isstandard in the industry formaintaining a consistent edge. Thefine grit (1800) is supreme for fine-honing your thin blades used forslicing or skinning. JewelStik is anentire line of sharpening needs, ovaltwo sided or three side or flatsharpeners. All styles are available inlengths of 5", 10", 12" and 14".

Hewlett Manufacturing[tel] 814.683.4762 www.jewelstik.com

CORE BAMBOO PREP STATIONCore Bamboo’s prep station withcolorful silicone measurement bowls is ideal for all food prep,presentation and serving. Made ofdurable, long-lasting renewablebamboo that is harder than mosttraditional hardwoods, this boardwon't dull knives and is maintenancefree. The measuring bowls can beused to keep spices handy andmeasure out ingredients whenpreparing a meal with this largesurface prep board. The board was designed to be raised abovecounter level so that you can slide aplate or pot right under the surface,making it easy and mess free totransfer ingredients. Prepareeverything from weekday meals to aholiday dinner with this durablecutting board and present yournewest culinary creation at yourtable with pride.

Core Bamboo[tel] 646.845.6000www.corebamboo.com

BELLEEK ARAN COLLECTIONHand knitting has been popular inIreland since the 17th century,originating on the Aran Islands, whichlie on the most westerly point ofEurope, across from Galway Bay. Thedesigners at Belleek have beeninspired by the rustic but beautifulpatterns found in Aran hand knitting.Each unique pattern originates fromdifferent families and holds its ownname and story. The Aran collection iscomplemented by accent patterns,such as Cable and Tree of Life, whichcan be mixed to enhance your table.Belleek is resilient and functional,microwave/dishwasher-safe, yet it islight and exquisitely detailed.

Belleek[tel] 855.212.0547[email] salesna@belleek.ie

LINDEN SWEDEN DALOPLAST DRINKWARENo worries on the beach, poolside,patio, picnic, boating, camping orother outdoor dining with Daloplastdrinkware. Traditionally elegant designs,but so carefree in use. The whole familywill enjoy the variety of styles with newcolors for 2012. Stemware consists ofwine, ice tea/beer, tall champagneand cordial. The tumblers are designedto stack for easy storing. Tumblers comein two convenient sizes: 12 oz. and 17 oz. Summer is coming—get ready foroutdoor activities. Daloplast drinkwarefeatures include: shatterproof; top-rackdishwasher safe; made of BPA-free SAN (styrene acrylonitrile); food safe; available in four colors: purple,aqua, semi-clear and lime; and madein Sweden.

Linden Sweden[tel] 608.756.8741www.lindensweden.com

TABLETOP www.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW14

MARY HARPER GROUP ROSSANA COLLECTIONThe Mary Harper Group representssome of the finest manufacturers inthe gift, tabletop and home décorindustries from Frances Stoia andMurval to Phaidon Press, Seda Franceand Tocca. The Rosanna collectionfrom the very gifted designer and artist,Rosanna Bowles, features manyproducts designed for carefree elegant entertaining. Rosanna offers a wide array of china, flatware,glassware and accessories.

Mary Harper Groupwww.maryharpergroup.com

PLACETILES CERAMIC LABELSPlaceTiles are stylish erasableceramic accent labels, perfect as table place cards for guests or as a descriptive accessory for each dish being served. No morecheap paper or plastic tags,PlaceTiles are a nice, personalizedfinishing touch for a dinner party,reception or any gathering, givingthe VIP treatment to guests andhighlighting each dish. Comes in avariety of styles such as Medallion,Fleur-di-Lis, Vine, Shell and more.Suggested Retail Price: $35 for a set of 6

PlaceTiles[tel] 678.467.4776www.placetile.com

ISLAND BAMBOO TABLETOP TRIOThe Island Bamboo™ Tabletop Trio isalso an elegant way to store andpresent teas, spices and snacks. Craftedfrom light and durable Moso bamboo,these pieces are great for everyday useand will not absorb or impart odors. TheTea Box, which stores up to eightvarieties of tea bags, features a flip-toplid that seals out moisture to maintainfreshness. The Triple Scoop Box has threecompartments with a long-handledbamboo spoon recessed inside toconveniently serve up sugar cubes,cinnamon sticks and ginger orchocolates, nuts and mints. Perfect forshowcasing and protecting gourmetsalts or dry spices, the Salt Cellar has asimple yet elegant design with hingedlid to seal out moisture. Island Bamboois known for having the largest selectionof eco-friendly bamboo kitchenware.Trees for Shade…Bamboo for Boards,Island Bamboo makes bambooalternatives to traditional wood products.Island Bamboo products are an earth-friendly choice for kitchenware productsbecause they are high quality with along, useful life; manufactured frombamboo, a renewable resource; andthoughtfully packaged to reduce waste.Each sold separately; these and otherbamboo serveware are available in the2012 Island Bamboo Product Catalog.Suggested Retail Price: $9.99-25.99

Island Bamboo [tel] 949.492.9921www.islandbamboo.com

VIETRI RECYCLED PRISM DRINKWAREA dimpled texture adds rich dimensionto your table in a variety of light-catching hues. Made in Spain ofrecycled glass. Dishwasher safe. Suggested Retail Price: $9-32

Vietri Inc.[tel] 919.732.5933www.vietri.com

SPEED-PULL DECORKER WITH BUILT-IN FOIL CUTTERThe only handheld uncorking machinethat easily fits into a kitchen drawerwith all the power of a bigger machine!Get rid of those bulky corkscrews. Built-in foilcutter also eliminates the problemof losing the foilcutter. Compact,innovative design opens bottles inseconds. Place machine over bottle.Squeeze side handle and turn thebottle to activate foil cutter. Comes ina pearl chrome finish, stands 81⁄8" tall,4¾" wide. Comes in a four-color box.Suggested Retail Price: $19.99

Franmara[email] info@franmara.comwww.franmara.com

TEAQUARIUMA traditional tea flower is a visual treatand the TEAquarium offers the bestway to brew them. This fluid designincludes a drink through filter locatedat the top of the glass and perfect formany that enjoy green tea, matte andmany herbal teas keeping the tea inthe cup. The top has a fine mesh foodsafe stainless filter and a simple pressfit with the food safe silicone insulation.The hand made double wall 9 oz glassfeatures our new single wall drinkingand elegant with or without the filterfor tea or any beverage. This is newdesign 9 oz double wall glass includesa silicone base. Highwave iscelebrating 30 years 2012. Every yearwe develop new designs and for 2012our theme is Fluid Design for Coffee,Tea, Beer, Wine & Spirits and Water.Stop by and visit High wave at theInternational Tea Show in Las Vegasto see other new Fluid Designs.

Highwave Inc.[tel] 800.444.4928www.highwave.com

TAG FOXY FALL WOODEN TRAYSThese wooden trays from the FoxyFall Collection designed by tag,feature rope handles and come in aset of two.Suggested Retail Price: $96

tag[tel] 773.871.1300

ARTEL BANANA LEAVES From Joseph Conrad’s “Heart ofDarkness” to the paintings of HenriRousseau, the primal mystique of thejungle landscape has long captivatedthe imagination of the modern world.Banana Leaves transports the viewerinto the thick of a dense jungle—nomachete required! Similar in design toJungle Baroque but without the animaldepictions, Banana Leaves featuresoverlapping images of thickly veinedfoliage, bringing a taste of the rainforestto any table setting or home décor.Banana Leaves also differs from JungleBaroque in its inclusion of an additionalproduction step: After being mouth-blown and sandblasted, each piece ispainstakingly hand-painted with agolden hue, kiln-fired, and then hand-colored and kiln-fired a second time,after which the gold color is only visibleon the inside of the glass. The result isa truly unique object that evokes awalk in the tropics – rich with detail,bright color, and the unexpectedsurprise of sparkling gold flashes onthe interior.

Artel Glass[tel] 646.216.9415 www.artelglass.com

ACACIA CREATIONS OLIVE WOOD COLLECTIONAcacia Creations takes recycledmaterials and reinvents them intobeautiful bowls and tabletop piecesfor the home. Recycled magazinebowls and fallen olive woodtableware are among the beautifullyhandcrafted pieces AcaciaCreations offers. Using only recycledand reclaimed materials found inKenya and practicing fair tradeprinciples, Acacia Creations is aneco-friendly company with a trueappreciation for its artists. The OliveWood Collection includes: 3" bowlwith teaspoon, traditionally used assalt and pepper servers; 6" bowls,versatile enough for anything(natural or painted); 8" divided horsd’oeuvres bowl, perfect for drysnacks; Salad servers: painted,spiraled, or branched; Double bowland double spoon; Heart-shapednesting bowls (set of three).Suggested Retail Price: $7.50-28

Acacia Creationswww.acaciacreationsstore.com

TABLETOPwww.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 15

RED CLAY HOME'S INCLINE AT SUNSET BOWLSThe delicately sloping edge of thisserving bowl creates a beautiful nestto display fruit or corral loose items.Simple yet stunning, the Incline atSunset bowl is suitable to serve saladsor sides, or just add a pop of style toany space. The bowls available inPeacock, Flame, and White, measure10" in diameter and 5" deep, are Foodsafe and made in the USA.Suggested Retail Price: $69

Red Clay Home[tel] 415.205.7137 www.redclayhome.com

FIX BY JULIA TREUTIGER Julia Treutiger graduated from theUniversity of Lund, Sweden in 2010 andhas already made a name for herself.Julia’s design all have the samecombination of form and aestheticsfor functional and of course beautifulproducts. The new Fix series wasinspired by the simple designs fromour past. Her desire with the Fix linewas to create a line that offered cleandesign and great function. The result isa line of functional and decorativeitems for the kitchen in stoneware andoak. The Fix line includes the LemonSqueezer, shown here, as well asceramic spice mill with container, herbpot, salt and pepper set, bowl with lidand trivet and grater with container.Suggested Retail Price: $18.95 for Lemon Squeezer

Sagaform USA[tel] 856.761.4050www.sagaform.com/usa

KUHN RIKON BISTRO OIL & VINEGAR CRUETS Designed by award-winning Swissdesigner Philipp Beyeler, the Kuhn Rikon Bistro Oil & Vinegar Cruets arefitted with a cleverly-engineeredadjustable non-drip spout, allowing oiland vinegar to pour evenly from a dripto flow, adding just the right flavor toyour meal. The glass cruets arecomplemented with colorful anddurable tops. The center handle liftsup the base to hold the cruets securelyin place when moving from kitchen totable, and helps keep countertops andtables mess free. Measuring 6½" tall,these 3-piece sets are available in threecolors: Black, White and Red. Suggested Retail Price: $30

Kuhn Rikonwww.kuhnrikon.com

KRI KRI STUDIO'S VIT DINNERWAREKri Kri Studio introduces artist KristinNelson’s VIT line of dinnerware. VIT(pronounced “veet”) porcelain dishesare elegant, clean and crisp. Verticalor horizontal hand-drawn white linesdetail the five VIT colors; gray, taupe,yellow, coral and jade green. Thehandmade quality enriches a simple,Scandinavian sensibility. Place settingsinclude dinner and salad plates, twobowl sizes and a mug. VIT also offersa large serving bowl and vases.Pleasingly thin, this line is durable anddishwasher safe. Wholesale Price: $18-60

Kri Kri Studio[tel] 206.790.3301www.planetkrikri.comFUSIONBRANDS SERVEITUP

Elevate your favorite plate with theserveitup—the first stand that providesa secure lift to any size or shape plateor bowl. Put your everyday plate on apedestal and instantly raise the bar onserving and entertaining. The serveituphas a porcelain base, topped with asuction cup that securely affixes to flat,non porous dinnerware. Small standholds 6-8" plates and bowls. Large standholds 10-12" plates and bowls.Suggested Retail Price: $20 (small), $30(large)

fusionbrandswww.fusionbrands.com

WILLIAM BOUNDS MILLSCapitalize on quality with Made in the USA line of William Bounds pepper,salt and spice mills, offering retailers awide assortment of 100 percentAmerican-made products ideal formerchandising for Memorial Day, FlagDay, Fourth of July, or every day,building sales throughout the year. Withmore than 30 SKUs, the line appeals toconsumers who feel good aboutsupporting American-made products.The mills are identified with a red, whiteand blue “Made in the USA” ribbon. Allmills feature the exclusive WilliamBounds three-step adjustment ring fora fine, medium or coarse grind. Tomaximize fresh flavor, the proprietaryWilliam Bounds milling mechanismcrushes rather than grinds ingredients,releasing the full flavor of the spice.The design features no interlockingparts, so the mill will not jam or wearout. The mills offer versatility anddurability for use in the kitchen, at thetable and at the grill.Suggested Retail Price: $15-36

William Bounds[tel] 800.473.0504www.wmboundsltd.com

AMERICAN FEITIAN ROOSTER BOWLThis Rooster Bowl from American FeiTianis completely hand-blown and fusedwith colorful barnyard hues. It providesthe perfect place for napkins,sweeteners, utensils or any other itemsyou choose. America FeiTian is theAmerican division of Liao Yang FeiTian,China’s largest manufacturer ofhandcrafted glass gifts and decorativeaccessories. The company has beendistributing glassware in the UnitedStates since 2002. With more than 2,000employees, the factory produces awide range of items, including glassflowers, vases, plates, bowls,candleholders and glass figurines. Allof the company’s items are proudlyblown by highly skilled craftsmen withyears of glass-making experience.Teams of designers in China, Europeand the United States scour themarkets in a constant search for thelatest trends and colors. This ensuresthat AFT’s products will appeal to themost discriminating consumerpreferences in home décor. And,because they are the manufacturer,they are able to offer products at pricesthat reflect an incredible value. AFTalso collaborates with other glassfactories in China. As a result, they areable to address the needs of manycustomers regarding all types ofglassware products.Suggested Retail Price: $29.95

American FeiTian[tel] 909.987.6354www.aftglassware.com

Following positive response to theunveiling of new Rachael Ray and PaulaDeen Tabletop Collections at both the2011 International Home + HousewaresShow in Chicago and at the recent NewYork Tabletop Market in October, MeyerCorp., U.S., has signed a multiyear leasefor its Forty-One Madison 3,000-plussquare-foot showroom (suite 1701).

In addition, Meyer has appointed veterantabletop executive Helene Branisel asDirector of Sales in Tabletop, a newlycreated position.

“We’re delighted to solidly move forwardin the new year with permanent showroomspace at the most prestigious address for the tabletop industry, and to welcome Helene, a highly skilled tabletopsales executive to our newly formedtabletop division,” says Suzanne

Murphy, Vice President of Marketing atMeyer Corp., U.S.

“Our beautiful and professionally designedshowroom will be a focal point forintroducing new Rachael Ray and Paula Deen collections at each TabletopShow in 2012 and beyond, and Helene’sindustry expertise and leadership will ensure our success in quicklyestablishing market share for our twocoveted celebrity brands.”

Before joining Meyer, Branisel was National Accounts Manager at Fitz& Floyd for 13 years, where herresponsibilities covered sales for all retail channels and management of the tabletop company’s sales force.Branisel reports to Darrin Johnston,Senior Vice President of Sales at MeyerCorporation, U.S.

Meyer Dedicates Resources to New Tabletop Division

BODUM DOUBLE WALL GLASSESIndividually mouth-blown by expertartisans, the proprietary Bodum DoubleWall Glasses feature two walls ofbreathable glass with air in between,creating a highly effective layer ofinsulation. The result? This innovativedrinkware keeps hot drinks hot withoutburning the user’s fingers and colddrinks cold without the messycondensation. The Double Wall Glassesare the perfect vessels for beer,cocktails, cold drinks and desserts aswell as coffee, tea, hot cocoa and anyhot beverage, forever eliminating theneed for a coaster. It is a stronger yetlighter, high-quality glass. Due to theproperties of borosilicate glass, theDouble Wall Glasses are temperatureresistant, scratch-resistant anddishwasher safe. In addition, theseglasses will not cloud or become dullover time, even after 1,000 dishwashercycles. Suggested Retail Price: $15-25 apiece;$30-40 set

Bodumwww.bodum.com

DESIGN HOUSE STOCKHOLM BAMBOOBamboo is a grass. Bamboo is fantastic.This rapid-growing grass has providedfood and building materials for peoplefor thousands of years. Bamboo isimpact resistant; it is rigid and can be cutinto. Design House Stockholm haschosen to translate some of its earlierproducts using this laminated naturalmaterial: Pick Up, Stig Ahlström’scombined servers and chop sticks;David Mayhew’s serving set Whale Tongs,which are held together by a magnet;Tray, Rolf Sinnemark’s nest of trays; and Umbra, Signe Persson-Melin’s salad servers. Deisgn House Stockholmgot so keen on bamboo that it let acouple of earlier products be born againusing the new material: Chop, UllaChristansson’s chopping boards andHot Pot, serving mats by Åsa McCormacthat can be unfolded or folded up to suitone’s needs. The bamboo collection willexpand with several new members inthe next few years.

Design House Stockholm Inc.[tel] 845.731.9566www.designhousestockholm.com

TABLETOP www.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW16

ONEIDA CHEF'S TABLE CHIP AND DIPOneida's popular Chef's Tablecollection has eight new pieces,which were debuted at theInternational Home + HousewaresShow, including a 14" Chip and Diptray. Launched two years ago to anenthusiastic reception at retail, theOneida Chef’s Table collection offers the pristine look of bone chinawith the stronger durability ofporcelain. As with the rest of thecollection, the Chip and Dip traycomes with a three-year no-chipwarranty, “restaurant rolled edge”and “fingertouch grip” that ensuresit will stand up to everyday use. Suggested Retail Price: $24.99

Robinson Home Productswww.robinsonus.com

INTRADA SIENAIntrada’s Siena collection offersauthentic Italian centerpieces andfooted bowls, which create an eye-catching attraction to any home orevent. Each Intrada piece is 100percent handmade and handpainted in Italy by master Italianartisans whose skills have beenpassed down for generations. Thecollection features various sizes and shapes.Suggested Retail Price: $200-560

Intrada[tel] 800.752.7576www.IntradaItaly.com

BIRDKAGE MADISON APRONS, TEA TOWELSAmong Birdkage's collection of bib, A-line and vintage aprons with matchingtea towels is Madison—100 percentmulticolored floral printed cottoncanvas with metal “sail cloth”grommets. The aprons are great forwearing in the kitchen, at the BBQ grill,in the garden or even for crafts suchas scrapbooking.Suggested Retail Price: $22-55

Birdkage[tel] 917.655.0833www.birdkagestyle.com

BLUE CRAB BAY CO. STONEWARE Blue Crab Stoneware by Dovis Designs,distributed exclusively by Blue CrabBay Co., are original designs of Eastern Shore artisan José Dovis, whoalso created the Blue Crab Bay Co.logo in 1985. All items prominentlyfeature a hand-painted blue crab, the quintessential gem of a coastalVirginia location. All are microwave-and dishwasher-safe as well as lead-free. The line focuses on kitchenware,dinnerware and serveware.Kitchenware items include a deepmixing bowl, canister, utensil holder,spoon rest and trivet. Dinnerwarepieces include: dinner plate, saladplate, pasta bowl ,mug, soup/chowderbowl, dessert/bread plate and cerealbowl. Serveware includes: round platter,oval platter, large pitcher, sugar jar,cream pitcher, tureen/casserole,serving bowl, condiment dish, salt-and-pepper set and seasoning shaker.

Blue Crab Bay Co.[tel] 757.787.3602 Ext. 104visit www.baybeyond.net

SILLY SOULS MILK JUNKIENew this year from Silly Souls is theMilk Junkie melamine kids dinnerset. Each set includes five pieces—plate, bowl, cup, spoon and fork—ina gift box.Suggested Retail Price: $22 ($11 wholesale)

Silly Souls LLC[tel] 415.615.0397www.sillysouls.com

MOSO BAMBOOWARE Pandas everywhere will rejoice at thelaunch of the new Moso BamboowareCollection, which was shown at the2012 International Home + HousewaresShow by Robinson Home Products.Named for one of the few species ofbamboo that pandas don’t eat, Mososustainable kitchen tools augment itsattractive two-toned design with a giftthat gives back: Robinson will donateabout 4 percent from the sale of eachMoso item to the renowned WorldWildlife Fund. All Moso utensils are safeto use with non-stick cookware, andthe use of Moso bamboo to craft thiscollection was strategically selected fordurability. The Bowl and Salad ServerSet feature gently scalloped edge detailand offer a generous 5-quart capacity.The servers are 11½" in size. Productdevelopment to further expand theMoso collection is under way. Suggested Retail Price: $39.99 (bowl)$9.99 (server set)

Robinson Home Productswww.robinsonus.com

HAMPTON SILVERSMITHS STITCHED FLATWAREHampton, a leader in innovativeflatware, cutlery, barware and kitchensolutions, debuts the stunningHampton Silversmiths Stitchedflatware design. Stitched displays adecorative cross-stitched embossedpattern that creates movement upthe center of the handle tocomplement both table and linens.The flatware is made of 18/0 stainlesssteel, which is particularly resistant tocorrosion and rusting; available inall mirror, or frosted and mirror finish;and dishwasher safe with a limitedlifetime warranty.

Hampton Forgewww.hamptonforge.com

MARKETWATCHwww.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 17

Marketwatch17

HOUSEWARES(Cont. from Page 1)

anniversary of the devastating Japaneseearthquake and tsunami. The Japanesegovernment has launched a program tohelp the three most affected regions—Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushimaprefectures—by easing the way forcompanies to come to significant tradeshows such as IH+HS.

“What we hope will happen is that wesupport them now and next year, they willbe able to come themselves,” said ShingoNagai, Director of Business Developmentand PR for the Japan External Trade Organization.

Some of the designers were able to makeit to the IH+HS show, though otherschose to be closer to home on March 11,the anniversary date. Masanori Kiriharabrought his iPod/iPhone docks andexplained through an interpreter that hewas inspired by the timeless beauty ofJapanese tea ceremony dishware.

“One hundred years into the future,somebody may not know what these arefor, but as an object, they might be curiousand find them attractive,” Kirihara said.“I’m hoping people in the future will havea feel for these and think that they havecaptured some beauty as with the Japanesetea ceremony.”

There was no shortage of celebrity chefsat this year’s IH+HS, from Paula Deen toGuy Fieri to charming Aussie chef CurtisStone, who debuted his new cookwareline and could be seen on the show floorin the waning hours tirelessly promotinghis Curtis Stone Kitchen Solutions.

Chef David Burke’s cutlery line wasinspired by and named after his fourrestaurants. The cutlery line was createdin part because customers kept swipingsteak knifes at Primehouse. Kitchenwareby David Burke includes the same style ofsteak knives used in Primehouse and nowaiter will be docked when you take theknives home.

Bravo’s “Top Chefs” were well representedby Fabio Viviani, Stephanie Izard and thepersonable Voltaggio brothers, whodemonstrated Fissler’s redesignedVitaquick pressure cooker in severaldemonstrations throughout the show.

“It ’s the one, most-used piece ofequipment in my kitchen,” Bryan

Voltaggio said.

“We have a game in the kitchen,” addedMichael Voltaggio, grinning. “‘What canwe put in the pressure cooker next?’”

Fissler was intrigued by the Voltaggios’ useof pressure cookers in their restaurants,

and jumped in when the companyheard the cookers were beingdiscarded after three months whenthey were worn out.

“The good news about theVitaquick is that it will last,” saidBryan Voltaggio, who makes“CLT” (Chicken, Lettuce andTomato) sandwiches in one of hisrestaurants from chicken skincooked in a Vitaquick then oven-dried crisp like bacon.

Alessio Alessi, CEO of Alessi USA,brought the iconic Italian manufacturer’snewest lines to IH+HS, including GuidoVenturini’s playful All-Time cutlery invivid colors.

“It begins with a love of food,” Alessi saidof his family’s devotion since 1921 to bring

innovative and inspired design to thehousewares marketplace. “You can’t inventanything new, but you begin with traditionand you take it into the future.”

The IH+HS show also could be fertileground for inspiration as well, even in thesimple act of a visitor carrying a waterbottle along during a meeting with Alessi.

“We should have a water bottle!” Alessi remarked, perhaps sparking another journey.

EMSA BY FRIELING SAMBA QUICK-PRESS CARAFEEmsa by Frieling's popular Samba Carafe with its Quick-Press closure, now comesin eight new vibrant, translucent fashion colors: raspberry, light yellow, tansparentwhite, green, light green, orange, eggplant and lavendar. SRP: $25.50

Frielingwww.frieling.com

MARKETWATCH www.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW18

Marketwatch

PREPARA ROASTING LAURELBend the Laurel to any position to makesure your roast isn't sticking to thebottom of your pan or soaking up thegrease. The heat-resistant, siliconeLaurel also can be used as a trivel andis pretty enough to decorate yourkitchen, too. Suggested Retail Price: $24.99

Preparawww.prepara.com

REVOL FROISSÉSJust in time for the 2012 Olympics,Revol, the top manufacturer of Frenchculinary-grade porcelain, expands itspopular crumpled cup collectiion toinclude a patriotic “Country Collection”as well as other designer colors. Suggested Retail Price: $12.99-99.99

Revolwww.revol-porcelaine.fr

EVRIHOLDER HOT DOG SLIC’RThe Hot Dog SLic’R™ creates bite-size pieces for picky eaters with asimple push and, with the “doggiebowl” for condiments, makes goodeating kids’ play. Suggested Retail Price: $5.99

Evriholderwww.evriholder.com

WARING PRO SNOW CONE MAKERThe new Waring Pro Professional 80Watt Snow Cone Maker can shaveenough for up to five cones in less thana minute using stainless steel cuttingblades. It includes two fold-down coneholders for storage and comes withfour BPA-free reusable cones and 12paper cones. Waring Prowww.waringpro.com

BODUM SANTOS VACUUM COFFEE MAKERFirst introduced in the late 1950s, theSantos returns with a newly designedTableside Gas Burner & Stand, has a 34 ounce capacity and features anestimated brewing time ranging fromfive to 11 minutes (entertainment valueimmeasurable).

Bodumwww.bodum.com

YOUCOPIA CHEF'S EDITION SPICESTACKConsumers demanded more spicestorage and YouCopia delivers with theChef's Edition SpiceStack, which holds30 full sizes or 60 half sizes of spicebottles—the largest capacity spiceorganizer on the market yet it still fits inall standard-sized kitchen cabinets. Suggested Retail Price: $29.99

YouCopiawww.youcopia.com

BISBELL MAGMATESThe new Bisbell Magmates line ofblade guards and knife racks,designed in the U.K., is now availablein North America through Fissler. TheMagmates, which come in bold colors,keep knifes handy yet safe.

Bisbellwww.bisbellmagnets.com

NOGENT EXPERT RANGE CHEF'S KNIFEWith 90 years of experience andtradition behind it, iconic French cutlery maker Nogent debuts a chef's knife to its Expert Range thatincludes the company's microserrationtechnology—the Affidenté cutting finishthat never needs sharpening.Suggested Retail Price: $60

Nogentwww.nogent3etoiles.com

HUROM SLOW JUICERThe classic white Hurom Slow Juicerhas been such a hit that the companyis adding two updated styles in metallicblack with silver accents and silver withblack accents and a stylish newsmokey gray strainer along with newpackaging designed for an enhancedin-store experience and a newcookbook, “100 Gourmet Recipes forthe Slow Juicer.”

Huromwww.slowjuicer.com

With more than 2,100 exhibitors at the 2012 International Home + Housewares Show inChicago, there were hundreds of new products to see. Here are a few that caught our eye:

FISSLER VITAQUICKBuilding on the pressure-cooker craze,Fissler has redesigned its Vitaquick tosuit modern needs with a sleeker,conical shape that allows for stackingin storage; polished stainless steelexteriors; blue pressure indicator; cool-to-the-touch handles; four deepcookers and two sizes in the uniqueskillet shape; an audible lockingindicator and more.

Fisslerwww.fisslerusa.com

ISI TWIST ‘N SPARKLE DIRECT CARBONATION SYSTEMThe Twist ‘n Sparklecarbonator is designed toturn ordinary beverages intosodas—and you knoweverything's healthful whenyou're the one controllingthe ingredients, fromcranberry juice to coffee towater. Comes with areusable, sparking want;three Sparklets CO2 sodachargers, replaceable capand recipe booklet. Suggested Retail Price: $49.95

ISIwww.twistnsparkle.com

SPECIAL FEATUREwww.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 19

Special Feature2012 SFIGF(Cont. from Page 1)

President, Urban Expositions. “We’veworked to bring back vendors who had leftover the years, added new lines andcategories like our new Tabletop, Gourmet& Housewares section,significantly expanded ourmarketing outreach, and areplanning even more newinitiatives and promotionsthat promise to keep themomentum going.”

Among the newestinitiatives was the debut of the Tabletop, Gourmet & Housewares sectionfeaturing cookware/bakeware, kitchen gadgets,specialty food, small electricsand tabletop accessories. In addition to expanding this category’s offerings on the show floor, Urban Expositions also built anumber of events and programs aroundthe section. Among them, Urbanexpanded its full-scale show seminar seriesto include a special program for wineriesled by Beverly Armstrong on theeffectiveness of merchandise sales in awinery tasting room. Special guestappearances and cookbook signings byleading bay area chefs were also part of theline up with Andrea Froncillo of TheFranciscan Crab Restaurant, The StinkingRose, Bobo's, The Dead Fish, Calzonesand Crab House at Pier 39 and MitchRosenthal of Town Hall, Salt House andAnchor & Hope.

“This show has far exceeded ourexpectations,” said Tabletop, Gourmet &Housewares exhibitor Michael Raffetto,The Lundgren Group. “We’ve opened anumber of new accounts.”

In addition to the new Tabletop, Gourmet& Housewares section, the UrbanExpositions sales team has continued

to expand the exhibitor base with each successive show. The February 2012 edition brought together close to700 companies representing thousands of lines conveniently categorized in 11 product sectors on the show floor. In addition to the new Tabletop, Gourmet& Housewares section, buyers could

also explore offeringsin Gifts &Collectibles, WorldStyle Handcrafted,Museum, VillageArts, Design, Home& Garden,Handcrafted,Personal Style,Vintage Collectionand Treasures to Go.

From specialty anddepartment stores towineries, resorts, andchain stores tobuying groups and

associations including the Museum StoresAssociation, California Association ofHospitals and Health Systems and theFrontier Duty Free Association, thenumbers and types of buyers attending

the show keep growing. And,feedback from these retailers wasoverwhelmingly positive about theselection and size of the February2012 show’s exhibitor base.

“The San Francisco InternationalGift Fair just keeps getting betterwith each successive show,attracting more and more high-quality vendors,” said Jeri Webb,The Field Museum, Chicago. “Anumber of my regular vendorshave started showing here, too, and theyare loving it.”

“The quality of merchandise was the bestI have seen in many years,” added GayeScott, Virginia Mason Gift Shop, Seattle.

“I’m very impressed by the depth anddiversity of the lines on display at the SanFrancisco International Gift Fair,” saidAnn Conlin, Connor Hotel Shop, Jerome,Ariz. “We found fun and exciting newlines and enjoyed placing orders with ourcurrent vendors, too. I can’t wait to seewhat’s on offer this summer.”

Looking forward, Urban Expositions has

already begun working on programs andpromotions for the Aug. 4-7 edition. Planscall for further expansion of the newTabletop, Gourmet & Housewares sectionto coincide with the buying season forthis industry; continued growth of theexhibitor roster and show categories; andexpanded marketing efforts and enhancedbuyer service offerings for retailersthroughout the show’s key trading areas ofnorthern California, Oregon, Nevada,Arizona and Utah.

For more information on the San Francisco International Gift Fair, visit www.sfigf.com or call 800.318.2238or 678.285.3976.

BUYERS GUIDE www.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW20

BUYERS GUIDEmetalware

Ashton Sutton Metal Table ClockThe Ashton Sutton Co., manufacturer ofhome decor products, recently introducedits double-sided metal table clock witharrow element, an all metal table clockwith cut-out and hand welded arrow .Thedouble sided clock sits on the top of arevolving stand. The dials have blacknumerals and are easy to read. Requirestwo AA batteries.Suggested Retail Price: $42 (wholesale:$17.50)

Ashton Sutton Co.[tel] 413.743.1260www.ashtonsutton.com

Basic Spirit Measuring Spoons

This rooster measuring spoon set has beenhand-crafted with fine pewter in NovaScotia, Canada. These sets are available inmany different designs and come giftboxed. Ten percent of the profits fundcharitable projects. Suggested Retail Price: $52

Basic Spirit[tel] 877.245.3821www.basicspirit.com

Home Wet Bar Ultimate Lighted Grill Tongs

An illuminating idea, the Ultimate LightedGrill Tongs from Home Wet Bar lighted grilltongs make grilling or barbecuing at nighteasy as day. These BBQ grill tongs featurea cleverly designed removable ledflashlight that lights up food on the grill.They lock closed for easy storage, are agenerous 20 inches long so grill mastersdo not burn their hands, and feature sturdysteel arms that will not buckle, insulatedhigh temperature handles with deluxecontoured grips, and a handy grill hangingloop. Additionally, the flashlight removesquickly allowing easy cleaning in thedishwasher. Tongs are one of the mostimportant tools a grill master owns, andwith these tongs, he or she will have thegrasp, protection, and the light needed toget the job done right! Suggested Retail Price: $19.99

Home Wet Barwww.homewetbar.com

Kuhn Rikon Pineapple Knife Colori

Kuhn Rikon brings the spirit of hospitality tothe kitchen with the colorful, stylish and funPineapple Knife Colori. In the tradition ofKuhn Rikon’s highly functional specialtyknives, this durable 8-inch knife makespreparing pineapple slices and cubesquick and easy. Its sturdy, serrated nonstickJapanese carbon steel blade slicespineapples easily and the blade featuresa pineapple cutout design that helpsprevent sticking. The green plastic handleis ergonomically designed for either left- orright-handed use, and provides maximumcomfort and leverage for cutting throughthe tough skin of a pineapple, and easeof maneuverability when slicing throughthe flesh of the fruit. This versatile knife can also be used to cut through cakesand large desserts, homemade breadsand tough-skinned vegetables. The sharp serrated edge slices through toughfruit and vegetable skin or bread crustwith the slightest bit of pressure and thestainless steel blade stays sharper longer. The Pineapple Knife Colori comeswith a safety sheath, with decorativecutouts, to protect the knife during storageand transport. The Pineapple Knife andprotective sheath are both dishwashersafe for easy cleanup.Suggested Retail Price: $25

Kuhn Rikonwww.kuhnrikon.com

Artistique Design Food ServerFrom the Glitter Collection comes an 11" x3¼" food server that is nickel plated withsilver glitter designed handle. Made to lasta lifetime, it is nontarnishable anddishwasher safe, too. Great for serving rice,brownies, fish, potatoes and almost everyfood. It is an elegant and fashionable wayto serve food.Suggested Retail Price: $39.99

Artistique Design[te] 877.744.2785www.artistique5.com

GIFTWARE 21

Giftwarewww.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

tea time

BY LORRIE BAUMANN

Many a shop that's using tea accessoriesas an ancillary profit center is primarily arestaurant, florist or hospital gift shop.What you'll sell them depends on howyou brought them into the store.

LaDonna Olmstead, Co-Owner of TeaMadame Tea Shop in Sumner, Wash., isprimarily a loose-leaf tea merchant.Customers come into her 450-square-footshop looking for high-quality tea. Theymay add items with which to serve the teato their order while they're there,especially around Christmas, Mother'sDay and Easter, when there's a seasonalbump in the demand for beautiful tea setsintended as gifts.

Most of Mary Jane Fay's customers at MyGrandmother's Teapot in Adamsville, Pa.,come in for afternoon tea, often a

traditional cream tea with scones orsandwiches. In the seven years she's beenin business in her rural community, shesays, “We found out a long time ago thatthe money is not in the tea; it's in the retailshop.” She carries products made in theBritish Isles and the U.S., includingteapots, tea cups and mugs, scoops, teacaddies, and infusers, in addition to teasblended for Welsh tastes and a variety ofbooks that celebrate tea and its traditions.

Of the teapots she sells, the most popularare the simple Brown Betty clay pots—shesays most of her customers have at leastone. “They're kind of a staple. They'renot as pretty, but they keep your tea hotlonger,” she says.

Giftware wholesaler Burton & Burton ofBogart, Ga., sells teapots to a lot of floristsand hospital gift shops. “In a lot of towns,

The Cup That Cheers Giftware Retailersthe hospital gift shop is the only gift shopin town, so for the customer interested inbuying teapots, it's a one-stop source,”says Burton & Burton Media andCommunications Manager Steve Rose.Teapots with nature themes are sellingvery well. Floral-motif teapots do verywell in floral shops, and teapots thatfeature butterflies do very well indeed. Areplica of a tea set from the Vanderbiltfamily's Biltmore House is also sellingexceptionally well right now, Rose says.

Anna Marie's Teas is part of a complexthat includes a tea shop and venue forprivate tea parties, gift counter and bedand breakfast in Liberty, Mo. OwnerBrenda Hedrick sells filters, spoons,canisters, tea cabinets, teapots, tea cozies,electric filtering tea pots and evensamovars. Some of her customers buylemon curd, scone mix and note cards to

pop into a gift basket with a packet ofloose-leaf tea. Her retail prices for tea-related merchandise range from a coupleof dollars up to a few hundred dollars fora samovar.

Over the past two to three years, Hedrickhas seen a lot of interest in macha, groundgreen tea whisked into hot water anddrunk as part of the traditional Japanesetea ceremony. She sells the tea, bamboowhisks, mixing bowls and clay cups inwhich the tea is served. That tea traditionhas, as has so much else, been dealt a blowby the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plantdisaster. That accident contaminated teagrown in Japan, and Hedrick, among otherU.S. retailers, has had to find other sources.She can still buy tea from a few importerswith stocks of the macha that were sealedbefore the accident, but once that supplyis gone, she'll be obtaining the green teafrom plantations in India, China and otherplaces that aren't Japan. “There will benothing from Japan after the accident,”she says. “It breaks our hearts.”

HIGHWAVE TEAFISH/BREWFISH Brewfish is a patented tea infusionbrewing and drinking design. Brewfishuses the entire glass for infusion. Theinnovation simply shuts off the teabrewing 100 percent when you pressto drink. The new TEAfish design featuresthe hand/mouth blown verticalmodern tea statement and unique isthe single-wall drinking on the doublewall body to keep it hot much longer.Brewfish 2 filter has a flower edgedesign on a drink-through top tomaximize the heat retention with its360 no-look drinking. Stir in very fine orbulk leaf tea, let it steep with filter on topand add any sugar or honey justbefore you press. When done, removefilter and add hot water again for onemore time. Comes in 16 oz./473 ml.

Highwave Inc.[tel] 800.444.4928www.highwave.com

XTREMA BY CERAMCORXtrema by Ceramcor’s line of 100percent ceramic teaware is sustainablymade from natural minerals derivedfrom the Earth’s crust and neverleaches any metal or chemicals intothe tea brewed in it. Simply put, Xtremaproduces healthier and better-tastingtea that maintains its ingredients’ trueflavor. Lighter than competing teaware,Xtrema is surfaced with a revolutionaryadvanced, 100 percent ceramic glazeon the inside and outside that willnever emit gas or toxins at anytemperature and will never peel orflake. The non-scratch, easy-to-cleanXtrema ceramic surface providesadditional protection from theformation of bacteria and helps keepeach piece looking brand new, yearafter year. Unlike metal tea andporcelain pots, there is never a concernfor damage or meltdown of Xtremateaware should the Xtrema productever accidentally boil dry after beingleft on a heating element for anextended period of time. This alsoreduces the risk of stove damage anda potential fire. Further, Xtrema retainsheat longer than most traditional teapots, so liquids heated in Xtrema stayhot longer when served. Suggested Retail Price: $89.99

Ceramcorwww.ceramcor.com

WILLIAM BOUNDS SILI GOURMET TEA BALLWilliam Bounds Ltd. presents its popularand easy-to-use Sili Gourmet Tea Ball inEggplant, the latest fashion color thatadds drama and style to tea brewing.This handy tea infuser combinesstainless steel and silicone to create theperfect environment for steeping anytype of loose leaf tea without leavingwayward leaves in your cup. The smallholes in the tea ball prevent loose-leaftea from escaping the ball duringinfusion and depositing in your cup. Asilicone cap makes it easy to fill and toclose securely. A sturdy, brushedstainless steel handle extends above,never slipping into the brewed tea. Astay-cool silicone teardrop at the topof the handle makes it easy to graspto remove from the cup or teapot.Once steeping is complete, the teaball can be placed on the siliconedrip tray, which has a small lip toprevent any residual liquid fromdripping and staining the counter ortable. Easy to clean, it can be rinsed byhand or placed in the dishwasher.Comes in 12-piece CDU withassortment of eggplant, blue, greenand orange.Suggested Retail Price: $9.99

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

JURA ENA MICRO 1The newest addition to Jura’s award-winning line of advanced automaticcoffee centers, the ENA Micro 1 is anultra-compact, one-cup espressomachine that brews the ultimate inespresso and crema coffee. It fills animportant niche in the U.S. market byoffering a true bean-to-cup experiencewithout frothing options, dramaticallyexpanding the brand’s targetaudience by reaching out to abroader audience. This compact microbrewing unit allows the user toprogram three different cup sizes ofristretto, espresso or coffee, each attwo different aroma levels. It is theworld’s smallest automatic coffeecenter—just 9" wide, 17.5" deep and12.7" high—which is 11 percent smallerthan Jura’s ENA model that previouslyheld that distinction. The ENA Micro 1is Jura’s first machine equipped with abean container cover with an aromapreservation seal to keep coffee beansfresh and flavorful. Suggested Retail Price: $899 (avialablefor shipment in October)

Jura Capressowww.us.jura.com

GIFTWARE www.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW22

Giftwaretea time

CHABA DECOR COASTLIFE V-COASTERSChaba Decor's Coastlife V-Coasters,which come in a set of fourhandmade in assorted coastal colors,are made from recycled woodsalvaged from old houses and boatsin Thailand. Crafted by Thai artisans forfunctionality and style utilizing thecharacteristic v-joint. Versatile, thecoasters can be used as drinkcoasters or as little containers such asfor keeping small jewelry, loosechange, mints or for serving smallfinger food to party guests. The V-coasters are truly a great accent forany table or room because of itsattractive coastal and pastel colorschemes. Each coaster measures 4" by 4" and 0.75" deep.

Chaba Decor[tel] 562.320.0298www.chabadecor.com

RED POMEGRANATE PANSY CANAPE PLATERed Pomegranate is hand-gilded, food-safe tableware. Red Pomegranate ishand gilded with gold silver or copperlayered with pigment to createbeautiful high-end designs withfunction, yet priced for every retailer'sbudget. New for the 2012 season is the6.5" Pansy Canape Plate in assortedcolors and gift-box set.Suggested Retail Price: $67.50 for set offour ($27 wholesale)

Red Pomegranate [tel] 650.728.5613 www.redpomegranate.net

BABYCAKES SMALL BAKING APPLIANCESBabycakes’ line of small bakingappliances are perfect for makinghomemade sweets in no time.Babycakes makes it easier than ever forhostesses to create gourmet treats toimpress their guests with minimal kitchentime. Whether it’s trendy cake pops foran afternoon tea, bridal shower dessert,individual quiches for Easter brunch orhomemade donuts for a mom-to-be,Babycakes has an option for alloccasions. Each appliance comes withall the necessary tools for baking anddecorating, as well as suggested recipes. Suggested Retail Price: $24.99 (CakePop Maker)

Babycakeswww.thebabycakesshop.com

ROYAL COPENHAGEN BLUE FLUTED MEGA FOOTED BOWLIt took a visionary young artist to takeon the legendary Blue Fluted designand twist it. With a love for the classic,hand-painted service and thecourage to modernize it, KarenKjældgaard-Larsen was the one todo it—and do it well. Since itsintroduction, Blue Fluted Mega hasbecome a neo-classic, updatingwhile still honouring the 1775 design.Royal Copenhagen's new Blue FlutedMega Footed Bowl is a beautifulaccessory for any table setting. Thebowl measures 8¼ x 6¼ inches.Suggested Retail Price: $250

Royal Copenhagen[tel] 800.431.1992www.royalcopenhagen.com

EMSA BY FRIELING SAMBA FOR TEAEmsa by Frieling thermal carafesbring a long tradition of beauty andfunctionality to beverage serveware.This spring a thermal carafe expresslymade for tea is added to the productgroup: Samba for Tea. Each thermalcarafe comes with a durable, BPAfree, infuser for steeping tea. It steepsthe tea and keeps it fresh and hot forhours. Samba for Tea will be availablein four gorgeous translucent colors:red, green, orange and white. TheSamba for Tea features the Quick-Press closure. To open and close thecarafe, simply press the button in thecenter of the lid. When closed, thecarafe is 100 percent leak-proof,excellent for keeping beverageseither hot or cold (think ice tea) forup to 16 hours. The drip-free spoutand comfortable handle provide foreffortless pouring. Made in Germany,the Samba for Tea Quick-Press holds34 fl. oz. and comes with a three-year warranty. Suggested Retail Price: $34.99

Frielingwww.frieling.com

CHANTAL ANNIVERSARYTEAKETTLEChantal is commemorating its 40thyear in business with an elegant newteakettle, available in four excitingcolors: Sea Blue, Orange, Chili Redand Canary Yellow. Chantal haspartnered with Celestial Seasoningsfor this extra-special teakettle. EachAnniversary Teakettle includes 12 freetea bags and a $1 off coupon fromCelestial Seasonings. Suggested Retail Price: $39.99

Chantalwww.chantal.com

UPCOMING EVENTS

Trade Show Buzz

APRIL 201217-20 New York Tabletop MarketNew York Showrooms, 41 Madison,

7 West 34th, 230 Fifth Ave.New York, NY, 212.686.1203,212.279.6063, 800.698.5617

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

20-22 National Stationery ShowJacob K. Javits Convention CenterNew York, NY, 800.272.SHOW

www.nationalstationeryshow.com

21-26 International HomeFurnishings Market

High Point, NC, 336.869.1000www.ihfc.com

24-26 The Kitchen & Bath Industry ShowMcCormick Place

Chicago, IL, 312.791.7000www.kbis.com

MAY 201219-22 International Contemporary

Furniture FairJacob K. Javits Convention CenterNew York, NY, 800.272.SHOW

www.icff.com

JUNE 20121-4 Kansas City Gift ShowGift Mart of Kansas City

Kansas City, KS, 913.687.8059www.giftmartofkansascity.com

10-11 Market Square’s The Buyers Cash & Carry

Greater Philadelphia Expo CenterOaks, PA, 717.796.2377

www.marketsquareshows.com

11-13 NEOCON World’s Trade FairThe Merchandise Mart

Chicago, IL, 800.677.6278www.neocon.com

12-14 Licensing International ExpoMandalay Bay Convention CenterLas Vegas, NV, 310.857.7620www.licensingexpo.com

17-19 Summer Fancy Food ShowWalter E.Washington Convention Center

Washington, DC, 212.482.6440www.specialtyfood.com

Wednesday’s keynote address at thegeneral session on May 2 at United Fresh2012, The Produce Show in Dallas. Bushwill share her perspectives on her lifeexperiences and thoughts on how tomaintain a positive outlook and provideleadership in turbulent times. The UnitedFresh 2012 Show runs May 1-3.

Former President Bill Clinton will share hisunique perspectives and insights into hispresidency as well as his work with theWilliam J. Clinton Foundation at his keynoteaddress at The National RestaurantAssociation Restaurant, Hotel-Motel Show(The NRA Show). This show runs fromMay 5-8. The NRA Show will also havethree of Bravo’s “Top Chef ” reality show’sbiggest celebrities—Richard Blais, SpikeMendelsohn and Fabio Viviani—showcasingtheir culinary expertise to help raise funds forthe National Restaurant AssociationEducational Foundation’s Prostart program.The celebrity chefs will host the secondannual Restaurants Rock party held onSunday, May 6. Watch for the chefs on theshow floor, where they’ll conduct demos inthe World Culinary Showcase.

The 2012 Sweeets & Snacks Expo®,happening May 8-10, at McCormick Place,Chicago, offers morning sessions with well-known, world-class presenters: politicalpundits James Carville and Mary Matalin,NPD’s leading food trends expert HarryBalzer, former CNBC economist MarciRossell and business guru Dan Heath.

Newest Trends – Nutrition NewsOne of the hottest trends in the restaurantand foodservice industries is children’snutrition. In keeping abreast of changeand trends, both United Fresh Foundation

BY MIMI VILLAFANE

Spring is in the air. Spring brings warmerweather, fragrant flowers, luscious fruitsand the urge to get outside to play.Gourmet foods, fresh produce andtantalizing treats are just a sampling of thetastes, and interesting keynote speeches,restaurant rock party and innovativeprograms and pavilions are a few places toplay at the shows in May. So, go ahead,play and get a little taste of spring at May’sshows.

Special Guest Speakers May’s shows bring big news and bignames. Political powerhouse personalitiesand reality-show celebrities alike bringexcitement as they share their experiencesand talents at the shows you’re attending,or wish you were attending!

Former First Lady Laura Bush will present

and the NRA are right on track. TheUnited Fresh Foundation and producecompany partners have joined forces tomake fresh, healthy salad bars a reality inTexas schools by setting a goal to donate100 salad bars. They are asking industrycolleagues to join in the charitablecommitment and to sponsor a salad bar;the cost is $2,500. On May 1, UnitedFresh will host a press conference toannounce the donation of salad bars toDallas-area schools; sponsors will berecognizes there and at the United Fresh2012 Opening General Session.Sponsoring companies will be featuredprominently at the convention and on theUnited Fresh and Let’s Move Salad Barsto Schools websites.

The NRA is also doing its part to increaseawareness and highlight healthier choicesfor children’s nutrition by launching aHealthier Kids Fare pavilion at the 2012NRA Show. This special area in theexhibit hall offers members and showattendees a range of nutritious food andbeverage products to help developdelicious and healthy children’s menus. Inaddition, the NRA launched a programthis summer, the Kids Live Well program.To participate, restaurants must providechildren’s menu items that meet specificand strict nutrition guidelines. Dozens ofrestaurant companies with thousands oflocations nationwide have joined the KidsLive Well program. Kids Live Well will befeatured at the NRA Show, booth #6300.

Awards for Innovation—Tastes, Tools and TechnologyCreativity and innovation are valued andprized in any industry—gourmet foodsand kitchenware included. Awardprograms exist to honor and encouragethese individuals (and companies) for theiringenuity, commitment and their pursuitof excellence. The following awards will beshowcased at these shows:

C A L E N D A RTRADESHOW

NRA's 2012 Kitchen Innovation Awards,which recognizes cutting-edge kitchenequipment in the foodservice market.Award recipients, selected by anindependent panel of industry experts,will be showcased in the interactivekitchen Innovations Pavilion in the newcentral location on the exhibit floor at the2012 NRA Show.

The recipients of the inaugural OperatorInnovations Awards also will beannounced at the NRA Show. Thewinners, selected by an independent panelof judges, will be recognized as leaderswho transform the industry with theircreativity and commitment. Winners willbe chosen in five distinct categories:Technology Applications, Sustainability,Menu Development, Food Safety andHealth & Nutrition.

The rebranded “Most Innovative NewProduct Awards” will be presented at the2012 Sweets & Snacks Expo. Nominees’products are taste-tested by a panel ofindustry experts. Watch as retailers castthe final votes live on the show floor!

What Else is New?United Fresh 2012 offers two specializedlearning centers this year: FreshTech andFresh Marketplace. Featuring interactivediscussions led by industry experts, thesecenters are right on the show floor.

Also, when you register for United Fresh2012, you’re automatically entered intoUnited’s Taste of Dallas giveaway and achance to win gift certificates for dinnerat one of Dallas’ finest restaurants.

Sweets & Snacks has brought backInnovation Alley, a dedicated area on theshow floor, where new-to-the-industry,start-up companies will feature some ofthe most innovative ideas not yet seen inthe marketplace.

Bella Tavola/The Alison Group .....................17

CookPro Inc. ......................................................20

Fire Wire ................................................................9

Franmara..............................................................13

Highwave.............................................................22

LSArts.....................................................................4

Parrish's Cake Decorating Supplies ..................2

Prodyne ..................................................................3

R.S.V.P International ........................................19

Talisman Designs .................................................8

Tokyo Plast International ...................................7

Tribest ..................................................................10

Wilshire Industries LLC ....................................5

ADVERTISER INDEX

www.kitchenwarenews.com � APRIL 2012 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 23

Upcoming Events

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