BY ANA VENNE

The SustainAbility: Design for a BetterWorld® program will be returning to theNYIGF for its fifth year. The programwill feature an exhibit, the Eco ChoiceAwards and seminars about sustainablebusiness practices. Curated by Ilene Shaw of Shaw + Co! Productions, theSustainAbility display will exhibit 165products from 70 companies. All productsfeatured must meet certain criteria in orderto be considered for this exhibit. “NYIGFexhibitors submit product information and

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

Bath and Beauty Gifts Evolving toNourish Body, Mind, Soul and Planet

Continued on Page 27

SPECIAL FEATURE:HOLIDAY UPDATESEE PAGE 9-23

BUYERS GUIDE:SMALL ELECTRICSSEE PAGE 24-25

Continued on Page 26

Continued on Page 30

GIFTWARE:NYIGF/GOURMETHOUSEWARESSEE PAGE 27-29

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

S E RV I NG K I T CH ENWAR E , HOU S EWAR E S AND TA B L E TO P MA RK E T S

photos to me several months in advanceof the show. I consider several factors in selecting products for the display: eco-friendly materials, environmentally-friendly production processes, socially-respectful conditions, and overall corporateresponsibility,” Shaw explains. The exhibitwill be presented August 18-21 in theJacob K. Javits Convention Center’s NorthConnector. �”Every show cycle brings newdiscoveries and developments in the area

BY ANA VENNE

The New York International Gift Fair,running August 18-22, will host about2,800 exhibitors and an expected 35,000buyers from all across the globe. There aremany new additions to the programmingthis year, including the Artisan Resourcetrade show, which hosts 62 companiesrepresenting 18 countries; the new NYIGFbook store, which features gourmet-focused authors; and the HandmadeDesigner Maker division, which focuseson young designers and handmade crafts.The Gourmet Housewares Show will also

The Gourmet Housewares Show Returns to NYIGF

be making its return this year, featuringover 150 exhibitors and educational sessionsfor those in the industry.

Mastrad Inc. is one of the many returningexhibitors to the Gourmet HousewaresShow. Tim Morgan, Executive VicePresident of Sales and Marketing forMastrad, Inc., exhibiting at booth 3562,talks about their new products: “We will beintroducing more complementary items toexpand our existing lines such as bakeware,

BY LUCAS WITMAN

It is a tradition in gift giving that hasfollowed moms, teachers, administrativeassistants and other female friends,acquaintances and coworkers for decades:the soap and spa gift basket. Few womenare likely to say that they have not at onetime received as a gift, cellophane-wrapped containers filled with colorfulfragrant soaps, bath beads and lotions.These pampering packages are truly atimeless mainstay of gift giving. However,even though beauty and personal care gifts

NYIGF Goes “Green” with SustainAbility Exhibit

may be timeless, this does not mean thatthey are not evolving.

Today’s soap and spa gift basket is likely tolook dramatically different from one thatmay have been received for Christmas orMother’s Day even just five or six yearsago. This is due to a growing trend withinthe industry towards health and beauty giftsthat nourish not just the body, but also themind, soul and planet. Contemporary

VOLUME 18, NUMBER 8 AUGUST 2012

NO COOKIE-CUTTER APPROACH...7

PRODUCT REVIEWS...........................8

TRADE SHOW BUZZ..........................31

BEAUTY IS THE BOTTOM LINE ..........30

Courtesy of NASFT

http://www.swissarmy.com

GENERAL NEWSwww.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

With the advent of dozens of newshowrooms, more special events, excitinggrowth and much more, the Dallas MarketCenter announced on June 29, 2012 thatits recent Dallas Total Home & GiftMarket, held June 20-26, was burstingwith energy and inspiration around everycorner. The seven-day show included theDallas International Lighting Market,FINDS Dallas Temp Show, Dallas Holiday& Home Expo and Dallas Hospitality &Contract Design Show.

“The energy level was remarkable as welaunched the summer show cycle,” saidBill Winsor, President and CEO, DallasMarket Center. “Supported by new tech tools such as our App and improvedfree Wi-Fi, buyers from across the countryarrived ready for business. Reviewing more than 275 new showrooms and temps,foot traffic was heavier on the front-endof market but the serious buyers had asteady presence. Although economicchallenges remain, we are seeing evidenceof stronger consumer confidence in themiddle of the country.”

Dozens of new and expanded permanentshowrooms debuted at the market with arange of new resources throughout the 5-million-square-foot campus. TheFINDS Dallas Temp Show categories—Design FINDS, Fashion FINDS and Red Haute FINDS—doubled in size forthis June’s show. Overall, there were morethan 250 new FINDS exhibitors. The unique and on-trend offerings inVintage Home FINDS and French Market FINDS presented products thatcannot be found elsewhere. Foodie FINDSand Table & Houseware FINDS debutedduring the market, complementing the newly renovated and expandedGourmet Market.

Attendance reflected the broadening buyer base attending the market in Dallas.There were the most new stores since 2006 and an increase in buyers from theSouthwest, Mid-America and West. Morethan 100 major stores attended including:1-800-Flowers, Bed Bath & Beyond,Cabela’s, Cost Plus World Market,Dillard’s, Harry & David, Hemispheres,Home Depot, HomeGoods, JCPenney,Jordan’s Furniture, Kohl’s, Marmaxx,NapaStyle, NM Direct/Horchow, One Kings Lane, Pier 1 Imports, RoomsTo Go, Stage Stores, Star Furniture and Von Maur.

While at the show, buyers participated inmore than 140 special events, seminarsand hospitalities and found inspirationthrough more displays throughout the

market. A huge highlight of the show wasrenowned Australian Chef Curtis Stone,who presented a product and cookingdemonstration to more than 500 marketattendees on Saturday at the new CulinaryStage. His line, Kitchen Solutions, isrepresented in Source One Marketing,Trade Mart 1-1949.

“Our showroom had great trafficthroughout market,” said Bill Rogers,President, Source One Marketing. “All ofour lines were well received—especiallythe launch of Curtis Stone’s KitchenSolutions. There was a ton of buzz andexcitement throughout the show.”

“The debut of the Aidan Gray corporateshowroom in Dallas saw one of the top performing shows in the history of the company,” said Derrick Ricketts,National Sales Manager, Aidan Gray. “Our expectations were dramaticallyexceeded. We were packed the entire show with eager customers who could

Surge of Energy and Inspiration this Summer in Dallas

finally see a complete and integrated visionof the brand.”

“The June Lighting Market in Dallas iscritical to building the DVI brand across North America,” said Robert Borg,CEO, DVI Lighting. “Buyers attendingin June are very seriously committed totheir business by choosing to be in Dallastwice a year. This June was the best show ever for DVI in Dallas. Buyers that attended were rolling up their sleevesand getting back to business, which wefound exciting.”

“Dallas is an important market for UMA, and we are thrilled that for theJune show our sales grew nicely over lastsummer,” said David Moses, EVP BusinessDevelopment, UMA Enterprises.

“Dallas is larger than life—we love thecity and the market center,” said VinayGolchha, Cloud 9, Home FINDS. “Weexpanded with great new designer pillowsthat help bring fashion into the home andhad a fantastic show.”

“We’re very pleased with our first time atmarket,” said Judy Hill, JHill Designs.

“Vintage Home FINDS is an outstandingway for buyers to get one-of-a-kind items.Dallas is a first-class show.”

“The greatest thing about this summer’smarket was the customers,” said MarkTarner, South Bend Chocolate Company,Foodie FINDS. “There were lots of them and they were buying—a great recipefor success!”

“Design FINDS was a success for us,” saidMichelle Cox, Olivia Riegel. “The areawas well organized with good visibilityand buyers were excited about the mix ofvendors. We look forward to our nextappearance in Dallas.”

“Congratulations to the Gourmet Market on a great show,” said Gage Meyer,Owner and President, Gage Inc. “Because of excellent vendors, a greatlayout, special events, superior customerservice—the Gourmet Market was adestination for buyers. Dallas is on therise in the gourmet industry!”

For more information about the Dallas Market Center, visitwww.dallasmarketcenter.com.

General News3

GENERAL NEWS4 www.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

Continuing its ongoing efforts to provideengaging and useful kitchen-focused contentfor consumers, luxury appliance brand Jenn-Air recently launched the “Master Class Blog”on masterclassblog.jennair.com. It utilizesthe centralized, sharable Tumblr platform totap a seasoned team of experts to offerinsights on a range of topics that includekitchen design, cooking and entertaining.

“Our goal is to provide culinary, design

and lifestyle inspiration with posts thatrange from personal culinary experiences,like learning to cook the perfect cassoulet,to kitchen design topics like under-standing duct-free ventilation,” notesSenior Manager of Brand Experience forJenn-Air. “It ’s meant to inspire, and tocomplement our current online, socialmedia and smart phone app offerings.”

Other content offered by the brand

includes its Master Class Series of videos,which feature noted designers and chefssharing insights designed to give anunprecedented edge on everything fromthrowing a great dinner party to creatinga beautiful kitchen that reflects your style.

Additionally, a free iPhone app from Jenn-Air, called DesignVision, lets users instantlyvisualize a kitchen equipped with thebrand’s luxury collection by simply selecting

an appliance, positioning it over theircurrent appliance and snapping a photo.The finished image shows the selectedappliance in place of the existing one.

“Whether remodeling an entire kitchenor replacing just one appliance, we knowour consumers are tech savvy and will likelydo research online,” notes Johnson. “Ourgoal is to offer content that makes theprocess more seamless.”

The new appliance recycling program fromPotomac Edison can reduce Marylandcustomers’ energy costs by up to $150 peryear while putting $50 in their pockets whenthey have their old second refrigerators orfreezers hauled away and recycled.

Ruth Bruening of Frederick, Md., had herold refrigerator picked up for recycling. “Onceyou realize how much money you can save, itreally doesn’t make much sense to keep anotherrefrigerator running in the garage,” saidBruening, who was among the first customersto take advantage of the program.

Second refrigerators are often used for overflow,leftovers or beverages. Studies have shown thatrefrigerators and freezers manufactured before1990 can consume three times more electricitythan newer appliances, adding up to $150 per year to a household’s energy costs.

“These units represent a sizeable energyexpense for a household and provide onlylimited use in most homes,” said JimFakult, President of Maryland Operationsfor FirstEnergy. “This is an excellentopportunity for our customers to enjoysubstantial annual savings, and receive a$50 rebate reward.”

At the Bruening home, Potomac Edisonrepresentatives presented Ruth Bruening

with a $50 rebate check, and her oldrefrigerator was hauled away for recycling.Through the recycling process, 95 percentof the old appliance will be beneficiallyreused, and any toxic substances, includingoil or refrigerant, will be disposed ofproperly,�another benefit when comparedto sending an old appliance to a landfill.

Potomac Edison works with JACOEnvironmental, which removes theappliances from residents’ homes. JACOthen transports the units to its recyclingfacility, where the old appliances aredismantled and de-manufactured in anenvironmentally responsible manner.

“There are many ways for people to reducetheir energy consumption and impact onthe environment. Recycling a refrigeratorranks near the top. It works for theenvironment, your wallet and forconserving our precious resources,” saidMichael Dunham, Director of Energy andEnvironmental Programs for JACO.

To schedule a pickup, call 877.270.3521 orvisit www.energysavemd.com. Refrigerator/freezers and freezers are eligible for theprogram, and customers may recycle two unitsper utility account per year. Appliances mustbe in working order with an insidemeasurement of between 10 and 30 cubic feet.

Jenn-Air Launches Master Class Blog on Kitchen-focused Content

Potomac Edison Introduces Recycling Program for Refrigerators and Freezers

Boffi, the premiere interiors concept brandrenowned for its kitchen, bath and storagesystems, has opened a new Chicagolocation in the River North area. Thismarks a move from the company’s originalChicago location to a 2,000 square footspace within the Maxalto (a B&B Italiaoffshoot) studio. The new showroomopened in late June and operates as ashowcase for new concepts and Chicagohome to the comprehensive and evolvingBoffi collections.

“We look forward to being a part of thedynamic design community in Chicago,and feel that Boffi’s products offer broadappeal to design-minded homeowners inthe area,” said Roberto Gavazzi, CEO of

Boffi. “Our new showroom will continueto offer the highest level of service andproducts within the industry for thekitchen, bath and beyond.”

Boffi was established in 1934 as a smallkitchen furniture workshop. Art DirectorPiero Lissoni and CEO Roberto Gavazzijoined in 1989, and completed the firstoverarching bathroom concept, forgingnew territory, and expanding the brand’sproduction and distribution to garneraccolades, including the prestigious“Compasso d’Oro” in 1995. The companyhas evolved to span a network of morethan 400 retail and trade partners,including twenty-three stand-alone Boffishowrooms positioned in key cities across

the globe. In 2010 Boffi partnered withFantini to create a new concept,“Aboutwater”, a collection of modern,elegant bathroom taps designed by PieroLissoni and Naoto Fukasawa. Within thesame year, Boffi enriched the range ofproducts with “Solferino”, a wardrobesystem. Boffi continues to pursue the mostbeautiful forms and technologicalinnovations to service the ultimate lifestyle,anchored by kitchens, bath and beyond;the perfect mix of modernity and tradition.

The move to the new location comes asBoffi Chicago is poised to introduce newkitchen, bath and wardrobe systems. With a distinctive design philosophy, Boffi maintains an authentic aesthetic

Boffi Announces New Location in Chicago

recognizable worldwide, and remains anessential resource with the trade and high-design minded consumers.

For more information, emailinfo@boffichicago.com or visitwww.boffichicago.com.

IN THE ISSUEwww.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 5

O N T H E C O V E R

STARFRITDouble Wall Thermo Glasseswww.starfritusa.com

ISLAND BAMBOOSolid Bamboo Cutting Boards[tel] 949.492.9921www.islandbamboo.com

ZOKU HOMESingle Quick Pop Maker[email] info@zokuhome.comwww.zokuhome.com

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PRESIDENT Lee M. Oser

It is our pleasure to introduce to you in this issue the fine folks at The Podge, a specialty foodsand kitchenware shop in Clarence, N.Y. that was founded by Roger Bickert. For more than adecade, he ran his shop in the burned-out restaurant he bought and rebuilt around a fireplace thatwas just about all that was left standing because he thought that, as a local landmark, that fireplaceshould be preserved and he was the man to do it. It's still part of The Podge.

We learned about The Podge as a couple of members of our editorial staff were on the way fromthis year's Fancy Food Show to the Baltimore-Washington airport for the flight back home toTucson, Ariz. One of the editors happened to pick up her smartphone to check her email andcame up with a link to a Slate magazine story in praise of wooden spoons. Author Lee Havliceknoted that wooden spoons seem to have fallen out of favor in her friends' kitchens and the articlesums up her thoughts on why that shouldn't be.

Our two editors reacted to the news that wooden spoons have fallen out of favor with a spate ofindignant comments about Havlicek's choice of friends, and they were overheard by The Podge'sCo-owner and Partner Nora Drogi, who happened to be sitting immediately in front of them inthe shuttle van. She turned with an apology for listening in on the conversation, although shecould hardly have helped hearing it, and joined in on the defense of wooden spoons. At her shop,she gives away a wooden spoon to each customer who buys a Bialetti pan, and she sells quite afew wooden spoons as well, she said.

Our editors immediately wanted to know more about her shop, and they started peppering herwith questions: Where is it? What else do you sell? Do your customers like the Bialetti products?Tell us more. We want to know more!

When she clearly began to wonder how to escape from the sudden interrogation by a pair oflunatics, the editors thought to introduce themselves. Nora responded by saying that she's aregular reader of both Kitchenware News & Housewares Review and Gourmet News and thatshe'd be delighted to contribute by letting us profile her shop for our readers.

And that's how it happens that you get to meet The Podge too. Small miracles happen inserendipitous circumstances … Nora Drogi changes her flight home from the Fancy Food Show,and then she books herself onto the same airport shuttle as a couple of magazine editors, and thenSlate magazine runs a story about wooden spoons that the editorial director of Kitchenware News& Housewares Review happens to see during that hour-long ride, and then Nora Drogi joins inon the conversation.

And now you get to be part of the conversation too, and Roger Bickert will be rememberedby thousands and thousands of readers who had never heard of him before. A small kind ofa miracle, really.

Lee M. Oser, Publisher

publisherfrom the

from theeditor

I’m dreaming of holidays―somewhere tropical with umbrellas in all drinks, even water. Butreally, the holiday season is THE season for retailers to make a ton of money, so we might haveto postpone those vacations for a while. Fortunately, this edition is absolutely crammed with greatgift ideas for your customers and, dare I say, yourselves. I, for one, have already mentally spentseveral checks before they’ve even arrived while writing and pouring over these products. Fromthe coolest gadgets for the kitchen to personal care products that will keep you smelling andlooking fabulous while still looking after the environment, there are truly gifts for everyone onthese well-stocked pages.

With the NYIGF just around the corner, we have also included a vast array of new products fromretailers and manufacturers that will hit the spot as you prepare to travel and meet-and-greet.Batten down the hatches a bit though as you check out Trade Show Buzz, as rumors are rampantthat Fancy Food Show attendees will be devastated to hear that “there's a proposal afoot todemolish Javits Center in favor of a convention center to be built somewhere other than inmidtown Manhattan.” Shhhhh, don’t tell anyone, eh? Whatever you decide to do―holiday orno―count your blessings.

Renée Purdierenee_p@oser.com

august 2012contents

3 GENERAL NEWS

6 ONE ON ONE

7 RETAILER PROFILE

8 PRODUCT REVIEWS

9 SPECIAL FEATURE HOLIDAY UPDATE

24 BUYERS GUIDE SMALL ELECTRICS

27 GIFTWARE NYIGF/ GOURMET HOUSEWARES

30 GIFTWARE PERSONAL CARE

31 AD INDEX

31 UPCOMING EVENTS

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

S E RV I NG K I T CH ENWAR E , HOU S EWAR E S AND TA B L E TO P MA RK E T S

One on OneONE ON ONE6 www.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

BY LORRIE BAUMANN

Q: Recent newsabout the economyhasn’t been the best,but the housewaresindustry seems to

be recovering wellnonetheless. Do you think that perceptionis accurate? If so, why is that?

A: All of our indicators tell us that therecovery, at least in the housewares world, is proceeding steadily, although that progress is occasionally a little bumpy in some sectors. As we speak toIHA members, they tend to concur. Inaddition, a number of retailers have noted recently that homegoods has been aleader in their business growth.

As we have tracked sales in the housewaresindustry over the past 20 years, we haveseen that when the economy dips,housewares traditionally does not sink asdeeply. Based on our research with

consumers, this seems to be based on thefact that people are spending more timeat home when the economy tightens.

Q: During this year’s IH+HS, thereseemed to be great involvement from celebrity chefs who were present to talk about pots and pans branded with their names as well as pans andappliances for which they werespokespeople. The message was that theright equipment can help home cooks produce chef-quality results at home. Why is this such a strong messageright now?

A: The consumer interest in chefs seemsto be at an all-time high, driven bycompetitions both on television and those organized locally. The number ofchefs who have achieved prominencecontinues to grow as these chefs arerecognized in all forms of media. And, ofcourse, as authorities, these chefs offerwhat home cooks seem to view as

meaningful advice on food preparation andfood prep tools.

This is not a new phenomenon but it doesseem to be on the increase.

Q: This comes at a time when Americansare eating at home more often and inrestaurants less often. Yet Americans arestill clearly interested in professional chefs,even as we’re eating their food less often.How can you explain that paradox?

A: Since there is a trend toward moremeals prepared at home, this may indicatea desire to replicate the restaurantexperience at home. But it also seems asthough many home chefs have becomemore adventurous as a result of theirexposure to these celebrities.

Plus there is the “celebrity factor.”Consumers love celebrities and if they can prepare their meals with the samecookware and utensils that their favoritechef uses, the end result may taste just as good.

Q: We also saw strong interest during the IH+HS in products made in

America, and that interest seems to havegrown since then. Do you think that ’s a strong trend that’s likely to continue? If so, what ’s driving it? Is it just a matter of American patriotism or issomething else at work? Is some of thatinterest in American products coming fromoutside this country?

A: We have heard both from our retail community and from consumers that “Made in U.S.A.” is increasinglyimportant in purchase decisions. We don’thave any hard data regarding theirmotivations, but it does seem to be a keymarketing strategy for many of ourmember companies. In addition, there aresome buyers outside the U.S. who are incountries for which “Made in U.S.A.”products carry favorable or lower duties,making them more appealing.

Q:What is your own favorite new kitchentool and what do you do with it?

A: There are so many great tools currently available that it ’s just too difficult to pick one. We love to cookoutdoors so whatever can help us with that is great!

Phil BrandlPresident, International Housewares Association

Retailer ProfileRETAILER PROFILEwww.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 7

BY LORRIE BAUMANN

“Think globally, act locally” is a sloganthat might have been written especiallyfor The Podge, a 1,400 or so square-footshop in Clarence, N.Y, a suburb of Buffalo.The store competes in a global marketplaceby focusing on local products and valuesand by giving shoppers superb customerservice and prices that match onlineretailers for the same products.

The Podge devotes about half its displayspace to food products and the other halfto kitchenware.

There’s no line down the middle of thestore, though, and that proportionfluctuates through cross-merchandisingdisplays, says Nora Drogi, Co-Owner andPartner in The Podge, along with BeckyVara-Bickert.

The store’s cross-merchandising helpscustomers see new items and add them totheir baskets and also makes the layoutmore convenient for elderly people whocome in for related items but have troublemaking their way around the floor to findthem. Since the median age of the store’sclientele is 60, solving those mobility issuesis a real service to a significant proportionof the customers, and that matters a greatdeal to the folks at The Podge, who seethe way they look out for their customers’needs as key to developing loyalty. “Mostcustomers have been coming here for 10 years or more,” Partner and Co-OwnerBecky Vara-Bickert says. “We like to consider them our friends. They’re thereason we’re here.”

Most of them arewomen, althoughmore men arecoming in nowthat the word’sgotten out thatThe Podge carriesthe full line ofLodge cookware.“This time of year,the campers comein here,” Drogisays. The BialettiAeternum line isalso so popular thatit’s hard for Vara-Bickert to keep the itemsin stock, especially since she gives away awooden spoon to everyone who buys aBialetti pan. She goes through a 120-spooncase a month that way. “People love woodin western New York,” she says.

The majority of the store’s business comesfrom within a 30-mile radius, with mostof the rest of the customer base coming

from within 60 miles. A few, though, findthe shop from farther away through word-of-mouth that has spread The Podge’sreputation as a destination for bakers whoneed to find that special cookie cutter. ThePodge has over 400 cookie cutter designsin stock and draws customers for themfrom all over western New York. About 90percent of the cookie cutters are made inthe U.S.A. and come from suppliers thatinclude Ann Clark, Ltd., a family companythat got its start in Clark’s garage and isnow the largest cookie cutter company inthe gift industry, and H.O. FooseTinsmithing Company of Fleetwood, Penn.“‘Made in the U.S.A.’ is a big selling pointfor our customers,” Drogi says.

Along with the cookie cutters, bakers canbuy all the sprinkles, decorating tips,fondant, flavorings and baking pans theyneed to create the most amazing cookiesthey can imagine. The cookie cutterselection draws collectors as well as bakers,and The Podge has just started a cookiecutter loyalty program for bakers who justcan’t get enough different designs for their collections.

Much of the shop’s inventory is as local asthe clientele, with a particular emphasison products that are made within 100 milesand often picked up at the source by Drogi herself. Those include coffee that’s roasted locally, with a portion of theprofits donated to local charities, andAnchor Bar wing sauce, whose makers are credited with inventing the Buffalochicken wing. The Podge sells honey from

Appleton, about 30 miles away, andlocal maple syrup,both products thathad previously been sold onlythrough localfarmers marketsbut had customerswho wanted themeven during thewinter when thefarmers markets areclosed. There’s also a Podge line of locally-madeproducts private

labeled for the store. Many are made in the next town down the road, and they include mixes for soups, muffins, beer bread and pancakes as well as jellies.“We did help develop these products, but we don’t produce them ourselves,”Drogi says.

The Podge lets customers know about new products as they’re introduced through

No Cookie-Cutter Approach to Customer Service at The Podge

its quarterly newsletterdelivered both by email andpostal mail. The newsletteralso includes seasonalrecipes, coupons andspecials, and notes from thestaff about what they’redoing in their own kitchensand how they’re using someof the great products they’vefound for their store.

The shop’s Facebook pagealso helps the staff stay intouch with customers near and far, andcustomers are using it to ask quickquestions about the availability ofparticular products or to get news aboutspecial events. It’s also being used as a toolto deliver the great customer service thathelps The Podge compete with onlineretailers. “When you buy online, what youdon’t get is personal service and product

knowledge,” Drogi says. Her customersoften come into her store to buy becausethey know that along with their purchases,they can get advice on how to useingredients that are new to them and howto get the results they’re looking for fromnew cookware. They’ll also get prices thatare competitive with those offered by themanufacturers on their websites. Drogipoints out that her customers often comeout even on their transactions with herbecause, although they must pay New Yorksales tax on the items they buy from her,they don’t pay shipping charges, which canbe expensive on heavy items like Lodgecast-ironware, and they get the bonus ofbeing able to take their purchases homeand start using them immediately.

That doesn’t mean that The Podge hasn’trealized that some customers might stillprefer to buy online.

A new website is going online soon so thatcustomers can shop The Podge frombehind their computers and get the newsabout special events such as the recentpromotion with former Buffalo Bills widereceiver Andre Reed, who makes a cooking

sauce and donates the profits to a charitythat helps kids stay off drugs. “The Podgedid not make any profit on the sauce thatday,” says Drogi of the event. “We donatedour profit to Kids Escaping Drugs.”

The Andre Reed event was part of acommunity involvement effort designedto remind local residents to stop in, supportother local businesses and help theirneighbors. For instance, the shop hosteda coffee with a blend created for the eventin cooperation with the Buffalo Screamsfilm festival, which is in its third year in2012. Buffalo Screams is associated thisyear with Scares That Care!—a nonprofitorganization that brings horror fanstogether to help sick children and womenfighting breast cancer.

This year, a portion of all the ticket salesfor Buffalo Screams will be donated tocharity, and The Podge is working withBuffalo Screams to develop a special blendof coffee that’s guaranteed to keep thosewho drink it awake for the late-nightpicture show. A portion of the profits fromthe sales will be donated to a charity to benamed later. “You wouldn’t necessarily putcooking together with a horror festival,”says Drogi, “but sure, you can.”

Other community projects are designedmore as cross-marketing efforts, such asthe cooperation with a nearby meat marketthat sends customers to The Podge fortheir meatballers. Some of them areoutright donations to some of the manyfund drives that solicit help. Drogi thinksof all of them as ways to carry on a legacyfrom Roger Bickert, the store’s founder,who died not long ago, leaving his widowBecky and Nora behind to run the store.“Roger Bickert and The Podge have beena staple in the town of Clarence for manyyears,” Drogi says. “As it moves into thefuture, The Podge will be preserving thepast and the store he built from a burned-out restaurant that had been a Clarencelandmark. Roger saw that it still hadpotential, and he believed in preservingthe past. He’s still a part of everything wedo here.”

The Podge is located at 10205 Main Street,Clarence, N.Y. 14031. Call 716.759.2080or visit www.thepodge.com.

Product ReviewsPRODUCT REVIEWS8 www.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

BY A.J. FLICK

It’s like I have a whole new set of knives!

Years ago (more years than I care to thinkabout), my brother gave me a set of decentknives in a block—my first set of kitchencutlery. They served me well, but—ofcourse—over time, the blades got dull. Ialways intended to take them to getsharpened, or get a better knife sharpenerthan the one that they came with. Emphasison “intended.”

Then, over the years, I acquired variousother knives that took the place of thatblock knife set, which got pushed into a

corner of the kitchen because it was stillattractive and had sentimental value.Sometimes, I’d hide the dull knives in adrawer and store other mismatched knivesin the block, just for convenience.

Dull knife set, meet the JewelStik 1-2-3.

Pennsylvania-based Hewlett Manufacturinghas proudly made diamond knife sharpenersin the U.S.A. for almost 50 years. The 1-2-3is so named because it has three diamondgrits on one handle. The coarse grit (270mesh) sharpens the dulled blade and shouldbe used sparingly, not as maintenance. Themedium grit (600, which is the industry

JewelStik 1-2-3 Brings Old Knives Back to Life

standard) helps maintain a consistent edge.The fine grit (1800) can be used to fine-hone thin blades used for slicing or skinning.

So I took my once-beloved, much-used andnow-dulled chef ’s knife and introduced itto the JewelStik 1-2-3, first, with the baseof the knife at the top of the coarse gritside, running it downward at an angleagainst the JewelStik to the tip of the blade. I then repeated the process with theother side of the blade. After a couple ofswipes, I rotated the JewelStik to themedium grit and repeated the process.(Hewlett advises sharpening the knives ata low angle as the JewelStik’s 3/4" sides are

oval-shaped so users don’t need to worryabout getting the angle perfect.)

Despite not being a highly experiencedknife sharpener, I can attest to the fact thatafter a few swipes on the JewelStik, my oldset of knives is renewed and happily beingused again. With regular maintenance, theywill continue to be.

JewelStik 1-2-3 comes in sizes from 5" to12" (your sharpener should be at least as longas your blade) with suggested retail pricesranging from $34.00 to $64.95. For moreinformation, email sharpen@jewelstik.comor visit www.jewelstik.com.

BY ANA VENNE

For an amateur cook such as myself, slicingvegetables, cheese or fruit into equal slicesis almost a chore. When I got to try the

Tari Slicer, I was super excited by the easeof use it promises and my family's Fourthof July barbecue provided the perfectopportunity to try it out.

The Tari Slicer has serrated Japanese steelblades that are spaced so you will alwaysget 5mm slices, and claims to be perfectfor cutting tomatoes and mushrooms aswell as soft fruits and cheeses. To use it,you simply place whatever you need toslice in the cutting window and squeeze itclosed, which pushes your slices outthrough the bottom of the slicer. The TariSlicer also features a locking mechanismto hold it closed when not in use. I foundthis to be a particularly useful feature as Ihave limited storage space in my kitchen.

The first things I decided to try out wereRoma tomatoes. Some were over-ripe,which caused them to squish a little (andsquirt juice everywhere) while cutting, butthe fresher tomatoes cut perfectly. Afterslicing the tomatoes I needed, I poppedopen the fold-out pusher bars and gave it a quick rinse. The tomato seeds and

juices rinsed off pretty easily, though ittook a light scrubbing to get the bladescompletely clean.

I then tried cutting a couple different kindsof cheeses. Mozzarella cut with little effort,like the packaging boasts, and if you arewilling to give a little harder squeeze, youcan slice harder cheeses like pepper jackor cheddar. My only issue with slicingcheeses was that you had to trim downthe cheese until it fit perfectly in thecutting window or it wouldn't pushthrough the blades correctly. Cleaning thecheese off of the blade and pusher barswas a little more challenging than just arinse, but running it through thedishwasher did the trick.

For more information about the Tari Slicer, contact GEFU at 417.459.4272 orvisit www.gefu.us.

Our reviewer tested the VitaClay 6 CupSmart Multicooker in her home kitchen. Shereported that VitaClay takes less time thanother slow cookers; if a traditional slow cookerrecipe calls for four hours on a high settingor eight hours on a low setting, the VitaClaywill cook it in two hours in its unglazed,natural clay pot.

The reviewer started off by testing it with apot of rice and was thrilled at the VitaClay’sperformance. “The rice was perfectly doneeach time,” she said.

Emboldened by the success of the riceexperiment, she checked www.essenergy.comfor some of the recipes provided by VitaClay’smakers and then decided to make a whitechili chicken dish with ingredients she had

on hand, including a can of white beans.With this dish, she didn’t get the same kindof perfect results that the VitaClay gave herwith the rice, although after a couple of hoursof stewing in a chicken-broth mixture withbeans and rice, her chicken breasts came outperfectly tender. The beans, though, sank tothe bottom and got scorched.

The scorching gave her a chance to see howhard it would be to clean up the mess. TheVitaClay instructions tell you in case of hardresidue, soak the pot overnight. She didn’thave that kind of time, so she let the potsoak for an hour or so and was able to cleanit with no problem.

For a final experiment, the reviewer made apot roast with beef and reported that after

Great Success with the VitaClay 6 Cup Smart Multicooker

10-minute increments. It has a preset timerand a 24-hour clock.

The VitaClay comes with a limited one yearwarranty and has a suggested retail price of$149.99. For more information, go towww.essenergy.com.

two hours, her chuck roast was tender, andher onion, carrots and potatoes were delicious.“Great success!” she reported.

The VitaClay Smart Multicooker hasmultiple settings for white rice, brown rice,sweet rice, stew and soup with extendedsettings for beans, porridge and other dishes.It boasts energy savings of 50 percent overother slow cookers and has programmablesettings from 10 minutes to five hours with

GEFU Tari Slicer Cuts Prep Time in Half

VOLUME 18, NUMBER 8 AUGUST 2012

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

S E RV I NG K I T CH ENWAR E , HOU S EWAR E S AND TA B L E TO P MA RK E T S

holidayupdate

HOLIDAY UPDATE www.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 201210

KAPOOSH KNIFE BLOCKSWhat do you do when you havefavorite knives from several differentsets—or if you’re missing knives from afavorite set and the replacements don’tquite fit in the block? For the solution,think inside the block with Kapoosh®

knife blocks. The unique Kapooshfreedom rods make this knife blockversatile and allows you to mix andmatch kitchen knives from different setsin one convenient place. The patentedfreedom rod technology conforms tothe shape of each knife and holds it inplace anywhere in the block. The rodskeep knives sharper by preventing theblades from scraping the edges liketraditional wood blocks. Kapoosh knifeblocks with freedom rods are also morehygienic than traditional wood blocks,as they can be easily cleaned. Justremove the rods, which are attachedat the bottom, from the base of theKapoosh knife block and clean themin the top rack of any dishwasher. Giveyour customers the solution they needwith Kapoosh knife blocks.

ARY Inc.[tel] 816.767.7975www.aryinc.com

FRUITSTAR VERTICAL SINGLE AUGER JUICERTribest Corporation, a veteran of thejuicer market, introduces the newFruitstar low RPM vertical juicer. Just intime for the peak of summer, theFruitstar will quickly get you juicing amultitude of fruits needed to cool off inthe summer heat. Designed withconvenience and safety in mind, theFruitstar juicer is virtually BPA free, hostsa single vertical auger and comes witha handle for easy transportation. Thepowerful 240 watt motor spins at a slow80 RPM, ensuring the preservation ofnutrients while still retaining the powerto be able to process a variety of fruitsand vegetables. Featuring a full 10-yearwarranty, an innovative pulp wipingassembly to reduce clogging, a heavyduty single auger, a heavy duty ultemscreen, and a 240 watt motor morepowerful than many of its competitors,the Fruitstar makes for a fantasticaddition to any kitchen.

Tribest Corporation[tel] 714.879.7150www.tribest.com

VIETRI’S NEW BOXED GIFT COLLECTIONVIETRI’s new boxed gift collectionincludes unique items, inspired by topselling collections, perfect for giftingon any occasion. Each item,packaged in a classic Italian redpinstripe box with a gold foil logo, isnestled in rustic straw reminiscent ofthe original Italian packing material.VIETRI’s six boxed offerings are: an OldSt. Nick cookie plate, soap dish andtwo-part server, an eternity gold balltoasting flute set, a Bellezza whitespoon rest and white dove votive anda Lastra White Bottle Holder.

VIETRI Inc.www.vietri.com

TILONIA HOME TABLE LINENSTilonia is a US-based, mission-drivensocial enterprise helping artisans tomarket their products around theworld. Tilonia home table linens arehand block printed by rural artisans ofRajasthan, India using natural cottonand low-impact dyes. Honoringcenturies old traditions, Tilonia hometable linens celebrate the subtletiesof craft and the simplicity ofcontemporary design. The tablecloth(60" x 90") and six napkins (18" x 18")are available in: cranberry fancypaisley, gold fancy paisley and plumfancy paisley.Suggested Retail Price: $139.95

Friends of Tilonia Inc.[email] shop@tilonia.comwww.tilonia.com

HOLIDAY UPDATEwww.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 11

BELLA TAVOLA FONDUE & CHAFING BURNERThe easy-to-use, automatic ignition BellaTavola Fondue & Chafing Burner isperfect for both professional chefs orentertaining at home. It is part of theBella Tavola line, a butane-poweredculinary tool line by Wall Lenk Corp. Thiscompact, butane-powered burnerfeatures an adjustable flame controllever, safety mechanism turn-off stopper,built-in pressure release valve, non-tipwide base and refillable reservoir. Thesmall, lightweight burner can last up to90 minutes on the low setting. It is idealfor use with fondue pots, chafers, stonegrills, raclette sets, soup tureens andcoffee and beverage urns. It can alsobe used as a cooktop with the optionalBella Tavola Cooking Platform.Suggested Retail Price: $39.99

Wall Lenk Corp.[tel] 252.527.4186www.wlenk.comwww.bellatavolatools.com

WESTON PRODUCTS MANUAL KITCHEN MIXERSWeston Products has recentlyintroduced two essential kitchen toolsthat handle all your food preparationneeds; including chopping, separatingeggs, beating, grating and juicing. Theyare perfect for quick jobs or when youdo not want to haul out your large,clunky kitchen appliances, but wouldrather use a compact, all-in-one tool toget the job done. The Manual KitchenKit is truly versatile, featuring a variety ofattachments and components thatmake kitchen prep and clean upincredibly easy. It includes a mixingpaddle, a dual-sided chopping bladeand egg separator that fit right onto thelid. Additionally, you can remove the lidand use the juicing attachment ormandoline slicer to change the functionof the kit entirely. The Multi-FunctionManual Mixer comes with a three-bladechopper, two whisks, two mixers andone beater, making it the go-to tool formixing batter, beating eggs andchopping fruits and vegetables for quicksalsas and salads. The best part aboutboth of these mixers is that you chopand mix everything in the samecontainer, which saves you time, spaceand a lot of unnecessary dirty dishes.

Weston Products[tel] 800.814.4895www.westonproducts.com

JONAS BAKER’S COOLING RACKExpand your counter space with JonasBaker’s Cooling Rack. Not only is it greatfor baking, but it’s an excellent tool forarts and craft projects. The rackfeatures four arms that accommodatevarious depths of dishes and may beextended for increased countertopspace. The arms can be left up or useddown. Each arm is able to hold up to10 pounds and stands 13" tall in use. Itfolds flat to a compact size of 22" x 10"x 0.5" for ease of storage. LindenSweden offers several handy items tosatisfy any baker’s needs, includingsilicone pastry mats, measuring cups,whipping bowls, spatulas, piping bagkits and various rolling pins.Suggested Retail Price: $20.00

Linden Sweden[tel] 952.465.0052[email] info@lindensweden.comwww.lindensweden.com

HOLIDAY UPDATE www.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 201212

MINI RACLETTTE BY NOUVELAs a party host, little else is as fun andrewarding as serving people wonderfulfood at holiday parties and events.Thanks to a trend that was pioneered inSwitzerland in the early 1900s, guests can now be a part of that foodpreparation and cooking right at thetable. The mini raclette by Nouvel® ispowered by four tea light candles, yetcan cook nearly anything in minutes.Prepare the fresh ingredients inadvance, set them all on the table, andguide your guests through their ownculinary exploration as everyone cooksfor themselves or others on individual-sized raclettes. Tabletop cookingbecomes a very social and memorableevent, and best of all, the host does notspend hours cooking in advance andrunning in and out of the kitchen. Witha tabletop cooking and entertainingguide that provides ideas, recipes andshopping lists for easy party preparation,the fun and social aspect of tabletopcooking is even easier for all to enjoy.Inno-Labs is the exclusive US distributorfor the Nouvel product line.

Inno-Labs[tel] 620.229.9800www.inno-labs.com

CORE BAMBOO’S BUTCHER BLOCK WITH PREP BOWLSWhat better way to kick off the holidayseason than with Core Bamboo’sprofessional grade butcher’s blockwith three prep bowls! You’ll be ableto prepare everything for a festivefeast—from dicing vegetables tocarving a holiday turkey—with thisheavy duty prep board. The uniquedesign of this butcher’s block includesthree stainless steel bowls to use forpreparing ingredients, holding spicesand keeping sauces handy. Made of100% organically grown bamboo, thisboard is well constructed and canwithstand even the most intensechopping. Leave on your counter fora gourmet kitchen all year long!

Core Bamboo[tel] 646.845.6000www.corebamboo.com

CHEF PRO ELECTRIC TORTILLA/FLATBREAD MAKERSChef Pro has two models of electrictortilla/flatbread makers in 8" and 10"diameters. Chef Pro tortilla makersflatten, roll out the dough and cookit—so now anyone can make fresh,delicious specialty tortillas and wrapswith their own choice of spices. Regularflour, corn flour and even gluten-freeflour can be used to make excellentwraps and tortillas with these tortillamakers. Just make balls of dough,place them on the tortilla maker andcook one delicious wrap or tortilla everyminute. Chef Pro tortilla makers aremade from quality materials and havetemperature controls to regulate theflow of heat. With cool touch handles,non-stick plates for easy cleaning anda ready light that indicates when tostart baking, these hot appliances willmake very cool holiday gifts.

Mercantile International[tel] 732.650.9400 or 855.243.3776[email] wholesale@mercantileintl.com

HUROM SLOW JUICERThe classic white Hurom Slow Juicer hasbeen such a hit that the company isadding 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

HOLIDAY UPDATEwww.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 13

BUTCHER BLOCK AND CUTTING BOARD OIL AND BUTCHER BLOCK CONDITIONERHoward Products’ butcher block andcutting board oil and butcher blockconditioner will help you get more useout of your cutting boards and butcherblocks. Made of food-grade mineral oiland enriched with Vitamin E, the high-quality butcher block and cuttingboard oil is great for use on cuttingboards, butcher blocks and woodenutensils. The butcher block conditionerhas added natural waxes, and is safeto use after every wash, preventing yourwooden kitchen items from drying orcracking, keeping them functional andbeautiful. They are both excellent add-on items to any wooden kitchen utensil,bowl or cutting board purchase.

Howard Products[tel] 800.266.9545www.howardproducts.com

EPIC PRODUCTS HOLIDAY BOOT CORK CAGECherish holiday memories andcelebrations with Epic Products HolidayBoot Cork Cage®. This whimsical, hand-crafted metal boot features red andgreen glass embellishments with a redribbon laced through the wire forminga playful bow, making it a perfect tableor kitchen accent for storing corks orholding a wine bottle. Happy holidays!

Epic Products Inc.[tel] 800.548.9791www.epicproductsinc.com

LS ARTS GLASS COLLECTIONChristmas is coming; are you ready?Celebrate Christmas with whimsicaldesigns from LS Arts. Choose from bottlestoppers, miniature glass Christmas trees,wine charm trees or spreaders. LS Artshas all of your holiday entertaining needsat a reasonable price. For holiday giftsand entertaining, what could be betterthan setting the table with adorable itemswithout breaking the bank?

LS Arts Inc.[tel] 954.722.1750www.lsarts.com

PRODYNE FRUIT INFUSION NATURAL FRUIT FLAVOR PITCHEREnjoy refreshing lemon water, raspberryiced tea and more with Prodyne’s FruitInfusion Pitcher. The crystal clear acrylicpitcher has a removable fruit infusionrod that can easily be filled with cutlemons, limes or raspberries. Open slotsin the rod allow liquids and fresh fruit tomix naturally and give your beveragesa fruit-infused flavor. With this ingeniousfeature, the pitcher can continually berefilled without having to replace thefruit. It measures a generous 92 oz./2.9qt. (80 oz./2.5 qt. with tube).

Prodyne[tel] 800.822.4776www.prodyne.com

HOLIDAY UPDATE www.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 201214

GLOBAL AMICI’S AERATING GOBLETGlobal Amici’s aerating goblet allowsyou to enjoy your red or white wine inItalian style. This attractive wine glass isproduced with a classic design ofpatented optic ridges on the inside ofeach glass. These optic ridges “agitate”the wine when the glass is rotated inan anti-clockwise direction. As the wineis agitated during the rotation process,a chemical reaction takes place thatresults in the release of unwantedcarbon dioxide from the wine and animmediate heightening of the wine’sflavor and aroma. There is no need todecant or wait for the wine to breath.These claims are made with thebacking of scientific tests performedunder the direction of ProfessorCeccanti at the University of Rome inItaly. Global Amici’s aerating goblet issold in an attractive color gift box thatincludes a detailed instruction sheet.The generously-sized goblet is functionaland chic, making it the perfect gift forthe holiday season.

Global Amici[tel] 858.547.6880www.globalamici.com

WÜSTHOF CLASSIC 6" EXTRA WIDE COOK’S KNIFEResponding to an uptake in sales of its 6" cook’s knives, which appeal to chefsand home cooks with smaller hands, Wüsthof now offers the 6" extra wide cook’sknife in the best-selling Classic Collection. This precision-forged, full tang cook’sknife is crafted with a wider, heavier blade compared to standard models,which helps to power through chopping, slicing, dicing and mincing with minimaleffort. The wider blade also provides the perfect tool for crushing garlic andother ingredients, as well as transporting ingredients from the chopping block tobowls and pans. The handle of this cook’s knife is the same size as the larger 8"cook’s knife to ensure optimum power, while the 6" blade delivers agility andcontrol. Also known as the chef’s knife, Wüsthof's cook’s knife is the workhorseof the kitchen, an indispensable tool that can be used for multiple tasks. AllClassic knives feature Wüsthof’s patent-pending Precision Edge Technology.Using guided, state-of-the-art lasers, blade sharpness has been increased by 20percent, and all knives now maintain their edge twice as long. Classic knivesfeature the company’s signature bolster/finger guard at the base of the blade,which accounts for the cutlery’s heft and solid, balanced feel.

Wüsthof[tel] 203.295.3796www.wusthof.com

HIGHWAVE FLOAT/WINE PRESERVEHighwave’s Float/Wine Preserve is aunique, new, smart tool to preserve therest of your very good bottle of redwine. If you are just not in the mood topump your wine or inject nitrogen topreserve the last of a very good bottle,this is the solution. Each verticaldecanter and float is hand-blown andmade of borosilicate glass. Simply pourwhat you want to enjoy some othertime into the decanter. The FDA-approved silicone element mimics adrop of wine bouncing off the surfacefrozen in time. The float creates ablanket over the wine surfaceeliminating contact with air andoxidation and keeps your finest winesperfect for up to two weeks. The bird’smouth gives a fine pour when you areready and the hand-crafted float ridesthe wave when you pour that nextglass of wine. The hand-crafteddecanter slips perfectly into theHighwave Will Chill to keep wine chilledfor many hours—until the end of agood party, for instance. TheFloat/Wine Preserve has patentspending from Highwave in California.

Highwave[tel] 800.444.4928www.highwave.com

HOLIDAY UPDATEwww.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 15

HEWLETT MANUFACTURING JEWELSTIK DIAMOND KNIFE SHARPENERThe metal on the edge of all kniveseventually dulls, breaks off or wearsdown. Most knife sets are sold with abutcher steel, but although a necessarytool, a butcher steel will never sharpena knife and provide a new edge foryou to work with. A butcher steel willmaintain the edge of a knife, but neversharpen it. Of course you can send yourcutlery out to be professionallysharpened, but that process isexpensive and time consuming. This iswhere Hewlett Manufacturing JewelStik1-2-3 Diamond Knife Sharpener comesto the rescue. It will save you time andmoney and you can do it yourself.Hewlett Manufacturing has done theresearch to provide the perfectdiamond surface to remove metal fromthe edge of your knife and create anew edge in just a few strokes. The entireproduct line is made in the U.S.A. andoffers a variety of lengths: 5", 10" and12". Hewlett also backs up their productline with a lifetime guarantee. Suggested Retail Price: $13.50 - 59.95

Hewlett Manufacturing[tel] 814.683.4762 www.jewelstik.com

WABASH VALLEY FARMS 14" TALL JUMBO SIZE PARTY-IN-A-BOXFrom the company that’s been deliveringpremium popcorn poppers for over 30years, Wabash Valley Farms is nowintroducing their new, ready-to-give,Jumbo Size Party-In-A-Box. The productwas created to allow customers to begreat gift givers while still shopping withintheir budget. This 14" tall gift set reallypops and is priced to sell. The reusablepopcorn container is jam-packed withall of your favorite movie night essentials,including delicious buttery popcorn,movie-sized Skittles®, movie-sized Mikeand Ikes® and Twizzlers®. Every jumbopopcorn tub comes packaged with asnap-on lid for convenient stacking.Decorative, sturdy and ready-to-give, itis the perfect gift for the popcorn loveron anyone’s list.Suggested Retail Price: $19.99

Wabash Valley Farms Inc[tel] 877.888.7077www.wfarms.com

CATALYTIC FRAGRANCE LAMPThe Carine catalytic fragrance lampfrom the Emilie Collection is designedto clean and purify the air and removeall offensive house odors—like cigarettesmoke, pet odors and mildew—by theprocess of catalytic combustion.Wonderful, long lasting French homefragrances will bring relief from stress and create a romantic ambience. Thereare 36 lamps of different designs andcolors, as well as 32 French homefragrances—including unscented. Byusing unscented fuel, the lamps can helpget rid of all the odors without addingany fragrance. Each lamp is beautifullypresented in a creative and appealing8" x 6" x 6" Provence style gift box.Suggested Retail Price: $42

Les Provencales Ambiences, Inc.[tel] 609.945.1997www.lpa-lamps.com

ARTĔL GLASS’ GLACIER COLLECTIONThe globally renowned producer ofluxury crystal couture, Artĕl, inpartnership with Designer DavidWiseman, is making two new shapesavailable in its popular glacier design. In addition to the double, old-fashioned glass, bowl and vasethat have been offered since itsintroduction in 2006, the glaciercollection now also includes a one-ounce vodka glass and a large vase (13" x 10.8"). The collection isavailable in amber, olive, purple andsmoke, as well as in clear crystal.Wiseman’s designs are known forbeing inspired by the subtleties ofnature, and the glacier collection—featuring irregular facets of polishedglass that evoke craggy ice floes inan arctic sea—is a quintessentialexample of this accomplished artist’sunique vision. Wiseman’s interior and product designs have beenfeatured in the New York Times, theLos Angeles Times, House & Gardenand Elle Décor.

Artĕl Glasswww.artelglass.com

HOLIDAY UPDATE16 www.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012

AMERICA FEITIAN HANDCRAFTED GLASS GIFTS America FeiTian is the American divisionof Liao Yang FeiTian, China’s largestmanufacturer of handcrafted glass gifts and decorative accessories. Thecompany has been distributingglassware in the United States since 2002.With over 2,000 employees, the factoryproduces a wide range of items,including glass flowers, vases, plates,bowls, candle holders and glass figurines.All of the company’s items are proudlyblown by highly skilled craftsmen withyears of glass making experience. Teamsof designers in China, Europe and theUnited States scour the markets in aconstant search for the latest trends andcolors, ensuring that FeiTian’s productswill appeal to the most discerningconsumers in home décor. As amanufacturer, they are also able to offerproducts at prices that reflect anincredible value. FeiTian alsocollaborates with other glass factories inChina, allowing them to address theneeds for all types of glassware products.

America FeiTian[tel] 909.987.6354www.aftglassware.com

FRANKLIN CHEF USA’S PROFESSIONAL SERIES BLENDERFranklin Chef™ will feature an excitingarray of new products for the upcoming2012 holiday season, including their 10-speed, 7-function Professional Seriesblender (model FCB157S). Boastingalmost 1 horsepower of raw blendingpower, this stylish stainless steel blenderis an ideal fit for today’s health-conscious consumer. Available in earlySeptember 2012, the Franklin Chef™Professional Series blender will offerconsumers outstanding performancecoupled with the most competitiveprice on the market. With its ample 50oz., dishwasher-safe glass pitcher andpowerful stainless steel blades,consumers will marvel at its 700 wattsof blending power for all of theirgrinding, crushing and blending needs.With its modern stainless steel design,blue LED backlit functions and stylishstainless control buttons, this applianceis the perfect countertop addition. Suggested Retail Price: $59.95

Franklin Chef USA[tel] 305.403.8517www.franklinchefusa.com

WHEREVER WATER BOTTLE—LEMON WATER ON-THE-GOWhen life gives you lemons, squeeze’em, put ’em in your water and chugaway! Adding fresh lemon juice to yourwater is a great way to make yourrecommended 64 ounces a day morepalatable—without the added sugar,cost and waste of pre-packagedbeverages. To boot, lemon is naturallydetoxifying, aids in digestion, lowersblood pressure, aids weight loss andfights colds. The new Full CircleWherever Water Bottle has a built-inlemon reamer that makes it easy toadd flavor to your water. The glasscontainer keeps your water healthierand better tasting than plastic and steelbottles, which contaminate the flavorand tend to leach. And fear not, thehour-glass shape of the bottle isprotected by silicone padding and aTriton lid that absorbs the impact whenthe bottle is dropped, helping to avoidbreakage! The 20 oz. Wherever WaterLemon Water On-the-Go Bottle by FullCircle is 100% BPA free and dishwashersafe. It comes in four stylish colors:blackberry, lime-green, raspberry-pinkand blueberry.Suggested Retail Price: $19.99

Full Circle[email] info@fullcirclehome.comwww.fullcirclehome.com

ZOKU SINGLE QUICK POP MAKERThe patented Zoku Single Quick PopMaker freezes pops in as little as sevenminutes right on your countertopwithout electricity. Use your ownhealthy ingredients to quickly makestriped pops, yogurt pops or flavoredcore pops. To enjoy quick pops at amoment's notice, simply store thecompact base in your freezer. Oncefrozen, the Quick Pop Maker can makeup to three, two-ounce pops before itneeds to be refrozen. A speciallydesigned super tool helps to quicklyrelease the frozen treats from the mold.The Single Quick Pop Maker comes inred, orange, lime green, blue or violet.The set includes: three sticks, three dripguards, one Single Quick Pop Makerand one super tool. Dimensions: 4.5" x4.25" x 4.6".Suggested Retail Price: $24.95

Zoku Home[email] info@zokuhome.comwww.zokuhome.com

HOLIDAY UPDATEwww.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 17

VINAROZ COOKWAREVinaroz Cookware can inspirecustomers in many ways. Inspire to cookhealthy, live healthy and spend qualitytime with family. Inspire to become a“legend in their own mind” by creatingdishes made by their favorite celebritychef. Inspire to try new recipes, perfectfavorite cuisines or continue thetradition of family recipes. The varietyof colors that Vinaroz Cookware offerswill inspire customers to enjoy cookingmore than ever and to entertain familyand friends at parties and barbecues.

Vinaroz Cookware[tel] 323.585.3090www.vinarozcookware.com

VITAQUICK BY FISSLERFissler’s Vitaquick® is turning up thepressure this holiday season. With over55 years of pressure cooker experience,Fissler is proud to introduce Vitaquick, arevolutionary pressure cooker that hasbeen redesigned from the ground up.With its sleek, conical design, Vitaquickstacks and stores easily withoutscratching, while Vitaquick’s attractive,contemporary look in polished stainlesssteel, with blue accents, and cool-to-the-touch non-slip black handles, makeit an elegant and classic gift idea. Unlikethe pressure cookers of the past,Vitaquick pressure cookers have nounnerving rattling or hissing whilepressurized and feature multiple safetymechanisms including an automatic

pressure valve, so cooks can relax whileperfect meals are prepared in no time.The speed setting allows users to cookbean soups, stews and meat in a thirdof the regular cooking time. The gentlesetting cooks delicate foods like fish andfine vegetables without damage. UL-listed Vitaquick pressure cookers aresafe, simple to use and very easy toclean. This series is perfect for easilypreparing foods of all kinds in a healthy,gentle and nutritious manner. Vitaquickis 100% made in Germany, fullydishwasher-safe and comes with alifetime warranty.

Fissler USA[tel] 888.347.7537www.fisslerusa.com

MAN LAW 5 PIECE BBQ PREMIUM WOOD HANDLE TOOL SETSince the dawn of man, there has beenhonor and responsibility in providing forone’s family. In order to truly appreciatethis honor, all men must abide by thecode that comes with it. This code isknown as Man Law. Grilling is coveredfor life with this heavy-duty thick gauge(2.5 mm) stainless steel grilling set withpremium wood handles. It includes extralong handle tongs, a fork, a knife, asilicone basting brush, and an 18.9"spatula with serrated edge and built-inbottle opener to keep you hydrated—the perfect intersection of art andscience, engineering and craft, mindand spatula. The proper grilling of a $23porterhouse is a feat to rival the erectionof the Great Pyramids, the Hoover Damand the brother-in-law’s yard shed.Grilling fish or fowl, mere hot dog oredible plant life is a serious endeavor.Grilling, thus, requires the proper tools:tools crafted and honored with the careof a surgeon operating on his fantasyteam’s quarterback; tools, that blessingwhich long ago distinguished man fromanimal. The Man Law BBQ set has alifetime guarantee and is the perfectholiday gift for the real man in your life.

Man Law BBQ[tel] 763.267.7900www.manlawbbq.com

HOLIDAY UPDATE18 www.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

7-PIECE SWISS CLASSIC BLOCK SET WITH SWISS ARMY KNIFESince the 19th century, cutlery byVictorinox Swiss Army has been the firstchoice of professionals and hasconsistently received high accoladesin industry product testing. The edgesare laser tested to ensure optimumcutting power and durability while still being lightweight and balancedfor extended use. The knives are alsodesigned to minimize wrist tension while providing a secure grip. The Swiss Classic block set introduces an evolution to the existing collectionby including a Swiss Army Knife. TheSwiss Army waiter tool offers all thenecessary kitchen tools in one knife.

The ergonomic, slip-resistant design isdishwasher safe, while the mirroredpolish finish on the high-carbon stainlesssteel blade is equivalent to Victorinox’sdurable commercial-grade blade. The entire collection is made to thehighest sanitary standards, earning theNational Sanitary Foundation seal ofapproval. The set includes an 8" chef’sknife, bread knife, paring knife, utilityknife, Swiss Army knife, a 9" honing steeland block. For added peace of mind,there is a lifetime warranty againstmanufacturer’s defects.

Victorinox Swiss Army[tel] 800.442.2706www.swissarmy.com

TALISMAN DESIGNS POT PIE SHIELDThis hot new shield will cover 4", 5" and6" pot pies. Made of FDA food-safesilicone, it is heat resistant up to 500degrees Fahrenheit. It is perfect forhomemade and frozen pot pies. It isreusable and easier to use than tinfoil.Simply place on top of the pie duringthe baking process to get perfectlygolden crusts. It is dishwasher safe.

Talisman Designs LLC[tel] 952.681.2866www.talismandesigns.com

DECANTUS AERO WINE AERATING POURERThe Decantus Aero™ Wine AeratingPourer enhances wine’s flavor andbouquet like no other pourer on themarket. It is all in the taste! Thisbreakthrough in wine aerating pourerswill enable you to experience softertannins, a more aromatic bouquet andgreat flavor. Decantus Aero is the onlywine pourer on the market to have beenscientifically proven to reduce sulfitesby an average of 56 percent. It utilizesthe Bernoulli effect, where the reducedpressure of a stream of fluid (wine) drawsan air flow through diagonal, thin tubesinside the Decantus Aero. It is the mosteffective decanting pourer availableand does not drip. It also includes aremovable top for covering contentsbetween pours which helps preservesthe wine. Restaurant owner Bill S. ofSunbury, Pa. recently stated thefollowing: “The Decantus Aero does anunbelievable job in improving the tasteof wine … We are using it every day inour operation.” The Decantus Aero isavailable in clear or black and isbeautifully gift boxed.Suggested Retail Price: $16.99; 12 eachto a counter display

Franmara[tel] 800.423.5855www.franmara.com

HOLIDAY UPDATE www.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 201220

MASTRAD’S GOURMET WHIPPERSMastrad, creator of stylish and innovativekitchenware accessories, will showcasean array of new product offerings at thisyear’s New York International Gift Fair(NYIGF). The company will be presentingtheir full line of cream and gourmetwhippers as well as nitrous-oxidechargers, whipper stand, recipe bookand foldable, double-mesh strainer andfunnel. These premium whippers yieldfour times the amount of cream pouredinto them, and are capable of storingfresh whipped cream in the refrigeratorfor up to two weeks. Available in twosizes, the cream whippers have analuminum exterior casing, enameledinterior coating and a plastic head andtips. Perfect for making cold creams andmousses, the cream whippers provide asimpler and convenient way to createyour favorite desserts. Offered in threesizes, the hot and cold gourmet whippersboast an enameled exterior casing andinterior coating, a silicone ring inside thehead and plastic tips. These gourmetwhippers create delectable hot or cold,sweet or savory creams, sauces andmousses that will help replicate aprofessional chef’s exquisite desserts.Effective now until January 31, 2013,customers can redeem a comple-mentary Mastrad mousse recipe bookwith the purchase of any whipper.Qualified retailers will receive a Mastradwhipper tear-pad to display in stores.

Mastrad Inc.[tel] 800.358.0608www.mastrad.us

GOURMET KITCHENWORKS SPIRELLI SPIRAL SLICER70-year-old German kitchenwarecompany GEFU Kuchenboss GmbH &Co., creators of sleek, innovative, high-quality kitchen tools and gadgets havedone it again! The Spirelli spiral slicerhas been a runaway hit in Europe, Asiaand Australia since it was launchedand is now taking off in America. Thisinteresting gadget promotes a healthylifestyle by creating “vegetablespaghetti”, endless julienne strips of longcylindrical vegetables such as carrots,cucumbers, zucchini and yellowsquash. Two sizes of spiral slices can becut (2 x 3 mm or 3.5 x 5 mm) which areperfect to create interesting salads, stir-fries and pasta dishes or can be usedto decorate any culinary masterpiece.It was out-of-the-box thinking along withkeen attention to detail that createdthis new and interesting product. It isso simple yet it works spectacularly welland is dishwasher safe.

Gourmet Kitchenworks[tel] 417.459.4272www.gefu.us

PARRISH MINI-RING MOLDSPerfect for the holidays, Mini-Ring Moldsfrom Parrish's Cake Decorating SuppliesInc. are ideal for baking, molding andcutting cakes, mousses, tortes orcheesecakes. They are available inround, oval, teardrop, heart, hexagonand comma shapes. All molds aremade of heavy-gauge aluminum.Suggested Retail Price: $5-8 (minimumorder $50)

Parrish's Cake Decorating Supplies Inc.[tel] 310.324.2253 or 800.736.8443

DOCTOR WHO TARDIS TEA POTThe Doctor Who TARDIS tea pot is aterrific gift idea for the sci-fi fan in yourhousehold. This tea pot is the latest in acool line of novelty items from Wesco.It holds 25 ounces (750ml) of tea and isceramic with sculpted highlights.

Wescowww.popcultcha.com.au

HOLIDAY UPDATE 21

LE PARFAIT FRENCH JARS & TERRINESFirst impressions are as important inmarketing products as they are in life,and nothing says “quality” like specialtyglass containers that allow the consumerto easily view the contents. Whether youpack spices, jams, lotions, candies, nuts,sauces or baking mixes, the newestproduct offerings will catch theconsumer’s eye if packaged in thesophisticated French jars knows as LeParfait—“the perfect.” Bring your productto market using the classic Le Parfait jarsand terrines—containers that have beenwidely used in Europe for more than 70years and are imported by BannexInternational, Inc. Products packed in LeParfait will appeal to consumers whorecognize the environmental value ofthis packaging; the jars can be recycledfor many household storage uses andcan be resealed again and again.Reusable packaging allows consumersto be proactive for a green environmentas they embrace top-quality foods orother specialty items. Great productsdeserve great packaging, so whetheryours is a new brand or one that is well-established, look to glass and explore itspossibilities in packaging andpresentation. With their wide variety ofapplications, Le Parfait jars and terrinesare sure to make a memorableimpression on your customers and boostconsumption of your products.

Bannex International Inc.[email] sales@bannex.comwww.bannex.com

SCI GARGANELLI PASTA BOARDSCI is proud to share its GarganelliPasta Board. Garganelli is a very rareItalian pasta. This beechwoodgarganelli pasta board comes with athick knurled rolling stick to get theperfect groove with ease. The boardis 3.5" x 6" and the stick is 7.5" long. Itis made in Italy.

SCI Cuisine Internationale [tel] 800.966.5489www.scandicrafts.com

HOLIDAY UPDATE22 www.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

ISLAND BAMBOO SOLID BAMBOO CUTTING BOARDSCarve, chop, mince and slice on IslandBamboo’s new solid bamboo cuttingboards, then flip them over for serving. Handcrafted from solid culmsof Moso bamboo, the finish is beautifullysmooth with nodes that are naturallycharacteristic of bamboo. The solidbamboo cutting board series featuresa no glue surface and is available infour sizes: bar – 8" x 6"; utility – 11" x 9";cutting – 14" x 11" and carving – 18" x12". The lightweight bar board has ahole for hanging so you can display itnear the prep sink or bar while thecarving board has a larger ergonomichandle to carry meat and poultry. Theutility and cutting boards are lightweightand double sided with gravy grooveson one side and a smooth surface onthe other that is perfect for serving. IslandBamboo™ cutting boards are safe forfine chef’s knives, are naturallyantimicrobial and, with proper care, willnot warp, stain or split. Add the speciallyformulated Bamboo Renew to yourorder—an add-on sale sure to help yourcustomers maintain the luster andbeauty of their bamboo kitchenware.Island Bamboo has the largest selectionof bamboo kitchenware, products thatare thoughtfully produced for everydayuse, gift giving and entertaining.

Island Bamboo[tel] 949.492.9921www.islandbamboo.com

KITCHENHAPPY’S SNAPIThe Snapi® by KitchenHappy™ saysit’s: “The fun way to serve food”—andsales definitely prove it. RosanneBrown, who owns Venice Stationers,said she’s seen it in action duringrecord sales at her Venice, Fla. shop.“It’s the best seller we have ever had,in 15 years of business. We’re avolume store and we’ve never hadany product sell this much, this fast.”It’s hard for Rosanne to single out justone Snapi feature responsible for therecord sales. She explains, “It has agreat story, it shows Americaningenuity, it’s well-made, thepackaging is exceptional, and it’sincredibly fun and functional. Snapi’svery clever.” Though Snapi is soldthroughout the United States,Snowbirds visiting Florida find that it’sa perfect souvenir. Rosanne summedup Snapi’s myriad attributes simply,“KitchenHappy did everything right,all the way.” Snapi comes in eightcolors. It has a convenient open/closelocking mechanism for easy storageand is BPA-free and dishwasher safe.Suggested Retail Price: Under $10

KitchenHappy[tel] 248.453.5177wholesale.kitchenhappy.com

VITA CRAFT WAHAUS COLLECTIONThe Wahaus Collection by Vita Craft isa true gem. This six-piece set ofcookware is not only beautiful andclassic, but versatile. This deep, stainlesssteel chef set can go from range topto tabletop in minutes. The WahausCollection is made up of a set of threeDeep Chef Pans, an 8" Deep Chef, a10" Deep Chef and a 13" Deep Chef.The series comes with stainless steelcovers with optional stainless steelknobs and flame guards. Glass coversare also available. The WahausCollection features waterless, greaselesscooking and carries a true Vita CraftLifetime Warranty. This fine cookware ismade in the U.S.A.

Vita Craft[tel] 913.631.6265www.vitacraft.com

VITACLAY SMART ORGANIC MULTI-COOKER WITH YOGURT MAKER When was the last time you made a trulynutritious home-cooked meal for thewhole family? What if you had the timeand energy to prepare delicious, wholefood meals every day? Do you thinkyou’d need to hire a personal chef?Think again! Let VitaClay® create hearty,nutritious meals while you work, sleep ortake a walk—talk about multi-tasking!Cook grains, soup or economy cuts ofmeat to perfection without effort, hassleor excessive expense. VitaClay’s gotdinner covered! Joining the VitaClay lineis the soon to be released VitaClay SmartOrganic Multicooker, featuring a yogurtmaker―or low temperature cooker―designed to preserve important nutrientsand vitamins and keep enzymes activethroughout cooking. Now you can makeyour own favorite yogurt at home withno fuss. Are you tired of non-stickcoatings? Are you looking for perfectrice, grains, steel oats, broth, beans andstew every time? Discover the wonderof clay: no need for added water or oil;the clay naturally preserves texture,flavor, vitamins and taste. Whethercooking for a few or the whole crew,your nutritious, whole meal is just minutesaway with VitaClay.

VitaClay[tel] 877.877.9121www.vitaclaychef.com

BOUCLÉ BY CHILEWICHBouclé features a very rich texture thatprovides visual interest without thepattern being too dominating. Theoriginal concept for the design was thedesire to interpret the luxury of fineknitwear into a woven textile that wasdurable, modern and easy to clean.Perfect for indoor and outdoor use, thetextiles are available in five colors: salt,pebble, grey, coffee and ink and twosizes: 14" x 19" rectangle placemats anda 14" x 72" table runner. They are madein the U.S.A.

Chilewich | Sultan LLC[tel] 212.679.9204www.chilewich.com

VACU VIN LAYERING TOOLThe creation of a beautifully layeredcocktail with drama and color hasbeen primarily in the domain ofprofessional bartenders. Not anymore.The new layering tool by Vacu Vin letsthe amateur bartender create theperfect layered cocktail without specialtraining. Party hosts and hostesses cannow create colorful cocktails at homefor friends and family. The design of thefunnel slows down fluids as they arepoured into a glass and variations inthe density of the fluids create thelayers. The measurements on the funnelof the tool are based on the mostpopular layered cocktails and areuseful guides for the amateur bartenderto use when creating a cocktail. Thelayering tool is dishwasher safe and therubber connector on the tool can beremoved for thorough rinsing afterevery cocktail.Suggested Retail Price: $10

International Innovations Company USA[tel] 704.882.3521www.vacuvin.nl

PREPARA ICE BALLSPrepara presents Ice Balls, an ingeniousalternative to the typical ice cube tray.These spill-proof spherical molds makeperfect 2" round orbs of ice and alsobecome the starting point for anendless list of fun and originalhomemade, ice-infused recipes. Putthe fruit or the herb of choice in theIce Ball, close it up, fill it with water,juice, or any other beverage throughthe convenient opening seal on top,throw them in the freezer and voila—the perfect “ice-breaker” for a holidayparty!Since the ice they produce iscompletely sealed and won’t absorbodors from the freezer, Ice Balls are theeasiest way to create fresh and pristineice. Additionally, Ice Balls can beconveniently and simply stored,individually or snapped together, foreasy organization. Ice Balls come infour fun and stylish colors: lime, lemon,raspberry and tangerine. Suggested Retail Price: $9.99 (pack of 4)

Prepara[tel] 888.878.8665www.prepara.com

CHANTAL TRAVEL MUGChantal introduces new colors for theTravel Mug. The single-touch buttonallows you to drink from any side andyou can rest easy knowing that asilicone seal will prevent spills of anykind. The vacuum insulation means thisthermal mug will actually keep abeverage hot or cold for up to sevenhours. It is BPA-free with a 15 oz.capacity and is available with two newcolor bands: chili red and emeraldgreen in addition to the original blue.

Chantal[tel] 800.365.4354 www.chantal.com

HOLIDAY UPDATE 23

DEXAS TURBO FAN SALAD SPINNER-DRYERSThe Turbo Fan Salad Spinner-Dryer fromDexas looks radically different fromother salad spinners on the market. Itfeatures a multi-blade “turbo fan” andair intake system that spins up quicklyto pull large volumes of air into thespinner, while more thoroughly dryinggreens. At the base of the outer bowl,there are large air and water exit ports,for in-sink spinning, which completelyexpels dirty rinse water. The result iscleaner, drier greens that are ready toserve in less time. Consumers are stilltrending toward preparing more foodsat home, while seeking more fresh fruitand vegetable preparation options, sothis innovation is sure to hit the spot.Leafy, dark greens like kale and spinachprovide the maximum nutritional benefitamong all greens. The Dexas Turbo FanSalad Spinner-Dryer also features apush-button brake and a large 5-quartcapacity inner basket. The Turbo Fanblades are easy to take apart for hand-washing and the entire spinner/dryer isBPA-free. Both the outer bowl and thespinner basket are dishwasher-safe.

Dexas[tel] 800.527.5197www.dexas.com

GAMAGO'S TELEPHOTO KITCHEN TIMERCulinary and photography aficionadoswill rejoice at this new kitchen timerstyled after a camera lens. This timeris incredibly detailed and will be sureto make every meal picture-perfect.The Telephoto Kitchen Timer comespackaged in a nifty clear box so youcan view the design without havingto take it out of its packaging. Thetimer measures 3.25" x 2.5" in diameterand will be available August/September 2012.Suggested Retail Price: $14

GAMAGO[tel] 415.626.0213www.gamago.com

BUYERS GUIDE www.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW24

BUYERS GUIDEsmall electrics

Vita-Prep 3 by Vita-Mix

The Vita-Prep 3, trusted by chefs and culinaryschools worldwide, provides unmatchedperformance when puréeing, grinding,chopping and more. Variable controls andthe patented accelerator tool allows foreasy processing of dense ingredients atexactly the right speed. The Vita-Prep 3creates a vortex, forcing ingredients up fromthe blades and back down the center intothe blades again for perfectly blendedresults. With a removable lid plug, allingredients can be added while blendingfor ultimate speed and convenience. Theadvanced cooling fan and sound reductionpad lessens noise irritation and overheating.

Vita-Mix[tel] 800.848.2649www.vitamix.com

Waring Pro Vero Barista Espresso Maker

Enjoy lattes, espresso or cappuccino athome with the Waring Pro Vero BaristaEspresso Maker. The espresso makerfeatures sleek chrome housing, 15 bars ofpressure, a 42 oz. removable clear-viewwater tank, dual steam wand and hotwater dispenser, a removable drip trayfor easy clean up and a tamping tool. Italso includes a pod filter holder andground filter holder for different types ofespresso. The large cup warming plateallows for an optimal espresso-drinkingexperience. The unit includes a limitedfive year motor warranty.

Waring Prowww.waringpro.com

Chef Pro is pleased to announce thearrival of a new powerful grinder thatcan grind dry and moist food in onlya few seconds. Grind ingredients likecoffee beans, flaxseed or spices tomake unique spice rubs. It can alsobe used to crush nuts—to, forexample, make peanut butter athome—purée basil to make freshpesto sauce or grind garbanzo beansto make fresh hummus. Whip upmany exotic foods with this veryversatile wet and dry grinder. A must-have for every kitchen, the Chef Prowet and dry grinder is made ofstainless steel and has a powerful 350watt motor. The stainless steel cupdoes not retain odors from previously ground foods and the grinder cupand cover are removable and dishwasher safe, making clean up easy. Thegrinder has three speeds: pulse, low and high. The clear cover allows forvisibility, and the motor does not turn on until the lid is locked into positionfor added safety.Suggested Retail Price $79.99

Mercantile International[tel] 732.650.9400 or 855.243.3776www.chefprousa.com

Chef Pro Wet & Dry Grinder

Mastrad, the French-based companyspecializing in inventive and functionalkitchen products, has revolutionizedthe cooking world yet again—with theThermo-Sensor Spoon, a high qualityversion of a basic kitchen necessity.Sleek and as easy on the eyes as it is touse, the Thermo-Sensor Spoon makestime spent in the kitchen simpler forrecreational and professional chefsalike. Featuring a one-of-a-kind designand various cooking applications, this new kitchen accessory is high qualityand convenient. The Thermo-Sensor Spoon is a combination of a removablespoon―perfect for stirring food―and an electronic kitchen thermometer thatdigitally calculates the temperature of the food to the exact degree andconstantly monitors its temperature while it cooks. Perfect when used separatelyor as one piece, the Thermo-Sensor Spoon is a must-have item for any cook. Suggested Retail Price: $30

Mastrad Inc.[tel] 800.358.0608 www.mastrad.us

Mastrad Thermo-Sensor Spoon

Franklin Chef™ will introduce anexciting array of products for the 2012season, including their 10-speed, 7-function Professional Series blender.Boasting almost 1 horsepower of rawblending power, this blender is anideal fit for today’s health-consciousconsumer. Available early September2012, the Professional Series blenderwill offer consumers outstandingperformance, with its ample 50 oz.,dishwasher-safe glass pitcher andpowerful stainless steel blades, as wellas 700 watts of blending power forall grinding, crushing and blendingneeds. With its modern stainless steeldesign, blue LED backlit functions and stylish stainless control buttons, thisappliance is the perfect countertop addition.

Franklin Chef USA[tel] 305.403.8517www.franklinchefusa.com

Franklin Chef Professional Series Blender

As versatile as it is portable, the TribestPersonal Blender allows you to blend,grind and mix multiple recipes in theperfect portions. Whether it’s a fruitsmoothie to jump-start your day, amix of salsa to kick off kick-off, or theperfect grind of coffee beans for anightcap, the Personal Blender canaccommodate. The Personal Blendercomes portioned with 8 oz., 16 oz.and 23 oz. blending containersallowing for minimal mess, easy clean up, and the ease of taking your drinkon the go—a perfect addition to any kitchen. With the Tribest PersonalBlender, life’s a whole lot tastier.

Tribest Corporation[tel] 714.879.7150www.tribest.com

Tribest Personal Blender

BUYERS GUIDEsmall electrics

BUYERS GUIDEwww.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 25

CUISINART ICE CREAM & GELATO MAKER

Make lusciously rich gelato and ice creamright at home! The Cuisinart Ice Cream andGelato Maker has a commercial qualitycompressor-freezer, so it’s always ready togo. Separate paddles for gelato and icecream, and fully automatic operation witha 60-minute countdown timer, ensure perfectconsistencies and professional results.

Cuisinartwww.cuisinart.com

Fagor Slow Juicer

Fagor America is pleased to unveil the newestaddition to its small electrics family—the FagorSlow Juicer. It is extremely efficient, easy touse and is quieter in comparison to itspredecessors. It uses a 2-step process in whichthe juice is extracted from the fruit orvegetable twice before it enters your glass.The auger, the main component of the unit,precisely squeezes the food without shreddingor grinding it, preserving antioxidants andhelping you to get more juice in your glass.

Fagor Americawww.fagoramerica.com

Let VitaClay® create hearty, nutritiousmeals while you work, sleep or takea walk—talk about multi-tasking!Cook grains, soup or economy cutsof meat to perfection without effort,hassle or expense. Joining theVitaClay line is the soon to bereleased VitaClay Smart OrganicMulticooker, featuring a yogurtmaker—or low temperature cooker—that is designed to preserve important nutrients and vitamins and keepenzymes active throughout cooking. Now you can make your own favoriteyogurt at home with no fuss. Whether cooking for a few or the whole crew,your nutritious, whole meal is just minutes away with VitaClay.

VitaClay[tel] 877.877.9121www.vitaclaychef.com

VitaClay Smart Organic Multicooker with Yogurt Maker

Weston Products has partnered withCelebrity Chef Michael Symon tocreate the “Live to Cook” ProfessionalAdvantage Vacuum Sealer. With a210 watt, fan-cooled motor; thispremium vacuum sealer delivers 23"HG vacuum strength, and is designednot to overheat for consistent, reliablesealing. It is equipped to meet any home chef’s needs, featuring marinate,manual seal and accessory modes and the brushed stainless steel finishmakes it an attractive addition to any countertop. Accompanying thevacuum sealer is a line of vacuum canisters and bags in attractive retailpackaging for a complete merchandising solution. They are ideal for quicklymarinating fresh foods and flash pickling.Suggested Retail Price: $199.99

Weston Products[tel] 800.814.4895www.westonproducts.com

Professional Advantage Vacuum Sealer

MarketwatchMARKETWATCH26 www.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

sustainability

of sustainability, and I’m excited to sharethis curated collection with retailattendees,” Shaw continues.

“A variety of products will be exhibited inthe summer display ranging from organicteas, to tabletop accessories, to personalbody care. If the materials are organic,non-toxic, recycled or recyclable, and themanufacturing processes follow fair tradestandards and the suppliers are sociallyresponsible, you will find these productson display,” says Shaw.

Among the wide variety of productsselected for SustainAbility are: the BoxPlay for Kids LLC sets which transformused boxes, milk cartons, etc. intoplaythings, with stickers made with 100%recycled uncoated paper; the MossTerrarium Bottle™ by Potting ShedCreations, Ltd., which utilizes recycledrestaurant wine bottles; the Drink Chillersstay-cool coasters by Sea Stones LLCmade of natural stone, recycled glass, andrecycled rubber; the Vapur Element “anti-bottles” from Vapur, Inc. made of FDA-approved polyethylene and nylon; and the

Monday, August 20, from 12:00 p.m. –1:30 p.m., Dirk Olin, Editor of Corporate Responsibility Magazine, will moderate “Social Responsibility: TheNew Metrics for Sustainability.” This program presents an overview ofsocial responsibility and its seven corecomponents, measurement techniques andprinciples of philanthropy. Panelistsinclude Nathan Gilbert of B Lab;Madeline Kreider Carlson of the FairTrade Federation; and Susan Inglis of theSustainable Furniture Council.

On Tuesday, August 21, from 12:00 p.m.– 1:00 p.m., the Fair Trade Federationpresents “Mythbusting: Fair Trade & YourCustomer.” The discussion will addresswhat fair trade is, and more specificallywhat fair traders do to make a differencein the lives of craftspeople. The panel willbe moderated by Fair Trade FederationProgram Director, Madeline KreiderCarlson, and will include representativesof Fair Trade Federation. Tickets for eachsession are $20 in advance and $25 on site.Advance registration is available online atwww.nyigf.com/programs.

“If we do not live in a sustainable way,this earth will not sustain,” says Shaw, onthe importance of sustainability. “We haveno choice.”

stylish line of table runners from CAKEVintage Table & Home made of recycledkraft paper.

“Sustainability means responsible andconscious manufacturing and buyinghabits,” explains Shaw. “It means a respectfor our planet and local environmentsthrough the use of intelligent renewablematerial and energy resources.Sustainability means support of the world’slabor force with fair wages and workingconditions. It means contribution anddedication to charitable endeavors.Ultimately, sustainability means educated,concerned and responsible decisions andchoices made with awareness to the well-being of ourselves and others.”

The SustainAbility display will showcasesustainable materials and productionprocesses from various exhibitorsparticipating in Artisan Resource™, a newGLM-managed trade show matchingartisanal craft producers and productionresources with U.S.-based volumeimporters, direct import retailers andwholesalers, which runs concurrently withNYIGF, August 19-21, at Pier 92.

The SustainAbility display iscomplemented by a two-part seminarfocusing on “green” topics. On

Green(Cont. from Page 1)

BAMBU BAMBOO & CORK SALT CANISTERbambu continues with its innovative“renewable ideas” concept by bringingtogether two sustainable materials intoone design solution. The bamboo andcork canisters are handsomelydesigned, making this “double green”salt cellar at home on the kitchencounter or on an elegantly laid table.The cork lid fits snuggly, making an air-tight seal that is still easy to remove withone hand. The bamboo and cork saltcanister is a featured product in theSustainAbility: Design for a Better Worldexhibition in August 2012.Suggested Retail Price: $14

bambuwww.bambuhome.com

HENRI THE OWL MOONLIGHT CLOCKLegnomagia (through their US agent,Arbiter) presents a new collectionfeaturing their baby owl mascotnamed Henri, who lives in animaginary forest inspired by the art ofHenri Rousseau.Moonlight is awall clock in theshape of a treein which Henri isperched underthe moonlight.The hours areindicated bycopper nails andsilver-coloredmetal hourhands. On thetop is a glitterymirror moon. Itis available ineither naturalwalnut orbeech. All ofLegnomagia’sproducts are handmade utilizingsustainably harvested Europeanhardwoods finished with beeswax ornon-toxic finishes or colors. Allpackaging is recycled.

Arbiter[tel] 314.963.1919www.arbitercollection.com

POTTING SHED CREATIONS TERRARIUM BOTTLECombining smart design and sustain-able materials to create a moderninterpretation of the classic terrarium,these indoor garden collections containeverything needed to grow a woodlandmoss-scape or tapestry of sedum in ahandmade 8.5" x 3" repurposed winebottle. The terrarium includes moss: a mixof dormant broom, cushion and sheetmoss; or sedum: a dwarf sedum blend. Italso includes OMRI listed soil, recycledglass pebbles for drainage, a bamboo“chopstick” tool and base, a ribbon bandfor the base and directions.Suggested Retail Price: $38.00

Potting Shed Creations Ltd.www.pottingshedcreations.com

RE-PLAY’S CHILDREN’S TABLEWARERe-Play is a unique line of children’stableware made in the USA fromrecycled milk jugs. Re-Play has receivedhigh praise from families looking for anearth-friendly alternative that is durable,affordable and safe. The recycledplastic used for all Re-Play products isspecially selected and cleaned tomeet the FDA’s strict purity standardsso not only are they stylish and colorful,Re-Play is sustainable, with materialsand manufacturing being mainly in thesoutheast. They currently offer dividedplates, bowls, utensils and no-spill cupsin four colors: aqua, pink, green andorange. Re-Play is also top rackdishwasher safe.Suggested Retail Price: 3-pack dividedplate-$6.49; 3-pack bowl-$4.99; 2-packcup-$6.99; 8-pack utensils-$3.49

Re-Think It Inc.[email] sales@re-play.comwww.re-play.com

SEA STONES SERVES UP COOL CORDIALSWhen it’s time to serve up chilled spirits,there’s no need to water things down.Take this solid granite tray of elegantcordial glasses out of the freezer andserve your favorite drinks chilled andundiluted by ice. The handmade setsecurely houses the heavy-bottomedglasses in holes bored into reclaimedgranite slabs. The slabs have plenty ofthermal mass to hold the cold longenough for leisurely sipping and therecycled rubber jacket protectssurfaces. The glasses are perfect forflavored vodkas, liqueurs and otherspirits, as well as chilled miniaturedesserts such as mousse.Suggested Retail Price: $40

Sea Stoneswww.sea-stones.com

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drinkware, kitchen gadgets and accessories,and serving products. We are alwaysdesigning and redesigning kitchen productsfor the home and professional chef!”

Morgan also offers predictions about whathe thinks will be popular at the show, sayingthe trend is: “Bright, bold and eye-catching;innovative, yet practical kitchen productsand gadgets seem to be what the currentcustomer is looking for, along with quickand healthy ideas for gourmet cooking�which fits greatly into the Mastrad line.”

Sharing the floor with Mastrad at the Gourmet Housewares Show isOnOurTable, a new exhibitor at booth 3676that specializes in hand-crafted wood cuttingboards and butcher blocks. “We are thrilledto show our work for the first time. We aredebuting our collection of cutting and

charcuterie boards, handmade in solid walnutand maple,” says Geoffrey Lilge, Founderand Designer for OnOurTable. “Thecollection has been in the works for two yearsand we feel we're ready to put it out into theworld.”

Overall, the show's organizers expect greatthings from this year's show. “The GourmetHousewares Show at NYIGF is both largerand sold-out for its second annual edition,and excitement and expectations are highfor summer 2012,” says ChristianFalkenberg, NYIGF Director and GLMVice-President. “We hope to attract morespecialty kitchenware retailers who areseeking a concentration of key brands, aswell as a wide range of complementaryresources offered throughout NYIGF. Ourexhibitors know that the show affords themaccess to thousands of smaller independentgift and home retail outlets who they mightnot see at other markets.”

The Gourmet Housewares show runs August 19-22 at the Jacob K. JavitsConvention Center.

Housewares(Cont. from Page 1)

GIFTWARE 27

HARRY BARKER HELVETICA COLLECTIONWhile the Helvetica type font wasdesigned in 1957, it remains theultimate emblem of modern design.It’s a contemporary classic! And nowHarry Barker, the global pet productcompany, has introduced a newHelvetica Collection: Harry Barker’sHelvetica Collection. This collectionapplies the famous font to a wide variety of products, including bowls, food canisters, treat tins, beds and play balls. When buyers seethem, they’re going to say, “I wantwhat Harry’s having!” Harry Barkercreates, manufactures and distributesinnovative and cheerful products fordogs and cats. The company’scommitment to sustainable practicesand materials has been honored bynumerous awards, including NYIGF’sprestigious Sustainability3 Award.Products include collars, leashes, beds,toys, treats, food storage canisters,bowls, treat tins and dog spa products.Harry Barker was founded in 1997 byits president Carol Perkins, a formerFord model and fire eater.

Harry Barker[tel] 800.444.8779www.harrybarker.com

GOURMET SEA SALT COLLECTIONReflecting the expanding palate forfood flavors from throughout the world,The Spice Lab’s award-winning GourmetSalt Collections offer unique sampler giftpacks and are offered in 4, 6 or 11 testtube sets, filled with exotic sea salts fromall corners of the earth. Each Pyrex testtube with all-natural cork stopper holdsa different specialty salt, attractivelydisplayed in an American-made, hand-crafted wooden base constructed fromrecycled lumber. Tubes contain from 0.6 to 1.3 oz. of salt, depending on itsdensity, with most having over 1 oz. ofsea salt. A reference card offerssuggestions on which salts go with whichdishes and a bamboo salt spoon is alsoincluded. The Spice Lab’s Sea SaltCollections have earned a covetedSilver sofi Award as Outstanding FoodGift from the National Association of theSpecialty Food Trade (NASFT) and aScovie Award. They have also beenfeatured in numerous magazines,including leading the O List in the June2012 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine.Suggested Retail Price: $24.95–59.95

The Spice Lab[tel] 954.275.4478www.thespicelab.com

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MASTRAD’S GOURMET WHIPPERSMastrad, creator of stylish and innovativekitchenware accessories, will showcasean array of new product offerings at thisyear’s New York International Gift Fair(NYIGF). The company will be presentingtheir full line of cream and gourmetwhippers as well as nitrous-oxidechargers, whipper stand, recipe bookand foldable, double-mesh strainer andfunnel. These premium whippers yieldfour times the amount of cream pouredinto them, and are capable of storingfresh whipped cream in the refrigeratorfor up to two weeks. Available in twosizes, the cream whippers have analuminum exterior casing, enameledinterior coating and a plastic head andtips. Perfect for making cold creams andmousses, the cream whippers provide asimpler and convenient way to createyour favorite desserts. Offered in threesizes, the hot and cold gourmet whippersboast an enameled exterior casing andinterior coating, a silicone ring inside thehead and plastic tips. These gourmetwhippers create delectable hot or cold,sweet or savory creams, sauces andmousses. Effective now until January 31, 2013, customers can redeem acomplementary Mastrad mousse recipebook with the purchase of any whipper.Qualified retailers will receive a Mastradwhipper tear-pad to display in stores.

Mastrad, Inc.[tel] 800.358.0608www.mastrad.us

STARFRIT’S DOUBLE WALL THERMO GLASSESCanada’s leading purveyor of kitchenpreparation products introduces thewhimsical double wall thermo glasses,a classic glass collection that bringssummer drinks experience to anotherlevel! Made of quality borosilicate glass,the double wall thermo glasses aresupremely stable and perfect for anyhot or cold beverages. The isolationbarrier of the double wall thermoglasses keeps beverages at an optimaltemperature longer than any otherstandard glass can. This barrier of airalso prohibits the glass from “sweating”and leaving a river of condensation onthe table top. The glasses are perfectfor chilly desserts or warm appetizers.The collection offers a wide range ofglasses, including Swizl soda glasses,martini glasses, wine glasses, tea cups,espresso cups and beer mugs, just tomention a few. The collection alsofeatures a coffee mug with silicone lidand ring. These coffee mugs aredesigned for easy coffee-to-go. Thesilicone ring provides a better grip toprevent slipping and breaking. They arecurrently available in green, purple,blue and red. To add luster to theirshine, these beautiful glasses are alsodishwasher safe.Suggested Retail Price: starting at $8.99

Starfritwww.starfritusa.com

TALISMAN DESIGNS GET REAL NATURE BEECHWOOD UTENSILSTalisman Designs’ Get Real™beechwood utensils are made of solidbeechwood. Each utensil is 12" long andproduced from a responsibly managedforest. They are specially handcraftedwith a theme that features the naturalbeauty of nature, such as little singingbirds, wide-eyed owls, delicate treebranches and fully bloomed flowers.Each unique design is permanentlyetched into the wood and will neverfade. The utensils will not scratch ordamage non-stick cookware and arehand-wash only for a lifetime of beauty.

Talisman Designs[tel] 952.681.2866www.talismandesigns.com

HIGHWAVE WINE TIME CAPSULE™Now you don't need that bulky icechest to keep a bottle of chilled winefor an evening concert in your hot carall day long! The innovative HighwaveWine Time Capsule holds your 25 oz.bottle of chilled wine or water in asuspended temperature vacuum forup to 10 hours, and keeps it perfect fortravel or serving where glass is notallowed or appropriate. The wine timecapsule doesn't sweat, and very littletemperature change occurs, leavingyour wine just as good as when youput it in. Keep your room temperaturered wine at room temperature andtake it poolside easily and with style.Available exclusively from Highwave ofCalifornia, the wine time capsule isavailable in three colors and is sold bulkwith product labels.

Highwave[tel] 800.444.4928www.highwave.com

CHEF PRO PEPPERMILLSChef Pro Peppermills have an ingeniousautomatic base that opens when youtwist the peppermill to grind and closesautomatically when you stop grinding.The peppermills have convenientcovers on the top for easy refilling,which helps to keep tables free fromspills. The ergonomic design allows forgrinding by twisting back and forth. Thepeppermills feature a ceramic grindingmechanism and seven patentedcoarseness settings that are precise andeasy to use—perfect for grindingpeppercorn, salt or dried herbs. ChefPro peppermills are available in plasticand stainless steel.Suggested Retail Price: $19.99–Plastic;$29.99–Stainless Steel

Mercantile International NA[tel] 855.243.3776www.chefprousa.com

PRE-SEASONED CAST IRON PANSSCI has reinvented cast iron pans. Pre-seasoned to save you a step, with evenheating and long-lasting heat retention,they easily provide consistent results.Not only are these pans easy to use,but cleaning them is even easier. Newstyles and shapes are available now.

SCI Cuisine Internationale[tel] 800.966.5489www.scandicrafts.com

BARBARA SHAW GIFTS TABLE NAPKINSBarbara Shaw Gifts creates bold, brightdesigns for the Jewish home and family.Fun patterns and witty sayings graceuseful products in textile, ceramic andglass; updating tradition with designsthat will make you smile. This set of fourhand-printed and sewn table napkinsfeatures a repeating graphic of freshJaffa oranges that will bring a greatpop of color to any table setting. The19" x 19" napkins are packaged with awide ribbon and gift tag, making themready for easy gifting.Suggested Retail Price: $35

Barbara Shaw Gifts[email] barbshaw@gmail.comwww.barbarashawgifts.com

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nyigf/gourmet housewares

FULL CIRCLE’S SMART RACKThe Smart Rack adjustable andfoldable dish rack is a one-of-a kindinnovation that makes using your dishrack possible for any combination ofpots, pans, glasses, dishes, and virtuallyanything you clean in your sink! The fourrows of prongs collapse to cater to thedifferent shapes and sizes of all yourkitchenware. Slide the drying tray outfrom underneath for glasses and mugs,collapse all 4 rows for pots and pans,or stack dishes, cups, bottles, andmore—all at the same time. The rackcompletely folds into itself for quick andconvenient storage. The Smart Rackcomes in two nature inspired colors:grass green and bright graphite.Suggested Retail Price: $34.99

Full Circle[tel] 718.305.1754www.fullcirclehome.com

VITAQUICK BY FISSLERWith over 55 years of pressure cookerexperience, Fissler presents the nextstep in “fast food”: Vitaquick®, arevolutionary pressure cooker,redesigned from the ground up. Cookswill love the German innovations thatmake pressure cooking more user-friendly by increasing speed, improvingappearance and eliminating oldpressure cooking fears. With its sleekdesign and innovative construction, theVitaquick pressure cooker line is perfectfor both newcomers to pressurecooking and pros alike. The UL-listedVitaquick pressure cookers are safe,simple to use and especially easy toclean. Unlike the pressure cookers ofthe past, each Vitaquick pressurecooker is silent under pressure andfeatures multiple safety mechanismsincluding an automatic pressure valveso you can relax while the cookerprepares perfect meals for you in notime. This series is perfect for easilypreparing foods of all kinds in a healthy,gentle and nutritious manner. With theFissler Vitaquick, consumers can feelgood about eating more “fast food.”With both speed and gentle settings,even delicate foods like fish can bepressure-cooked quickly and easily—without damaging the food. Vitaquickis 100 percent made in Germany, fullydishwasher-safe and comes with alifetime warranty.

Fissler USA[tel] 888.347.7537www.fisslerusa.com

LS ARTS REPUBLICAN ELEPHANT & DEMOCRAT DONKEY BOTTLE STOPPERSNo matter what your political standingsmight be, we’re sure you can allagree—these 2012 limited editionDemocrat donkey and Republicanelephant bottle stoppers deserve yourvote! Each piece is uniquely hand-crafted by skilled artisans andindividually gift-boxed, making it theperfect gift for the political junkie onyour gift list.

LS Arts Inc.[tel] 877.929.1414www.lsarts.com

JOY STEMBER CANDLESTICKSThis pair of candlesticks is a greataddition to any home. They arefabricated from pewter and brass andcome with two sets of brass inserts—one for standard-sized Shabbatcandles and one set for traditionaltapered candles. The texture isembossed using a rolling mill. Othertextures are available to accent anyhome décor or table setting.

Joy Stember Metal Arts Studio[tel] 215.885.2930www.joystember.com

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personal care

HUMIO HUMIDIFIER & NIGHT LAMPWITH AROMA OIL COMPARTMENTThe Tribest Humio Humidifier and NightLamp, with aroma oil compartment,is elegantly designed to offer asoothing and relaxing ambience ofshaded colors that softly illuminatesand adds style to any room’s décor.Dispel stress and physical strainsthrough subtle hints of lavender oreucalyptus essential oils. With no filtersneeded, the Humio helps ease thesymptoms of dry skin, throat, nose andlips by improving air quality—one roomat a time. Users can breathe easy andbask in the silence and serenity of theultrasonic cool mist as they enhancethe level of comfort at home.Suggested Retail Price: $99.95

TribestLife[tel] 714.879.7150www.tribestlife.com

personal care products are re-imaginingwhat it means to be pampered.

The move toward aromatherapy productswas perhaps the first major evolution inpersonal care gifts. Aromatherapyemphasizes the health and wellnessbenefits inherent in certain aromaticcompounds. Bath and beauty companiesare introducing specialized ingredientssuch as tea tree oil, rosewater, chamomileand lemongrass into their products in aneffort to improve consumers’ cognitive,physical and emotional wellbeing.

However, aromatherapy was really onlythe beginning of a larger industry movetowards producing hygiene and beautyproducts that stretch beyond their expectedtasks of cleansing, perfuming andbeautifying the body. Today’s consumerhas grown to expect a product that actuallypromotes health, longevity and mental

acuity. A whole range of holistic personalcare products available today claim to doeverything from growing hair to preventingaging and detoxifying the skin.

Many of today’s most popular personal careproducts and soap and spa gifts are in factdesigned with spiritual benefits in mind.Consumers today can celebrate a stressed outcoworker’s birthday with the gift of speciallydesigned spa soaps, body oils, balms, lotionsand creams, purportedly created fromingredients that promote revitalization,balance, harmony and bliss in life.

New York-based Anjolie Ayurveda is onecompany that is transforming bath andbeauty gifts from products that merely serveto pamper the recipient into products thatrevitalize and nourish both body and soul.The company’s offerings are designedaround the traditional Hindu therapeuticpractice of Ayurveda, the sister science toyoga. Whereas yoga focuses on the physical,ayurveda employs holistic and internaltreatments to cleanse, soothe and revitalize.

“What we focus on is we use ayurvedic

herbs and oils that are therapeutic grade,”said Meryl Gabeler, co-owner with hermother Cary of Anjolie Ayurveda. “You’rehealing the skin naturally.” AnjolieAyurveda employs therapeutic gradeessential oils and exotic herbs like Neemand Neroli in creating their signature lineof soaps, body oils and body butters. Theresult is a pampering bath experience thatcombines aromatherapy and holisticmedicine to nourish the skin, relax themind and rejuvenate the spirit.

As a number of personal care productcompanies are striving to design productsthat create a more therapeutic experiencefor the consumer, there is also a movementwithin the industry towards creatingproducts that are good for the planet as awhole. Companies today are focusing oncreating items that are manufactured fromorganic and all-natural ingredients, oftenobtained through sustainable farmingpractices, and are designing their offeringswithout animal testing. In many cases, thesecompanies are even contributing in uniqueways to the communities where ingredientsare gathered and products are manufactured.

Social and environmental sustainability isan essential element of Anjolie Ayurveda’sbusiness model. “We started our businesswith the idea that we wanted to have afair trade social enterprise,” said Gabeler.“We really wanted to promote fair tradeand support women’s enterprise in India.”Anjolie Ayurveda is committed to a fairtrade business practice, sourcing allingredients not produced in the company’sown nursery directly from Indian farmersat above market price. The companypromotes sustainable farming andirrigation practices and supports thecommunities abroad where the companyoperates in other ways, providingmicroloans to female entrepreneurs andcreating new opportunities for children togo to school.

For Gabeler, an important element of bathand beauty gifts today is that the user feelsgood using them, knowing that they arenot only good for her body, but also forthe planet as a whole. She said, “Whenyou’re pampering yourself, the feeling iseven greater when you’re giving back tosomebody else.”

Bath and Beauty(Cont. from Page 1)

LILY ORGANICS FARM FRESH SKIN CARELily Organics Farm FreshSkin Care’s BalancingFacial Toner is filled withbeneficial plants andherbs to make your skinradiant! Many of theingredients are grownon Lily’s own USDAcertified organic farmnear Brighton, Colo. Theproducts are thenhandcrafted fresh intheir own USDA certifiedorganic laboratory. Thepioneers in ColoradoOrganic skincare, LilyOrganics has beengrowing and making their products thisway for over 26 years. Lily grows, anduses in the balancing toner, comfrey,which contains necrotic properties tohelp remove dead skin, tannins toreduce inflammation, mucilage thatpulls severed and wrinkled skin backtogether and helps new skin grow, andallantoin which increases the cellularreproduction needed to make themend. It is cells proliferate. What couldbe a better ingredient to use in a skincare product? The balancing toner has over nine herbs in its formulationused to clean, heal, nourish andbalance the skin. Just apply with acotton ball to remove all of the day’sstresses and residue.

Lily Organics Skin Care[tel] 303.455.4194www.lilyorganics.com

VERMONT SOAP ORGANICS ORGANIC FOAMER GIFT BAGVermont Soap Organics takes OrganicCastile Liquid Soap and makes it comeout of the dispenser as a foam, likeshaving cream. No propellants orchemical are used in the process,which forces the soap through a seriesof fine screens and mixes it with air. Ithas a wonderful feel and a smoothluxurious lather. Warning: foaming handsoap is a highly addictive organicproduct! You will quickly becomeaccustomed to the luxurious feel ofpure vegetable oil liquid soap foamedto perfection in a handy refillabledispenser. The gift bag includes a 7 oz. foamer and a 16 oz. refill.Suggested Retail Price: $17.67

Vermont Soap Organics[tel] 866.762.7482www.vermontsoap.com

EVRIHOLDER BAMBOO NATURALSEvriholder recently launchedBamboo Naturals, a new product lineof ecofriendly health and beautyaccessories made from super softbamboo fabrics. Featured itemsinclude a dual-sided washcloth, anaturally soothing headband, a super soft solange poof and ultra-moisturizing socks—all made of earth-friendly bamboo fabrics. All items are available in bamboo green and natural taupe. These items aregreat for holiday gifting, everydaypampering and creating the ultimatespa experience right at home.Suggested Retail Price: Start at $5.99

Evriholder Products[tel] 800.975.0335www.evriholder.com

Upcoming EventsUPCOMING EVENTSwww.kitchenwarenews.com n AUGUST 2012 n KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 31

Trade Show Buzz

AUGUST 20123-6 Kansas City Gift ShowGift Mart of Kansas City

Kansas City, KS, 913.687.8059www.giftmartofkansascity.com

12-15 CGTA Gift ShowToronto International Centre &Toronto Congress Centre

Toronto, Canada, 800.611.6100www.cgta.org

18-23 New York International Gift Fair + Gourmet Housewares ShowJacob K. Javits Convention CenterNew York, NY, 800.272.SHOW

www.nyigf.com

19-22 Alberta Gift ShowNorthlands Agricom

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, 877.281.0005www.albertagiftshow.com

26-29 Montreal Gift ShowPlace Bonaventure

Montreal, Quebec, Canada, 877.281.0005www.montrealgiftshow.com

SEPTEMBER 20128-10 Dallas Total Home

& Gift MarketDallas Market Center

Dallas, TX, 800.DAL.MKTSwww.dallasmarketcenter.com

21-23 Atlanta Fall Gift, Home Furnishings & Holiday Market

AmericasMart AtlantaAtlanta, GA, 800.ATL.MARTwww.americasmart.com

21-23 Chicago MarketMerchandise Mart

Chicago, IL, 800.677.6278www.shopchicagomarket.com

30-Oct. 2 Fall Gift & Home MarketL.A. Mart

Los Angeles, CA, 800.LAMART4www.lamart.com

www.californiagiftshow.com

OCTOBER 20125-8 Kansas City Gift ShowGift Mart of Kansas City

Kansas City, KS, 913.687.8059www.giftmartofkansascity.com

9-12 New York Tabletop MarketNew York Showrooms, 41 Madison, 7 West 34th,

230 Fifth Ave.New York, NY, 212.686.1203, 212.279.6063,

800.698.5617www.41madison.com, www.7wnewyork.com,

www.230fifthave.com

13-18 International Home Furnishings MarketHigh Point, NC, 336.869.1000

www.ihfc.com

Queens location has been mentioned.

This is all very much in the talking stages,but the idea has Governor Cuomo’ssupport, since he thinks he can get a newconvention center built outside Manhattanby a private developer at no cost totaxpayers. Under the proposal he floatedin his January State of the State address,Javits would be demolished to make thereal estate available for redevelopment.

The producers oftrade shows that arenow being held inJavits, which is thebusiest conventioncenter in thecountry, are aghast,particularly sincethe renovations thatdisplaced the FancyFood Show fromJavits for the pasttwo years are nearlyfinished and theextension of thesubway to a newstation across thestreet from Javits iswell under way.You’ll be hearingmuch more aboutthis from me in upcoming news pages ofGourmet News and in this column, butright now, the developer that had offeredto build a new convention center as partof a giant casino complex in Queens hasapparently backed away, and the state maybe looking for bids from other gamingindustry developers. In any case, Javits

BY LORRIE BAUMANN

As I write this, I’ve just returned homefrom the Summer Fancy Food Show, whichwas blessed by nearly perfect weather forevening strolls through downtownWashington D.C. in search of culinarydelights beyond those presented in theexhibit hall. You can read about the sofiaward winners in Gourmet News, so Iwon’t belabor that here other than toextend warm congratulations to all thewinners! I look forward to reading moreabout you and your products in futureissues of Gourmet News.

What I heard throughout the show fromexhibitors and attendees alike was a sighof relief that next year’s Fancy Food Showwill be back in Jacob Javits ConventionCenter after the completion of renovationsthat should correct the leaky roof andlighten up the building’s interior.Exhibitors are hoping that the return toNew York City will bring more visitors tothe show, and everyone will be glad to benavigating Javits’ more convenient floorplan. NASFT relocated the registrationarea into the main lobby of the southbuilding of Walter E. WashingtonConvention Center this year, but there wasno way to eliminate the trek between thetwo sets of exhibit halls occupied by theshow or the bottle-necking at the narrowescalators leading down into theunderground exhibit halls.

Fancy Food Show attendees will bedevastated to learn that there’s a proposalafoot to demolish Javits Center in favor ofa convention center to be built somewhereother than in midtown Manhattan. A

will still be standing next June and the Fancy Food Show crowd is grateful tobe returning.

In other show buzz, David Heilbrunn ofCoffee Fest reports that the June show inChicago was a tremendous success, andhe’s looking forward to future June showsin the city. Actual attendance this year was1,805 people who sampled products from190 exhibitor booths. Christopher “Nicely”Abel Alameda of Handsome Coffee

Roasters in Los Angeles took home thefirst-place trophy in the Coffee Fest 2012Latte Art World Championship Open.Kenny Smith of Sunergos Coffee inLouisville, Ky. won second place, and NickVan Slett of JP’s Coffee and Espresso andMidwest Barista School in Holland, Mich.won third. Congratulations to all!

America FeiTian.................................................14

ARY Inc. ..............................................................23

Bannex International.........................................16

Bella Tavola/The Alison Group .....................12

Chef Pro/Mercantile International................25

Cook Pro Inc.........................................................6

Core Bamboo .....................................................27

Dexas International ...........................................13

EPIC Products ...................................................17

Essenergy Inc. .....................................................20

Fissler .............................................................11, 19

Franklin Chef USA ...........................................25

Franmara..............................................................15

Full Circle............................................................12

Global Amici ......................................................21

Hewlett Manufacturing....................................10

Lindén Sweden Inc. ...........................................14

LS Arts Inc. .........................................................29

Mastrad ................................................................32

Parasia International ............................................6

Parrish’s Cake Decorating Supplies................18

Prodyne................................................................21

R.S.V.P. International ..........................................3

SCI Scandicrafts ................................................27

Starfrit ..................................................................20

Talisman Designs .................................................4

Tribest ..................................................................23

Victorinox Swiss Army........................................2

Vinaroz Cookware.............................................10

Wabash Valley Farms.........................................29

Weston/Pragotrade ...........................................16

Wilshire Industries ............................................19

ADVERTISER INDEX

C A L E N D A RTRADESHOW

A MONTHLY UPDATE ON THE GOINGS-ON AT INDUSTRY-RELATED SHOWS

Courtesy of NASFT

http://www.mastrad.us