BY JOANNE FRIEDRICK

If Rachael Ray made the Santoku knifepopular, then all of the TV cooking showscombined have boosted the visibility offine cutlery in general.

Taken with the idea of emulating thechefs they see on the Food Network, PBSand Bravo, consumers have beenoutfitting their kitchens so they can cookalong with the best. That has meantimproving the quality of their cutlery sothey can dice, chop and julienne, too.

Todd Myers, Vice President-Sales for

BY A.J. FLICK

Experts say it depends on what you needthem for, but chances are, you’ve alreadygot a few cutting boards on hand.

There may be no humbler kitchenaccessory than the good, old cuttingboard. Even the most novice of cooks hasat least one—unless you count all theobjects used in their place if a cuttingboard isn’t handy.

So it might come as a surprise to some to

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

How Many Cutting BoardsIs Enough for One Kitchen?

With Knives, Color and StyleMake the Cut in Growing Market

Continued on Page 15

SPECIALFEATURE:CUTTING BOARDSSEE PAGE 17-18

BUYERS GUIDE:KITCHENCLEANING PRODUCTSSEE PAGE 19-20

Continued on Page 21

Continued on Page 17

NEW SECTION!GIFTWARESEE PAGE 21-22

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

S E R V I N G K I T C H E N W A R E , H O U S E W A R E S A N D T A B L E T O P M A R K E T S

know that much thought and design goesinto cutting boards. And once you knowthat they come in materials more diversethan ordinary wood or plastic, in designsthat can ease kitchen tasks and in colorsthat complement the decor, amateur cooksmight just discover that they, too, needmore than one.

Most people think of wood when it comesto cutting boards. John Boos is one of the

BY A.J. FLICK

As we head into the final days of theyear, consumers are on the prowl whereverthey go for holiday gift ideas as well asproducts that will help them get throughthe inevitable year-end gatherings, fromoffice parties to gourmet dinner parties.

Last year, retail holiday sales increased 5.5percent to nearly $600 billion, thoughmost analysts expect more modest salesincreases this year. The InternationalCouncil of Shopping Centers expects

Not Too Late to Find the PerfectGiftware for Your Shelves

sales to jump by 2.2 percent in Novemberand December.

“The ICSC holiday sales forecast containsat least four messages,” said Michael P.Niemira, ICSC’s Chief Economist andVice President for Research. “One, nomatter which metric of performance isused, ICSC projects 2011 U.S. holidaysales are likely to advance at a slower pacethan in 2010 as strong economicheadwinds continue to persist. Two, the

Wüsthof-Trident of America, saidWüsthof has experienced growth in bothits high-end and value lines over the past15 years as the “foodie” craze hasskyrocketed.

Wüsthof offers both forged and stampedknives. The former fall into the higher-endcategory, with features such as heft,weight, balance and comfort being keys forshoppers. Stamped cutlery appeals to thosewho want to prep like fine chefs, but arelooking for a more economical entry point.

VOLUME 17, NUMBER 11 NOVEMBER 2011

GENERAL NEWS.....................3

PRODUCT REVIEW.................8

MARKETWATCH ...................15

RETAILER PROFILE ................10

http://www.foxrunbrands.com

GENERAL NEWSwww.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 3

Investcorp has acquired Sur La Table,a leading national kitchenware retailer withlocations across the United States.The termsof the transaction, which took place Sept. 20,were not disclosed. Sur LaTable was acquiredfrom the Behnke family and investment firmFreeman Spogli & Co. Both remain asinvestors in the company.

With its headquarters in Seattle, Sur LaTable is a multichannel retailer that sellsthrough 86 stores in the United States, as wellas through its catalog, website and giftregistry. It offers a broad selection ofkitchenware brands and products to assist inthe preparation and presentation of cooking.In addition, the company offers the largestavocational culinary instruction program inAmerica, teaching more than 100,000cooking enthusiasts a year how and what tocook at more than 25 locations.

“Sur La Table's management team, led byCEO Jack Schwefel, has built a marketleading, multichannel retailer with a uniqueproduct offering and a high level of customerservice,” said Kevin Nickelberry, a ManagingDirector at Investcorp. “We believe that SurLa Table is well positioned in its existingmarkets and has multiple opportunities forgrowth including new store expansion and e-commerce.”

Schwefel said, “I am very excited aboutour new partnership and our futuregrowth opportunities with Investcorp. Sur LaTable is the leading destination for thosewith a passion for cooking and a love for food,and will maintain the values that reflect ourcharacter and commitment to our customers,our employees and the communities in whichwe live and work.”

Morgan JosephTriArtisan Group Inc. actedas financial adviser to Investcorp, a globalprovider and manager of alternativeinvestment products. Investcorp is a leadingprovider and manager of alternativeinvestment products. Investcorp has officesin New York, London and Bahrain and ispublicly traded on the Bahrain Bourse.Investcorp has three business areas: corporateinvestment in the United States, Europe andthe Gulf; real estate investment in the UnitedStates; and global hedge funds. As of March31, Investcorp had $11.8 billion in assetsunder management.

William Blair & Co. acted assellside adviser to the Behnke family andFreeman Spogli & Co. The Seattle-basedBehnke family purchased the first SurLa Table store in 1995. Under its guidance,Sur La Table expanded from a singlelocation adding 19 stores over the followingfive years, developed the culinary

instruction program and launched thecompany's first e-commerce site.

Since its beginnings in Seattle’s Pike PlaceMarket in 1972, Sur La Table has believedthat the kitchen is the center of the home.Today, those with a passion for cooking and

Investcorp Acquires KitchenwareRetailer Sur La Table

a love for food can discover aselection of global brands in itsSur La Table stores, online atwww.surlatable.com, throughthe Sur LaTable catalog and viathe Sur La Table gift registry.

Freeman Spogli & Co. is aprivate equity firm dedicatedto investing in and partneringwith management in consumer-related companies in the

retailing, direct marketing anddistribution industries in theUnited States. Since its foundingin 1983, Freeman Spogli hasinvested more than $2.8 billionin 45 portfolio companies withaggregate transaction values ofmore than $17 billion, and ismaking investments from FSEquity Partners VI. FreemanSpogli has offices in Los Angelesand New York.

General News

GENERAL NEWS www.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW4

Cooking.com and Epicurious have partneredto provide food enthusiasts with a one-stopshopping experience that marries contentwith cooking tools. The new onlineEpicurious shop, created and managed byCooking.com, enables consumers to purchasean assortment of kitchenware and specialtyfoods tailored to the Epicurious audience and

integrated with the site’s recipes and content.

Tracy Randall, Chief Executive Officer ofCooking.com, said, “This is an excitingpartnership for Cooking.com. We believethat incorporating an e-commercefunctionality into the Epicurious siteperfectly complements their extensive

Cooking.com, Epicurious Teamon Shopping Option

Denby, a leading supplier of tableware andcookware in the United Kingdom, welcomedHRH The Princess Royal on Sept. 12 tocommemorate 200 years of potteryproduction at the original Denby site.

Princess Anne first saw displays of Denby inthe Visitor Centre’s Home Store beforetaking a tour of Derbyshire’s largest potteryto view the production processes. IainDuncan, Operations Director, showed heraround the factory and highlighted theintegration of new technology withtraditional hand skills such as the decorationon the new Halo tableware.

She also met some of the many long-servingemployees of the pottery during her tour,which concluded in the design studio.Denby’s commitment to the export marketwas emphasized by explaining thedevelopment of special pieces for individualcountries. Employees gathered to witnessthe unveiling of a plaque to commemoratethe visit by HRHThe Princess Royal, whichmarks the concluding part of Denby’sbicentenary celebrations.

Denby EntertainsRoyalty

database of unique content. It will be anintegrated shopping experience that addsconvenience and content for its audience.”

Through the new partnership, Epicuriouscurates shopping tips and gift ideas tied to thesite’s content, while Cooking.com delivers e-commerce products that are customized for thesite’s core followers. Consumers can shop forhundreds of cooking tools across a wide varietyof categories, from cookware to cookbooks, andbrowse “Epi Picks”—favorite, go-to productsselected by the experts at Epicurious.

“We are delighted to launch this uniqueintegrated food and shopping experiencewith Cooking.com,” said Beth-Ann Eason,Senior Vice President, General Manager forEpicurious. “Providing our Epicuriousaudience with a comprehensive shoppingexperience is a natural complement to theextensive and unparalleled variety of recipesoffered on the site.”

Cooking.com operates several brandedwebsites including Rachael Ray Store, PaulaDeen Store, Calphalon Store, Betty CrockerStore, Pillsbury Store, Steamy Kitchen Store,Good Bite Store and Marley Coffee.Powered By Cooking.com delivers hightouch, branded e-commerce solutions andcategory expertise, enabling partners toattract consumers, drive membership andbuild new revenue opportunities.

Cooking.com offers its customers access tomore than 60,000 products for the kitchen aswell as recipes, menus, collections and agrowing library ofmember-submitted cookingcontent. Cooking.com was founded in 1998and is based in Marina Del Rey, Calif.

Epicurious.com reaches more than 6 millionfood enthusiasts on its site every month.Through more than 180,000 recipes frompremier brands in food journalism, chefs,cookbooks and users, Epicurious offers awealth of original content, videos and tipsfocused on all aspects of cooking andentertaining. Epicurious is published byCondé Nast, a division of AdvancePublications, which operates in 25 countries.

General News

GENERAL NEWSwww.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 5

General News

Anolon, a global brand of gourmet qualitycookware and kitchen products,participated in its third year partnershipwith The New York Botanical Garden tohelp communicate the importance ofgarden-fresh ingredients in healthy homecooking. The Edible Garden CookingSeries provided families and children with

a series of cooking demonstrations in theFamily Garden Kitchen, fully equippedwith Anolon gourmet cookware, bakeware,cutlery, tools and gadgets.

“We are delighted to be the presentingsponsor of the Edible Garden CookingSeries, which teaches thousands of

Anolon Contributes toGarden’s Cooking Program

families about the benefits of growingand cooking fresh seasonal produce,” saidSuzanne Murphy, Vice President ofMeyer Corp. “Our partnership withThe New York Botanical Garden perfectlyaligns with our brand’s educationalcampaign, ‘Creating a Delicious Futurewith Anolon’.”

The Edible Garden Cooking Series kickedoff this summer and featured a fall harvestweekend celebration Sept. 24-25. ChefMario Batali and other chefs from his

restaurants hosted seasonal cookingdemonstrations staged in the FamilyGarden Kitchen. Anolon representativeswere present to showcase its newestkitchenware collections, demonstrate andsample recipes prepared by its chefs,distribute educational information forchildren and parents on energizingbreakfast ideas and conduct drawings for achance to win an Anolon Nouvelle copperskillet. Anolon reps also appeared at TheNew York Botanical Garden Oct. 8 formore harvest cooking demonstrations.

Gourmet food tastings, productdemonstrations and gift basket raffleswere among the events at the grand openingin early October of Marcel’s CulinaryExperience, a gourmet retailer and cookingschool in downtown Glen Ellyn, Ill.

“We’re thrilled to be a part of this vibrantarea, and are proud to have created a uniqueplace for anyone who loves food to shop,learn, watch, meet new people or socializewith old friends,” said Jill Foucré, a GlenEllyn resident and Marcel’s owner.

The internationally flavored “cook’s haven”combines Foucré’s family heritage (Marcelwas her grandfather, a classically trainedFrench chef and restaurateur), her love ofcooking and entertaining and herentrepreneurial spirit.

The heart of Marcel’s is its modern 400-square-foot kitchen, equipped for a varietyof culinary experiences.The space will be thesetting for an extensive, ongoing schedule ofculinary courses (both hands-on anddemonstration) led by Marcel’s ExecutiveChef, Kelly Sears, and featuring some of theChicago area’s chef instructors. The fallschedule includes 24 classes, plus special free“walk-up” demonstrations.

Marcel’s can also be reserved for privateevents of up to 16 people. “People alreadyhave contacted us about hosting a specialevent for their group, their customers orjust friends. Taking a cooking classtogether is appealing to so many people,”said Foucré.

The retail experience at Marcel’s, led byRetail Manager Dana Williams,complements the epicurean experience withculinary products such as All Clad, LeCreuset, Emile Henry, Mauviel, Wüsthof,Shun, Rosle, Viking and Jura Capresso,with additional unique offerings fromSimon Pearce, Juliska, Jan Barboglio,Terrafirma Ceramics, Shine Handmadeand many others.

Retailer, CookingSchool OpensDoors in Illinois

BY ROCELLE ARAGON

A growing number of kitchenware andhouseware sellers are signing up for Buyers’Best Friend (www.bbfdirect.com), a SanFrancisco-based site that recently becamethe world’s largest wholesale catalog forspecialty products.

Selling only to accredited wholesalebuyers, at press time, the site carried morethan 102,000 SKUs from almost 1,500sellers. The majority is specialty food, butkitchenware, cookware and othercategories are also represented.

“We started out in specialty food, but arequickly adding a significant amount ofkitchenware and houseware products,specifically growing at least 5 percent a week.Kitchenware is a natural fit for BBF, andwe’re excited to grow this important portionof our catalog.We currently have 129 brandsand 15,014 products (SKUs) in houseware,and 28 brands—1,506 products (SKUs) inkitchenware,” said Conor Lee, the site’sDirector of Marketing and Strategy.

Kitchenware sellers on the site include SwissDiamond, Bambu, Grind peppermills andEngstrom International, distributors of theTRF reusable baking sheets.

Based in San Francisco, www.bbfdirect.comis free for sellers to join and list theirproducts. Revenue is generated fromupgrade options, including a fast-growingpaid program that includes hand-brokeringservices and introductions to key accountsas well as ads. More than 2,000 registered,prequalified buyers use the site, includingstores such as Zingerman’s and SanFrancisco’s Rainbow Grocery. Lee said thesite is adding registered non-grocery buyersat the rate of dozens a day.

The site features many endorsements fromboth sellers and buyers, mostly on how thesite saves time and builds sales. Buyers canpurchase frommultiple producers or brokersat once, without having to open newaccounts for each; sellers are immediatelyconnected to buyers all over the country.In October, the site launched a Holiday

Fast-Growing Wholesale-Only SiteWelcomes Kitchenware Sellers

Buying Guide mini-site, specifically forseasonal products and orders. A mini-siteduring the Summer Fancy Food Showdrew hundreds of visitors and orderinquiries, and a second is planned for theupcoming winter food show.

The insight on the gourmet retail industryand its needs comes via Joyce Guan, BBFCo-Founder and Vice President of Sales.An independent specialty food broker whoalso maintains her business separate fromBBF, Guan noticed how much of herworkday was consumed by travel andrepetitive paperwork—instead of strategy,building relationships or actual sales. “It wasall very fragmented, and I knew there hadto be a better way,” she said. Guan spoke toher partner, Adam Sah, who wrote a softwareprogram to simplify her work.Other brokersbegan requesting their own versions, andBBF was born.

An important factor in BBF’s growth ishow easy it is for producers to set up shop.“If you can email us a PDF of your catalogand an Excel file of prices, you can startselling,” said Sah, the site’s Co-Founderand CEO. A former senior softwareengineer at Google, Sah is familiar withprocessing masses of real-time data and

the security required for e-commerce.

The site is also unusually transparent.Buyers can search for vendors by productcategory, price level, sales volume, sampleavailability and as new or established sellers.New orders, buyers, sellers—with amountsconcealed for confidentiality––hot productsand hot producers are regularly updatedand displayed onscreen, creating anaddictive snapshot of what is actuallyselling in the wholesale specialty market.

Though still mainly serving the U.S. market,the site has also drawn international interest.

“Frankly, the excitement from internationalbuyers and sellers was a surprise to us, andwe’re still figuring it all out,” said Sah.“Meanwhile, the catalog is maintaining anice balance of mostly domestic brandsand some aspiring international brands,and since we break out minimum ordersizes and available distributors, it’s prettyeasy for domestic buyers to navigate.”

To help serve international buyers, BBF haspartnered with experienced domestic sellers,exporters and a few overseas distributors,and has facilitated introductions for buyersin Canada, Japan, Australia and Mexico.

GENERAL NEWS www.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW6

General News

O N T H E C O V E R

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FISSLER USA/ROLAND PRODUCTS INC.Goodbye DetergentOriginal Spagehetti Scrub[tel] 800.321.2226goodbyedetergent.com

WILSHIRE INDUSTRIES LLCHUE Bamboo RainbowWood Carving Board[tel] 949.492.9921Www.islandbamboo.com

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PRESIDENT Lee M. Oser

In Arizona, where we publish Kitchenware News & Housewares Review, there’s a snap of fallin the air, and that has set us to thinking ahead to the International Home + Housewares Show,even as we also reflect on the likely effects of the global economic situation as well as what looksto be a rough-and-tumble Presidential campaign. Both of those circumstances are increasing theuncertainty and anxiety in the marketplace.

Given that, there’s one thing we can say for sure as we anticipate March in Chicago and we allput our 2012 budgets together, and that’s that this is not the time to shortchange your marketingfor the show. The uncertainties of our economic environment will tempt you to regard yourmarketing as a luxury you can live without if you have to, but the reverse is the case: Howevermuch the economy might shrink the marketplace for all of us, you should consider the wisdomof investing to ensure that your share of that pie still makes a meal that will sustain you.

Here at Kitchenware News & Housewares Review, we haven’t yet begun the advertising salescampaign for our show daily that will be distributed at the housewares show. However, if you’regoing to be exhibiting, you can count on hearing from us. On the advice of some of our friendsin the industry, our sales campaign this year will take a slightly softer approach, but please don’ttake that to mean that we’re any less sincere when we urge you to market your exhibit effectivelyor when we suggest that our show daily is your most cost-effective option.

If you’ll be shopping the show floor rather than exhibiting, may we also respectfully suggest thatyou pick up your copies of the Kitchenware News & Housewares Review Show Daily andconsult the pages as you plan your tour of the show floor. Our show daily is your guide to everythingthat’s most exciting at the show, and it’ll help prevent you from overlooking the products andideas you need to excite your customers over the next tumultuous year.

In short, sit down, buckle up and hold on–it’s going to be a ride. Our goal here at KitchenwareNews & Housewares Review, as always, is to provide you with publications that will help youemerge safely when the roller coaster stops its swooping and bouncing. See you at the show!

Lee M. Oser, Publisher

publisherfrom the

from theeditor

The home stretch: That’s probably what many of you are thinking about as the calendar switchesto November and moves on toward the final month of the year. Not only is the year nearing itsend, but the all-important holiday shopping season is coming into full swing, promising busydays and nights until those last-minute shoppers exit on Dec. 24.

For many retailers, I would guess November and December are just a blur of shelves to stock,bags to fill, gift baskets to create, and sales to ring on the register. But despite the hectic natureof the season, it is also a critical time of year when businesses make it or break it.

I know I will be doing my part to stimulate the economy during these final months of the year,not only buying gifts for others, but outfitting my own kitchen for all the holiday cooking andbaking that takes place.

Why is it we can manage to survive the majority of the year without certain kitchen tools, butcome November and December and that extra set of measuring cups and spoons isn’t a luxuryanymore, but a necessity. And where did all the potholders go? And maybe I could use a newapron—one without a big grease stain on the front.

As soon as the weather turned just the slightest bit chilly, I was back in the kitchen, making abig pot of chili and baking an apple crisp with apples I bought from visits to three Maine orchards.And in doing so, I was also surveying my kitchen for all the little things—and some big ones,too—that I’ll need to get ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Consumers may be more wary about spending these days, but fortunately, kitchenware and therelated categories provide practical, yet fun presents that can be used many times over. If someonewants some bang for their holiday buck, shopping at the local kitchenware or home-related giftshop is a great way to do it.

Have a happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Joanne Friedrick, Editorjoanne_f@oser.com

IN THIS ISSUEwww.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 7

november 2011contents3 GENERAL NEWS

8 PRODUCT REVIEW

9 ONE ON ONE

10 RETAILER PROFILE

11 PERSONAL CAREPRODUCTS

15 MARKETWATCHCUTLERY

17 SPECIAL FEATURECUTTING BOARDS

19 BUYERS GUIDEKITCHEN CLEANINGPRODUCTS

21 GIFTWARE

23 UPCOMING EVENTS

23 AD INDEX

BY A.J. FLICK

According to PlaceTile’s website, thethriving specialty business began ashumble yet coveted erasable ceramic placecards at the 1995 wedding of Owner andDesigner Kristin Bowen. Guests startedsnatching them up as mementos.

Sixteen years later and PlaceTile’s catalogincludes not only a variety of erasableceramic place card designs, but menu andmenu boards, cheese tiles, scroll plates,tiles to hang over bottle necks, cheeseplate/trivets and bottle stoppers.

The bottle stoppers come in four designs:vine, gold or platinum ringed and fleur-de-lis. They can be used for everythingfrom dating and labeling that bottle ofwine that you opened and plan to finishanother day to identifying oil and vinegarbottles used in the kitchen to conveyingmessages on gifts.

In my household, there is usually a bottle

in the fridge for unsweetened tea (becauseI like to add my own sweetener after it’spoured) and another for sweetened tea (forsomeone who wants to be sure every sugarydrop is waiting to be poured). Neither oneof us likes to pick up the wrong decanter.

The PlaceTile bottle stoppers are greatfor us to keep our teas apart. Plus, theymake the tea containers look more stylishthan the pop-tops they’ve replaced.

The ceramic tops are easy to write on andbecause they’re erasable, the bottle stoppers willbe appreciated by those of us whose calligraphysometimes takes several attempts before itlooks stylish (not to mention readable).

PlaceTile advises that because the bottlestoppers have real cork bases, be careful incorking and uncorking bottles to ensurethey don’t break. The company doesn’treplace bottle stoppers with broken corks.

The bottle stoppers don’t come with a dry

PlaceTile ErasableCeramic Bottle Stoppers

erase marker, although many of PlaceTile’sgift-boxed products do include one. Amarker can be purchased separately for $2,but any dry erase marker will work. Toremove the writing, I just used my fingers.If you are doing a lot of them, a cloth oreraser of some kind would be a better idea.

At $13 for a set of three, the bottlestoppers make an affordable yetmemorable gift. PlaceTile products aresold throughout North America at variousretailers, online at www.placetile.com or bycalling 678.467.4776.

Product ReviewPRODUCT REVIEW www.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW8

FRANMARA WINE &CHEESE PAIRING WHEEL“Accurate and right-on combination”—Oxbow Cheese Merchant, Napa, Calif.Wine and cheese are a classic combi-nation. Both are products of fermen-tation, which draws them together. Theaffinity of pairing them together can beexquisite.Cheese and wine will transformany party into a fun-filled celebration.Features 40 popular cheeses with winematches that are divided into white,redand sparkling wines suggestions. Eachwheel is two-sided with large printing foreasy reading.Each wheel is packed in asemi-transparent vinyl envelope with UPC.The wheel is 8" in diameter and packed36 to a four-color countertop display.Suggested Retail Price: $2.99

Franmara[tel] 831.422.4000www.franmara.com

ONE ON ONEwww.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 9

Although a relatively young company,Beehive Kitchenware is constantlyevolving, beginning as metalsmiths andexpanding into new areas such as ceramicsand wood. The husband-and-wife teamof Jim Dowd and Sandra Bonazoli producetheir designs from a studio in Fall River,Mass. Recently, Kitchenware News caughtup with Sandra Bonazoli to talk about thecompany and its current and future plans.

Q: What is the story behind how BeehiveKitchenware came about?

A: We started about 11 or 12 years ago.My background is in jewelry and sculptureand my husband’s is the same. I alwaysliked vintage kitchenware because it wasas beautiful as it was functional. Havingkitchenware have a decorative elementseemed important 70 years ago, and wewanted to do that as well.

Q: What were the first pieces in theline like?

A: We did about five pieces, including acopper colander and copper measuring cups.One of the original pieces was the heart-shaped measuring spoons, which we still do,and a coffee measuring cup, which we stilldo as well. They all had a folk art influence.

Q: So how has the line evolved since then?

A: We stopped doing the copper sheetmetalwork. It did sell, but we just, from acreative standpoint, wanted to go in adifferent direction. We did cast pewter,and got into some tabletop serving pieces,then desk and dresser pieces. We wantedto create objects that people could give asgifts and had an heirloom quality, but thatwere rooted in function. From there webranched into stoneware and wood.We sitat jeweler’s benches and sculpt and cast inmetal, but we realized we could do this inother materials. So we could take our skillsand our sensibilities and make a story orcollection in ceramic as well as metal.

Q: Do you have a typical workday and, ifso, what is it like?

A: Our typical workday is dependent onthe show cycle. We spend a lot of timeprior to the shows developing newproducts. We may be talking about ideas,or drawing, or looking online forreferences. From there, it ’s more intoproduct development. We fabricate theoriginals by hand. If you’re introducing 10new things, it can take several months.And while this is going on, we still needto deal with inventory, bookkeeping andsales. So our time is divided between theworkbench and the desk.

Q: Where do you work?

A: We have a 3,000-square-foot space foroffices, shipping, worktables and assembly.A large prototype area takes up about one-quarter of the space and has a lathe, ahydraulic press and a band saw.

Q: How do you and Jim work together?

A: Everything is collaborative, but it ’snot 50/50 all the time. I may have anidea, but Jim is the one to make themodel. Or he may suggest an idea and Isketch it. We also have friends from ourbackground, so we can call on them togive us input. Like when we developed thecheese knives, we have friends who aresilverware designers.

Q: Who are your retailers?

A: Our target retailer is an independentretailer with a specialty shop. Our bestretailers own their own stores and have aclose relationship with their clientele andare excited about what they are selling.

Q: Do you ever get into the stores topromote your products?

A: Once in a great while, we do atrunk show or a meet-and-greet withthem—sort of a meet-the-artistevent.

Q: Do you do a lot of shows?

A: We do about a half-dozenshows a year, like AmericasMartand the New York InternationalGift Fair. And we feel it ’simportant to have something newfor every show.

Q: What do you do when you’re notworking?

A: Jim is a very avid bicyclist, so he doesthat a lot on weekends. Where we live, it’sreally nice to go for walks or a ride. AndI’m always making stuff like jewelry, printmaking and knitting.

Q: What are your goals for Beehive?

A: Jim and I really want to make objectswith integrity. We want what we make tolast, so we put everything into whatwe make: Quality in design and qualityin execution.

One on OneSandra BonazoliBEEHIVE KITCHENWARE

RETAILER PROFILE www.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW10

BY JOANNE FRIEDRICK

It ’s the changing of the guard at TheCook’s Nook, a specialty kitchenware, giftand gourmet shop in McPherson, Kan.Longtime Owner Priscilla Smith has beenstepping back from day-to-day operations,leaving that job to her daughter and storeManager Jonna Corrigan.

In business since 1988, Smith said thestore has gone through several transitions,beginning in an 800-square-foot space,then expanding to 1,500 square feet bytaking down a wall and eventually movingdown the block to its current 3,500-square-foot home. In this spot, there’sbeen the addition of kitchen, wherecooking classes take place.

Reflecting on the past 20-plus years, Smithsaid it was the addition of the bridalregistry that helped build The Cook’sNook and keep it going duringtraditionally slow months.

“We had as many as 50 active brides at onetime,” she recalled, noting that before in-

store computers, the registry was kept ina spiral-bound notebook.

Even today, she said, they still write downa bride-to-be’s registry, but then enter itinto the computer so the information canbe easily updated and tracked. As from thebeginning, those who purchase from theregistry get free gift wrap and delivery, shesaid. “I think that ’s why people comehere,” she said. “For the customer service.”

Of course, said Smith, what goes on theregistry has changed. “When we firststarted, we sold a lot of china. Now it’srare, because people are more casual.” TheCook’s Nook still offers tabletop, but it’sFiesta, not fine china.

Also, with a nod toward brides, Smithsaid her store carries some small appliancesfrom Cuisinart and Bosch, throughappliances aren’t big business for them.In cookware and cutlery, they offer brandssuch as Viking, All Clad and Wüsthof.

Gadgets have been and continue to be abig part of the business, said Smith,with three walls devoted to them. Shesaid with the current economy, some

The Cook’s Nook

people are looking to make smaller giftpurchases or just add a gadget or two totheir own kitchen as an update.

“If it ’s something they want, we willfind it for them,” she said of her gadgetphilosophy. All members of the staff takepart in the buying process, said Smith.Several of them travel to the InternationalHome + Housewares Show and the giftmarket in Dallas to do some buying.

The front of the store and the windows arefilled with displays, said Smith, which arechanged frequently to keep customersengaged. “We did a whole display withdoughnuts and breakfast items,” she said.Sales for those products, which had beenslow before, took off.

The store added its kitchen and the classesin 1996, said Smith. There are no classesduring the summer or during the peakholiday months of December and January.In putting together the program, Smithsaid they ask customers what they want tolearn about and take input from potentialteachers as well. The classes are good fordrawing people to the small town, shesaid, and have brought in customers fromWichita and Salina, which are 50 and 30miles away, respectively.

Most of the classes are demonstrationstyle and can accommodate up to 25people using an overhead mirror to showwhat is going on. The hands-on classesare geared mainly to children, she said,and those are limited to about adozen participants.

Like many smaller towns that are eagerto keep shoppers buying locally, Smithsaid McPherson has started a FirstThursdays event designed to create localtraffic in the downtown. The eventscombine entertainment with specials atthe participating retailers, she said.

The Cook’s Nook also does an open housethe first weekend in November to kickoff the holidays. The store brings in

seasonal items and does gift baskets, shesaid, as well as extending its hours.

Because McPherson is a small town, thereisn’t much competition locally, said Smith.Instead, she sees the Internet asThe Cook’s Nook’s chief competitor. “Butthat ’s where the gadgets come in,”she said. “If they find something specialor come to us looking for it, then theywill remember us.”

The Cook’s Nook also does a lot of demos,said Smith, either with formalpresentations from vendors such asWüsthof or just featuring the latest gadgeton the counter for customers to try.

Getting the word out about what’s new haschanged a bit in Smith’s 20-plus years ofbusiness, she said. “We did a newsletter foryears and I originally got the addresses offof the checks people would write,” sherecalled. At its peak, the newsletter wasmailed to 12,000 people. “But we had todrop the newsletter because of the cost ofpostage,” she explained.

Now the store relies on its website, anemail newsletter and Facebook as well assome TV advertising. Some of the Wichitastations offer a program that gives localbusinesses the chance to talk about what’snew, she said, in conjunction with otherarea stores.

Corrigan, who worked at the store as ateenager and has been back at the businessfor the past 15 years, said she’s not planningto make a lot of changes as she takes overthe reins at The Cook’s Nook. “What we’vedone has worked, but you can’t get stucknot changing anything,” she said.

One of the areas of interest is keeping upwith social media and the need to putinformation out there for customers on aregular basis.

Inside The Cook’s Nook, she said thefocus is on keeping the store fresh andmaking it a good experience for visitors.

Retailer Profile

personalcare

VOLUME 17, NUMBER 11 NOVEMBER 2011

products

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

S E R V I N G K I T C H E N W A R E , H O U S E W A R E S A N D T A B L E T O P M A R K E T S

PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS www.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW12

Personal Care Products

WORKER B SKIN CAREWorker B skin care products containno fillers,water or alcohol and use beeproducts (beeswax, honey andpropolis) from several Minnesota andwestern Wisconsin beekeepers. AllWorker B products can be used fromface to feet, lips to hands.They are alsogood for pets' paws and are food safe.Worker B was developed in part for themost sensitive of skin,suitable for peoplewith a large range of allergies.Productsavailable include balm in threedifferent formats (tube, tin andtreatment stick), all with the sameformula featuring bee propolis andorganic avocado oil; cream, which isa rich,all-purpose cream,designed forultra-sensitive skin; putty,which is goodfor skin cracks,cuticles, feet,gardeninghands and bug bites; lotion bar for fullbody conditioning; unscented orscented lotion; and propolizer, a 50percent propolis tincture, which has along history as a homeopathic remedy.Suggested Retail Price: $3.50-22

Worker B[tel] 612.804.4781www.worker-b.com

HUMIO HUMIDIFIER & NIGHT LAMPWITH AROMA OIL COMPARTMENTThe Humio Humidifier and Night Lamp,with aroma oil compartment, iselegantly designed to offer a soothingand relaxing ambience of shadedcolors that softly illuminates and addsstyle to any room’s décor.Dispel stressand physical strains through subtlehints of lavender or eucalyptusessential oils. With no filters needed,the Humio helps ease the symptomsof dry skin, throat, nose and lips byimproving the 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: $89.95

TribestLife[tel] 714.879.7150www.tribestlife.com

EVRIHOLDER BAMBOO NATURALSEvriholder recently launched BambooNaturals, a new product line of eco-friendly health and beauty accessoriesmade from super soft bamboo fabrics.Featured items include a dual-sidedwashcloth, a naturally soothingheadband, a super soft solange poofand ultra-moisturizing socks—all madeof earth-friendly bamboo fabrics. Allitems are available in bamboo greenand natural taupe. Items are great forholiday gifting, everyday pamperingand creating the ultimate spaexperience right at home.Suggested Retail Price: Start at $5.99

Evriholder Products[tel] 800.975.0335www.evriholder.com

HELIX-D FACE, NECKAND EYE SERUMThepoint of difference for Helix-D is foundin its new technology—the Helix DeliverySystem. HDS features a dual-liposome,low-polar,friction-freedelivery system thatsuspends the active ingredients in aprotectivematrix,preserving their potencyuntil activated at the skin surface.Whenthe matrix and base are blended at theskin surface during application, theformulation is activatedand the deliverysystem transports the actives past theprotective outer layer of the skin totargeted skin layers beneath. As thedelivery system penetrates the skin'ssurface, first the exterior, then the interiorliposomesdissolve,providinga sustained,time-releaseofactives to the surroundingcells.These state-of-the-art actives featurethe most advanced power-peptides,matrikines, anti-oxidants and nano-hydrators to rejuvenate, rehydrate andrestore skin to its youthful appearance.Suggested Retail Price: $99 (Face andNeck Serum), $79 (Eye Serum)

Helix Beauty LLC[email] retailer@helix-D.comwww.helix-d.com

DR. MIRACLE'S HAIR REPAIRDr.Miracle's, a leader in the ethnic haircare industry, has evolved beyond hairrepair positioning with a comprehen-sive re-launch. The most noticeabledevelopment will be the brand'sevolution of appearance at store level.The packaging redesign reflects Dr.Miracle's' efforts to increase consumershopability. Recent studies show thatconsumers have trouble determiningthe optimum products to address theirtreatment and maintenance needs.The fan-favorite tingling sensationremains. Within the ethnic hair carecategory, natural ingredients havebecome increasingly important to theconsumer. Dr. Miracle's products havebeen reformulated to include vitaminsand natural ingredients including sheabutter, aloe, coconut, jojoba and oliveoils, which are known to condition,nourish and strengthen hair. Newproduct developments include: EdgeHolding Gel, Acai Thermal ProtectionStyler, Daily Moisturizing Lotion,Conditioning Shampoo, Leave InConditioner, Deep Conditioner, OilSheen Spray andNeutralizing Shampoo.Suggested Retail Prices: $3.99-5.99

Dr.Miracle's[email] admin@drmiracles.comwww.drmiracles.com

ADE DIGITAL LUGGAGE SCALESmart and precise, the ADE DigitalLuggage Scale lets anyone weighluggage before heading to the airport,saving on extra luggage charges forbags exceeding airline weightrestrictions.Perfect for either frequent oroccasional fliers, this compact scaleweighs just 7 ounces and takes up littleroom in luggage. One of the highestcapacity luggage scales on themarket,the ADE Digital Luggage Scale canmeasure up to 121 pounds in 4-ounceincrements.Easy to use,simply latch thestrap onto the luggage handle, brieflylift the suitcase, then set it down. Thebag’s exact weight is shown on thescale’s LCD display. The unit can easilyswitch between kilograms and pounds.The body is made of high-quality ABSplastic. The scale is equipped with adurable strap and comes with a handlebig enough for lifting with both hands.The ADE Digital Luggage Scale,marketed by Frieling USA, runs on oneCR 2032 lithium battery (included) andfeatures an automatic shut-off andbattery level indicator. The unit comeswith a three-year warranty.Suggested Retail Price: $19.95

Frieling USA[tel] 800.827.2582www.frieling.com

PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTSwww.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 13

COOL GEAR GO GEARCool Gear International Inc., aleading global designer andmanufacturer of innovative hydrationand food storage products,announced the national release of itsfirst travel product, Go Gear, airlinecarry-on approved liquid travelcontainers. Go Gear travel tubes aremade of squeezable BPA-free siliconematerial and feature easy-to-fill,wide-mouth bottle openings for simpleliquid transferring and dispensing.They come in 1.25-ounce, 2-ounceand 3-ounce sizes, meeting airline-approved guidelines for the size ofcarry-on liquids.Go Gear is availablein turquoise,green and magenta andcomes with write-on sticker labels foridentifying contents. It is alsodishwasher safe and can be boiledfor easy cleaning.Suggested Retail Price: $2.97 forindividual tubes; $8-10 for assortedthree-packs

Cool Gear International Inc.[tel] 800.386.3374www.coolgearinc.com

DYNAMIC WATERS AQUALIBRIUMBIO-BOOST SYSTEMSH2O Plus developed the newAqualibrium Bio-Boost treatmentduos with internationally sourcedwaters plus marine ingredientsto optimize skin tone and texture.The complete collection is adermatologist-tested, marine-baseddaily skin therapy regimen thathydrates with glacier waters fromthe Italian and Swiss Alps, minimizesfine lines and wrinkles with volcanicwaters from France's Auvergneregion and brightens skin tonewith Eastern European watersenriched by aquatic watermint.Each system contains a powerfulserum which is activated by itscorresponding mist. The AqualibriumBio-Boost Systems include: HydratingBio-Boost System, Line MinimizingBio-Boost System and IlluminatingBio-Boost System.Suggested Retail Price: $55

Dynamic Waters[tel] 800.242.2284www.h2oplus.com

A new study confirms for the first time thatusing color cosmetics does, in fact,significantly alter how women are perceivedby others, at first glance and over time.Results of the study show that makeupapplication specifically affects judgments ofattractiveness and character when viewedrapidly or for unlimited amounts of time.

Researchers conducted two studies in which100 photos of 25 women’s faces were judgedwithout makeup and with three differentapplied makeup looks that included varyinglevels of luminous contrast (different levelsof light to dark makeup shades). The lookswere informally classified as “natural,”“professional” and “glamorous.”

When viewed for 250 milliseconds, all threemakeup looks increased ratings ofattractiveness, competence, likability andtrust compared to the ratings of the samefaces without makeup.

Further, participants in the second study whohad unlimited time to inspect the faces gaveboth the natural and professional makeuplooks increased ratings of attractiveness,competence, likability and trust.

The glamorous look, which had the highest

luminous contrast, was judged to be equallylikeable, less trustworthy and significantlymore attractive and competent than the faceswithout makeup. The reverse connotationsassociated with this look demonstrate thatmakeup impacts both automatic, instinctualresponses and conscious, deliberativejudgments, causing people to makeimpressions based on the visual alterationscaused by cosmetics and their conscious ideasabout makeup users and looks.

“Researchers have studied first impressionsof innate facial characteristics, such asfacial symmetry, but until now, no researchhas rigorously examined the role thatapplied beauty or features of the extendedhuman phenotype, such as makeup andhair color, play in perception of beauty,personality and character at first glanceand longer inspection,” said Nancy Etcoff,Assistant Clinical Professor at HarvardUniversity and Associate Researcher atMassachusetts General HospitalDepartment of Psychiatry.

“For the first time, we have found thatapplying makeup has an effect beyondincreasing attractiveness—it impacts firstimpressions and overall judgments ofperceived likeability, trustworthiness, and

Study Reveals CosmeticsAlter Instinctual Perception

competence. In today’s world of self-portraits appearing on networking anddating websites, ballots, resumes andapplications, the results of the study havebroad implications.”

The data’s implications also suggestmakeup can give women the power todetermine which aspects of theirpersonality they want communicated toothers, said Sarah Vickery, PrincipalScientist, Research & Development, ColorCosmetics, P&G Beauty & Grooming.

“This study examined the impact of relevantmakeup looks that women in the westernworld commonly wear, showing that makeupis a real-life tool in their arsenal to effectivelycontrol the way they want to be—and are—perceived,” said Vickery.

“Makers of color cosmetics and otherbeauty products can take these findingsinto consideration to further developscience-based solutions that empowerwomen to display different aspects of theirpersonalities and to really take charge ofthe way others see them.”

The study was conducted in two parts with100 high-resolution color images of 25women, ages 20 to 50, who self-identified asHispanic, Caucasian or African-American.The images included a frontal headshot witha neutral facial expression and were croppedto remove clothing and hair styles.

A makeup artist applied three differentmakeup looks that provided increasingluminance contrast between the skin andfacial features (informally labeled as“natural,” “professional” and “glamorous”).A professional photographer shot thewomen without makeup and with all threelooks under uniform conditions, and thephotos were adjusted digitally.

The first study included 149 adults (61 men,88 women) of different ages and ethnicitieswho were shown the faces for 250milliseconds.The second study included 119adults (30 males, 89 females) of differentages and ethnicities who were givenunlimited time to inspect each face. Allparticipants saw the faces in a randomizedsequence and rated them based onattractiveness, likeability, trustworthiness andcompetence.

“Collaborating with global academic andindustry experts has allowed P&GBeauty &Grooming scientists to transform cutting-edge color science into solutions for skin,cosmetic and hair color products,” saidShekharMitra, Senior Vice President, P&GGlobal Beauty and Grooming, Research andDevelopment. “This fundamental researchhelps us better understand the motivationsand desired beauty outcomes of ourconsumers and how to translate thatknowledge into innovations that have aproven impact on perception.”

14

VERILUX CLEANWAVE VACUUMThe Verilux CleanWave SanitizingFurniture & Bed Vac is designed toeliminate up to 99.9 percent of pestssuch as bed bug, dust mite and fleaeggs as well as viruses, bacteria andallergens such as mold on non-poroussurfaces. It also deodorizes upholstery,bedding, fabrics and carpets. TheCleanWave cleans and sanitizeswithout chemicals or irritants,using 400watts of power to create consistentsuction. The unit features an easy,bagless design and a two-stagemicroallergy filtration system to preventrecirculating pollutants.Suggested Retail Price: $129.95

Verilux[tel] 800.786.6850www.verilux.com

HOWARD PRODUCTS’ LINE OFNATURAL KITCHEN CLEANERSThe Granite & Marble Cleaner is a non-acidic,non-abrasive vegetable-derivedformula that is ideal for daily cleanup ofsealedgranite,marble andother naturalstone countertops and surfaces. TheKitchen Cabinet Cleaner combinesBrazilian carnauba wax and othervegetable-derived ingredients to easilycleanwater-soluble foodgrimeaswell asoil-based kitchen grease. The StainlessSteel Cleaner & Polish is made ofInnovative natural vegetable-derivedingredients that easily clean food grime,oily fingerprints andeven kitchengrease.Suggested Retail Price: $8.99-10.99

Howard Products[tel] 800.266.9545www.howardproducts.com

KINERASE RESTRUCTUREFIRMING EYE CREAMA departure from the typical firmingproducts, Kinerase Restructure FirmingEye Cream transforms skin by targetingelastin protein coils to lift and tone thecontours of the eye area.This Kineraseeye firming regimen combines theplant extract LOXL Stimulator, potent,clinically proven antioxidants and 0.15percent kinetin to improve skin elasticityand tone, tighten and restructure for amore lifted look. It also reduces theappearance of expression wrinkles anddeeply moisturizes for firmer, smoother,more youthful-looking skin.Suggested Retal Price: $59

Kinerase[tel] 800.321.4576www.kinerase.com

ZON PERSONAL AIR PURIFIERLightweight and compact, the ZONPersonal Air Purifier from Blueairprovides consumers with their ownpersonal clean air zone to enhanceindividual indoor air quality. Standingless than 8" tall, the ZON Personal AirPurifier has a compact design andweighs just 1.5 pounds, with the filterincluded.With this advanced design,the filter is cradled in a dockingstation along with Blueair’s patentedHEPASilent™ filter to deliver cleanair at a rate of 30 feet in 3 minutes.A variable speed control adjuststhe airflow.Suggested Retail Price: $99.95

Blueair Inc.[tel] 888.258.3247www.blueair.com

Helen of Troy Limited, a designer,developer and worldwide marketer ofbrand-name household and personal careproducts, has acquired a global license to“The Twilight Saga” from SummitEntertainment to market a specialcollection of styling appliances under theirPRO Beauty Tools® brand.

The exclusive Twilight Limited EditionCollection by PRO Beauty Tools launchedin October just before “The Twilight Saga:

Breaking Dawn—Part 1” hit theaterson Nov. 18th.

Gerald J. Rubin, Chairman, Chief ExecutiveOfficer and President, stated, “Helen ofTroyis delighted to be working with SummitEntertainment because both companies arededicated to the same target audience, youngwomen who demand cutting edge trendswith a great flair of style. There is a lot ofsynergy between our Pro BeautyTools brandand “The Twilight Saga” phenomenon.

Helen of Troy Secures Rights toMarket ‘Twilight’ Beauty Tools

Together, we have the opportunity to bringvalue-added products to a fan base that isthirsting for more brand extensions.”

Summit Entertainment, the film studiobehind “The Twilight Saga” film franchise,which has given PRO Beauty Toolsa license to develop, produce, and distribute“TheTwilight Saga” branded hair appliancesand beauty tools worldwide.

Robert Ballard, Vice President ofRetail Marketing for Helen of Troy,stated, “The new ‘Twilight’ line is takingPro Beauty Tools to new heights andcreating consumer excitement like we havenever seen before. The new Pro BeautyTools line, consisting of five styling

appliances and a collect of professionalbrushes, is designed to easily create favorite‘Twilight ’ character looks. Each castmember is known for his or her specializedhair style. We believe the new line willhelp capture the trendy looks that millionsof fans worldwide desire."

Helen of Troy Limited has a portfolio ofwell-recognized housewares and personalcare brands, including: OXO®, OXOGoodGrips®,OXO SoftWorks® and OXO Steel,Revlon®, Vidal Sassoon®, Dr. Scholl's®,Scholl®, Pro Beauty Tools®, Sure®, PertPlus®, Infusium23®, Brut®, Ogilvie®,Ammens®, Hot Tools® and Gold 'N Hot,Vicks®, Braun®, Honeywell®, Stinger®,Duracraft®, Protec® and SoftHeat®.

Newly published research reaffirms thatthe use of antibacterial wash products inthe home environment does not contributeto antibiotic or antibacterial resistance,confirming previous research thatshowcased similar findings.

The study, published in the peer-reviewed International Journal ofMicrobiology Research, compared theuse of over-the-counter antibacterialliquid hand and body cleansers andantibacterial bar soaps—containing thegerm-killing ingredients triclosanand triclocarban—against the use of non-antibacterial cleansers.

Lead author Dr. Eugene Cole, who hasspent more than 35 years in the field ofenvironmental health research, said the

study discounts claims that the use ofantibacterial wash products havecontributed to the selection and spreadof drug-resistant bacteria on human skin.

From a pool of more than 450 individuals,210 study participants were randomlyselected, 70 for each of three groups:Those who frequently used liquid bathor shower products containing triclosan;those who frequently used bar soapscontaining triclocarban; and thosewho did not use any antibacterialwash products and thus served as thecontrol group.

A standard method for swabbing bothforearms of all participants was used tocollect samples of Staphylococcus bacteria,which were then tested against several

Study: No Link Between RealWorldUse of Antibacterial Soapsand Antibacterial Resistance

different types of antibiotics that arecommonly used to treat Staph infections.

The experimental results showed therewas no increase in the antibiotic resistanceof the Staph strains isolated from eithergroup that had been using antibacterialwash products, when compared to thoseisolates obtained from the control group.Those bacteria also showed no increasedresistance to triclosan or triclocarban.

“There was no statistically significantdifference in antibiotic resistance ofStaphylococcus isolates obtained fromthe skin of regular antibacterial washproduct users in comparison with non-antibacterial product users,” said Cole,Professor of Environmental HealthSciences of Brigham Young University’sDepartment of Health Science. “Therewas also a definitive lack of antibiotic andantibacterial cross resistance amongthose bacteria.”

The research was supported by theAmerican Cleaning Institute and thePersonal Care Products Council.

“Hygiene product manufacturers andingredient suppliers continuously reviewand analyze research and fund newstudies to ensure product and ingredientefficacy and safety. This is part of ourindustry’s long-standing commitment toproduct stewardship,” said Dr. FrancisKruszewski, ACI Director of HumanHealth and Safety. “After decades ofuse, antibacterial wash products continueto play a beneficial role in everydayhygiene routines for millions of peoplearound the world.”

“Investigation of Antibiotic andAntibacterial Susceptibility and Resistancein Staphylococcus from the Skin of Usersand Non-Users of Antibacterial WashProducts in Home Environments” wasauthored by Cole with R.M. Addison,Duke University Medical Center, ClinicalMicrobiology/Infectious Diseases; P.D.Dulaney, Applied Environmental, Inc.;K.E. Leese, Applied Environmental Inc.;H.M. Madanat, San Diego StateUniversity, Graduate School of PublicHealth; and A.M. Guffey, AppliedEnvironmental Inc.

PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS www.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

MARKETWATCHwww.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 15

Marketwatchcutlery

OUTSET JACKSON4-PIECE STEAKHOUSE KNIVESA stunning distinction—uniquecontours and timeless beauty—come together to create thisaesthetically striking steakhouseknife set. These jumbo-sized knivesare constructed with the finestrosewood and forged stainlesssteel for matchless quality. The set offour knives is a staple in Outset’sJackson Collection, a line that isbeautiful, but far from dainty.Suggested Retail Price:$39.99 (set of four)

Fox Run Brands[tel] 800.372.0700www.foxrunbrands.com

CORE BAMBOO SLICING TOOLSSlice,dice,cut and chop favorite foodslike never before. This unique line ofslicing tools is made from 100 percentorganically grown bamboo. Sharp asmost conventional blades, but morestylish and unique in material anddesign, these slicers are perfect for alltypes of food preparation. Slice loavesof bread,prepare meats and fish,dicevegetables and fruits and slice cheesewith this collection of bamboo slicersand dicers. A great organic touch toany utensil collection, these bambooslicers have eye appeal and arefunctional, too. Start a trend by usingthese interesting bamboo slicers andfriends and family will envious.Suggested Retail Price: $9-18

Core Bamboo[tel] 646.845.6000www.corebamboo.com

The Santoku, a Japanese-style knife with ashorter and thinner blade than a traditionalchef ’s knife, became a household name whenRay began using it on her cooking shows, saidMyers. Companies that weren’t necessarily inthe cutlery business before entered with theirown versions of the Santoku, he said, anddeveloped additional pieces from there.

Wüsthof, which will celebrate its 200thanniversary in 2014, is a family-run businessnow in its seven generation, saidMyers.Thefocus continues to be on quality, he said,developing and selling the right products forthe time.The Santoku still remains popular,he said, but there is also a trend toward backto basics, with a focus on bread, paring andchef ’s knives.

While buying a block set is more of a savingsvs. buying each knife individually,Myers saidopen stock sales are growing. It could berelated to the economy, with shoppers waryof investing $300 to $400 at one time for ablock set, but it can also be related toconsumers buying just those pieces they need,or collectors seeking select pieces to fill outtheir line.

Color, which has exploded throughout thekitchenware industry, hasfound its way into the cutleryaisle as well. Myers saidWüsthof is selling bothkitchen shears and paringknives in a host of colors. Redis the hottest seller, he said,while yellow has lagged.

Color and fashion aredefinitely a part of what’sgoing on in the category, saidSteve White, Vice President-Sales andMarketing for Kuhn Rikon. “Our cutleryisn’t investment quality,” he explained, “butmore of a specialty item.We see it as fun anddifferent, and the category is very strong.Our niche is to offer a great variety of shapedblades.”

Kuhn Rikon infuses color throughout itsknife line, including its specialty blades forcutting different kinds of fruits and vegetables.The watermelon knife was the first in thatseries, saidWhite, but it has since been joinedby specialty knives to cut avocados,strawberries, melons, tomatoes and apples.The company’s success with its paring knivesled it to develop the specialty line, saidWhite.

While customers often choose colors tomatch their kitchens or correspond with theircurrent fashion tastes, White said there is apractical side to color, because color-codingthe knives can help deal with cross-contamination—for example, using a red

knife for meat, a green one for veggies andyellow for poultry.

And, addedWhite, “During certain economictimes, color just makes people feel good.”

Kuhn Rikon, which also creates productsfor baking and cooking, has seen growth inall categories, said White, but especially incutlery. “Cutlery has grown to be a significantpart of our business,” he said, in part becausethey are continuing to develop new products.

Innovation is going beyond color, with afocus on the types of metals used for blades,wood used for handles and the finishingdetails, said Kurt Zanner, Director of SalesandMarketing for Kai USA,which producesthe Shun cutlery line.

“We’re using more sophisticated and exoticraw materials,” explained Zanner, such aspowdered microcarbide steel that is harderand more stain- and corrosion-resistant thanother materials. This also allows for thecreation of a “more aggressive” edge, he said,which is sharper and last longer.

Even the handle design is evolving, saidZanner, who noted Shun offers straightershapes with some angles, making it moreuniversal in terms of who can hold it and howthey do so.

Zanner said while Shun promotes knife setsbecause there is more value forthe retailer and the consumer, thereality is that people are buyingindividual pieces.

Victorinox Swiss Army is alsoexpanding its cutlery lines throughthe use of color on its utility andparing knives. The company isgoing strong into retail with thelaunch of Swiss Classic andRosewood, which offers the same

commercial-grade steel as its professionalseries, said Rene Stutz, President, VictorinoxSwiss Army NA.

Every knife is designed with quality steel,superior edge retention and ergonomics inmind. While the company has long made aline of professional cutlery, its line for homechefs features more ergonomically designedhandles. “But a lot of home chefs wantcommercial-grade quality, so we left theblade the same,” said Stutz.

In an effort to round out the assortment, hesaid, Victorinox Swiss Army is launching anewly designed handle that will be part ofits top-of-the-line collection. Also in theworks is a limited-edition ceramic knife.

All of the companies noted that they workwith retailers through various means such asin-store demos, promotional pricing, producttraining for associates, brochures and signageor specialty packaging.

Cutlery(Cont. from Page 1)

MARKETWATCH KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW16

JEWELSTIK 123 KNIFE SHARPENERGot three? If you're not selling theJewelStik 123, you're missing out oncash. Customers are discovering theneed for three grit surfaces whilesharpening their knives. The JewelStik123 offers three grits—coarse,medium and fine—on one handle forconvenience sake. The need tosharpen a knife's edge when it's gonedull is the reason to use the coarseside. Users will make use of themedium and fine grits on a regularbasis. Everyday before beginningchopping the bok choy, carrots andonions for dinner, users will want toswipe the knife on the medium andfine side to give the knife a razor'sedge for all that chopping.More andmore customers are returning toAmerican-made products andJewelStik is one of the last remainingtrue to its heritage. JewelStik hasremained an American-madeproduct for more than 40 years.Today's consumers are smart andsavvy and they want products ofhigh quality that last the test of time.JewelStik comes with a lifetimeguarantee and is the finest diamond-coated quality on the market. Wehave been giving our customers onlythe best all the time.Suggested Retail Price: $49.95

Hewlett Manufacturing[tel] 814.683.4762www.jewelstik.com

WUSTHOF CLASSIC5-PIECE STUDIO BLOCK SETThe Wüsthof Classic 5-Piece StudioBlock Set has all the kitchen essentialsin a compact, space-saving block.Taking up only a few inches ofprecious counter space, this set isperfect for apartments, boats,vacation homes, RV campers, or foranyone who believes in thephilosophy that “less is more.” Thesmall footprint of the Studio Blockmakes this one-of-a-kind set ideal forany place users want to have theirknives on hand. Anyone who enjoyscooking and home entertaining canappreciate the utility of a secondprep station—perhaps by the bar oran outdoor grill. Wüsthof hasanswered this need with a high-quality set of Classic triple-rivetedfull-tang knives. The German-madeset includes a 3.5" Paring Knife, a 4.5"Utility Knife, a 6" Cook’s Knife, Come-Apart Kitchen Shears and a Four-SlotBlock. The included knives areprecision-forged from a single blankof high-carbon stainless steel usingWüsthof’s Precision Edge Technology(PEtec), giving each blade anextraordinarily sharp edge.Suggested Retail Price: $149.99

Wüsthof-Trident of America Inc.[tel] 800.289.9878www.wusthof.com

KAI MY FIRST KNIFEKai USA presents My First Knife forchildren. The knife,which is meant tobe used under the supervision of anadult, comes with a My First Knifeinstructional booklet featuringdiagrams, illustrations, how-to stepsand tips on how to teach childrenbasic knife skills. The knife is designedfor safety with an orange, roundedhandle that is shaped so kids willhave success whether they are left-or right-handed.The blade is serrated,which is safer for children and moreforgiving when cutting. The tip of theblade is smooth and rounded, as isthe heel of the blade. The handle isalso textured to provide a securegrip. The knife is debuting at Williams-Sonoma; Kai and Williams-Sonomaare giving 25 percent of theproceeds from the sale of the knivesto Share Our Strength.Suggested Retail Price: $40

Kai USA[tel] 800.325.2891www.shuncutlery.com

KUHN RIKON SMALL SANTOKU KNIFEKuhn Rikon has added green, black,purple and blue to its Small SantokuKnife selection, a popular knife forslicing, chopping and preppingmeals in the kitchen. The SantokuKnife features a thin, 5" super-sharpJapanese steel blade covered innonstick coating. The blade isdesigned with small holes, which, incombination with the nonstick, helpkeep food from clinging to the blade.Suggested Retail Price: $16

Kuhn Rikon[tel] 800.662.5882www.kuhnrikon.com

SPECIAL FEATUREwww.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 17

Special Featurecutting boards

top brands when it comes to woodencutting boards and is extremely popularamong well-known chefs including BobbyFlay, Martha Stewart and Rachael Ray.

Having celebrity chefs tout your waresand use them on the Food Network is agreat way to merchandise your products.“They come to us,” said Mandy Sheehan,Marketing Specialist at John Boos. “Youget a few people like that coming to you,and you know you’ve made it.”

John Boos boards are cut from wood onblocks in such a way that the woodgraindoesn’t dull knife blades, Sheehanexplained. In addition, the use of mapleprevents bacteria growth, thanks to anenzyme naturally infused in the wood.

Among the most popular John Boosboards is the R Series, Sheehan said. TheR Series comes in maple (rectangle orround), cherry and walnut; prices varyaccording to size.

“The boards are a standard inch and ahalf thick—that’s a good size for mostpeople,” Sheehan said. “A thicker boardraises the cutting surface too much formany people.”The R Series boards are approved bythe National Sanitation Foundation andflip over for additional use. “I never knewhow much I was missing one of theseboards until I started working here,”Sheehan said.

Also popular are the steak boards andJohn Boos’ signature butcher block boards.Another favorite is the 31-pound Aztecboard, which keeps meat stabilized andhas a channel that carries juices into astainless-steel drip pan.

Sheehan advised that those who usewooden cutting boards must oil them witha food-safe product (not vegetable oil,which becomes rancid) every few weeks.“They need a drink, just like a living,breathing piece of wood,” she said. JohnBoos carries Board Cream and MysteryOil for such purposes.

“With a little effort, your board will lasta long time,” Sheehan said.

Proteak cultivates the wood it uses forcutting boards on its renewable operationsfarm near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. What

makes Proteak’s cutting board great for theupcoming season is the deep well thatensures every drop of juice from theholiday roast—whether it ’s a Cornishgame hen, turkey or Turducken—makes itinto the gravy boat.

Companies who make cutting boards outof plastic and other materials make surethat their products are safe and as easy onknives as can be.

Linden Sweden’s Daloplast series, madeout of polythene, won’t dull knives andcomes in such whimsical shapes as pigs,hearts and apples.

Joseph Joseph also sets out to make itsplastic boards as eye-catching aspossible, without forgetting that theymust serve a purpose and be safe. “Inessence, a chopping board in its purestform needs to be a surface on whichyou can chop food, be soft enough so itdoesn’t blunt the knives while allowingyou to chop food, etc., and be hygenicand easy to clean,” said RichardJoseph, Managing Director ofJoseph Joseph.

Joseph Joseph boards aremade frompolypropylene, which isdishwasher safe. “Thatmeans you can really cleanthe pores thoroughly afteruse,” Joseph said.

The first board that the companylaunched, the Chop2Pot, not only cleansup well, but helps keep the kitchentidy, too.

“You pick it up and when you squeeze thehandle, it makes a chute so it guides thefood into the pot,” Joseph said. “Withflat-surface chopping blocks, you take yourknife to scrape the food into the pot andyou end up getting it all over thecountertop.”

The Chop2Pot’s “living hinges,” moldedinto the product, have been tested 10,000times.

“You can use it three times a day for fiveyears nonstop and it will still perform,”Joseph said.

Cutting Boards(Cont. from Page 1)

Mindful that most cooks havemultiple boards for differentuses and considering JosephJoseph’s philosophy ofattraction meets function, thecompany came out with theIndex set, four color-coded andtabbed boards housed in a sleekcounter case.

“If you’re chopping raw fish, you’renot using the same board every timeto chop vegetables or raw meat,” Josephsaid. “We also realized that the more youuse your chopping boards, they get scoredmore and more by the knives, which theyhave to do, to protect the knives. But asthey get older, they get more ugly. So youcan put them back in the case and stillhave the same aesthetic. They look greatwhile hiding all the marks,” Joseph said.

Meat eaters should like the Cut&Carve,a double-sided board that features anonslip base.

“The whole surface is on a slant, so ittakes the juices away so you’re not carvingthe meat in its own juices,” Joseph said.

Every six months, Joseph Joseph launchesnew products. “That’s important, becauseit allows us to be on trend and also addsa bit of fun to what could be a quite boringproduct,” Joseph said. Joseph Josephoccasionally adds a new color or design toits products, but tends to keep to corecolors, so cooks can coordinate thecompany’s products.

The colors also help JosephJoseph market itsproducts. “We wantall of our productsand merchandise tofit well together so itcreates a JosephJoseph store within

the store,” Joseph said.

In January, Joseph Joseph willlaunch a new chopping block that featuresa hidden compartment underneath tocollect choppings or waste, yet it storesflat. “Watch this space,” Joseph said witha laugh. “We’ve got lots of things comingout, always great ideas in the future.”

Tony Ciardelli was unaware of the needfor different styles and sizes of cuttingboards before he took over as CEO ofEpicurean Cutting Surfaces. “It ’simportant to have the right-sized boardfor the task at hand,” Ciardelli said.“Butcher blocks are beautiful, but it’s nicerjust to pull out a 12" by 9" light prepboard so you’re not lugging a big butcherboard around to make a bagel in themorning.”

Epicurean made a name for itself by

being the first on the market with awood composite cutting board, Ciardellisaid, which makes it dishwasher safe.“Cutting boards can be quite fascinating,”Ciardelli said. “Most people probably haveat least five cutting boards in their house.”

Epicurean distributes its cutting boards to50 countries around the world. “Ourcutting boards are in China,” Ciardellisaid. “It ’s quite amazing. Who’d havethought they would be bringing our boardsto China?”

SPECIAL FEATURE www.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW18

THE ENGLISH TABLECUTTING BOARDSThe English Table collection isdesigned for both contemporary andtraditional customers in mind. Theextensive range covers con-temporary cookware as well as morequintessentially English styles. Ourcontemporary glass cutting boardswould add a dash of color to anykitchen. All our cutting boards aremade from toughened glass and areheat resistant to 150ºC. They are alsodishwasher safe, odor and stainresistant. This particular stylish designwould make a welcome addition toany kitchen and would also make afantastic gift.

Creative Tops Ltd.[email] marketing@creative-tops.comwww.creative-tops.com

SCI MARBLE PASTRY &CUTTING BOARDSThese marble pastry and cuttingboards from SCI make a wonderfuladdition to any kitchen. They areavailable in both white and green, invarious sizes to suit everyone's needs.They come perfectly smooth, neverabsorbing fat or moisture, and arealways cool and dry,perfect for rollingout pastry dough.Themarble is an easyclean up after each use.

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

PRODYNE PREP & SLICEThe Prodyne Prep & Slice is perfect forboth barbecue and everyday kitchenuse.This multiuse clean food prep andcarry system features a reversiblecutting board that nests atop an easycarry utility tray.Use the bottom tray toseason or marinate steaks, chops,seafood, chicken, etc. Use the topcutting board to slice and dice meat,seafood and veggies or shape andseason burgers. Then easily carry theseasoned feast right to the BBQ.Aftercooking,place food on cutting board,flipped clean side up, or in the tray.Slice meat as desired on the cuttingboard as juices drip through open slotsaround the edges into the bottomtray, keeping countertops clean. Usefor all everyday cutting board taskswith no countertop mess. Peel, cutand chop fruit, veggies, etc., whilepushing unwanted peelings out of theway through open slots at each end.Also use to carve and slice holidayturkey,ham, roasts and more.Made ofhigh density polypropylene, the boardand tray are dishwasher safe.Suggested Retail Price: $29.99

Prodyne Enterprises[tel] 800.822.4776www.prodyne.com

IRONWOOD GOURMET™3" THICK END-GRAIN STATIONThe Ironwood Gourmet end-grain prepstation and cutting board is made frompremium end grain acacia wood anddoubles as a stylish serving tray. This 14"by 14" workstation is crafted from theenvironmentally friendly acaciawood—a hardwood that creates beautifulcontrasting patterns. The durablepremium end grain construction is 3"thick for added strength—a solid tooland beautiful addition to any kitchen.Designed for discriminating tastes andreflecting the love of everything wood.Suggested Retail Price: $149.99

Fox Run Brands[tel] 800.372.0700www.foxrunbrands.com

LINDEN SWEDEN’SBENDY CUTTING BOARDEveryone can find a favorite Bendycutting board from Linden Swedenbecause it comes in 12 colors. Whatmakes them one of the best on themarket is that they are thicker thanmost,yet flexible to transfer cuttings to the potor pan. It is 2 millimeters thick, and willwithstand years of use. The Bendy isproduced in Sweden of polythene. Itprotects countertops and helps preventcross-contamination; comes in a packof two in either assorted colors orsolid color; measures 11.5" by 14.5"; islightweight and easy to store.Availablein white, black, yellow, blue, lime,pink, orange, sage, red, purple, lightblue and apple green.Suggested Retail Price: $9.25 for a packof two

Linden Sweden[tel] 608.756.8741www.lindensweden.com

HUE BAMBOO RAINBOW WOODCARVING BOARDSucculent holiday turkey and juicyprime rib may be proudly carved andserved at the table with thefunctional and beautiful HUE BambooRainbow Wood Carving Board. Thisgenerously sized carving board is 5/8"thick and measures 18" by 12" withgravy grooves to keep juices fromflowing onto the surrounding surface.Island Bamboo™ is known for havingthe largest selection of eco-friendlybamboo kitchenware. To create thisrichly colored rainbow of wood thatwill not fade, we stain and laminateindividual layers of white birch withthe same adhesive that has provensafe and effective on other IslandBamboo products.Suggested Retail Price: $36

Island Bamboo[tel] 949.492.9921www.islandbamboo.com

FRANMARA WINE BOTTLE-SHAPEDBAMBOO CUTTING BOARDSThese beautifully handcrafted bamboocheeseboardsaredesigned in the shapeof a wine bottles and include a leatherstrap. They are “environmental green”bamboo, which is harder than maple.Theycanbeused forcuttingorevenhungon the wall.We can laser them with yourlogo to make them even more special.Theyareavailable in three sizes: Small (13"by 4" by 5/8"),Medium (17.5" by 5-5/8" by5/8"),and Large (22" by 7-1/8" by 5/8").

Franmara[tel] 800.423.5855www.franmara.com

BUYERS GUIDEwww.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 19

BUYERS GUIDEkitchen cleaning products

Full Circle Fresh Air Indoor Compost Collector

Kamenstein Perfect Tear Paper Towel Holder

Get Happy Palm Brush

Goodbye Detergent Original Spaghetti Scrub

Microfiber Decanter Dryer

Helen’s Asian Kitchen® Bamboo Dish Rack

Full Circle is changing the game in indoorcomposting.Say goodbye to the smell andflies that come with other indoor compostbins on the market. The Fresh Air IndoorCompost Collector by Full Circle is a super-affordable, super easy-to-use countertopcompost bin that keeps scraps odor- and fly-free without the complicated filters or high-maintenance worms. The Fresh Air uses aunique airway system that allows air to flowfreely though the compost bin andbiodegradable breathable bag, whichkeeps scraps dry and prevents them fromsmelling and gathering flies.When it’s timeto bring the scraps to the outdoor compostor composting facility, simply lift the stainlesssteel bar that keeps the bag in place,tie upthe compostable bag and toss the wholething in the composter.The Fresh Air comeswith five biodegradable compost bags.Available in cool earth or green slate colors.Suggested Retail Price: $29.99

Full Circle[tel] 866.259.0727www.fullcirclehome.com

Original Spaghetti Scrubs areenvironmentally friendly scrubs that don’trequire detergent to clean the dishes andkitchen. This line combines 100 percentrecycled and recyclable packaging, aunique shape for tricky cleaning jobs andcleaning from natural abrasives such aspeach pits and corncobs,attached to stripsof cotton/polyester backing, giving it theappearance of a bundle of pasta.Becausethey dry quickly and completely, SpaghettiScrubs remain mold- and bacteria-free.Thecoarse scrub is perfect for heavy-duty jobs,even scrubbing vegetables,while the gentlescrub offers a lighter touch on glass, wood,plastic and non-stick pans.No. of cleaning products: 11Suggested Retail Price: $8.99

This product cleans,dries,and polishes theimpossible-to-reach inside of winedecanters, vases and carafes. This dryergoes where regular towels can't reachand prevents water stains.Quick and easyto use, simply slip the tube over the handleto the tip of the microfiber strips. Then,insert the tube into the vessel, slide off thetube over the handle (microfiber stripsremain in vessel). Roll the handle betweenthe palms of your hands while themicrofiber thoroughly and quickly cleansand dries inside the vessel.Suggested Retail Price: $27.95

Cilio by Frieling USA[tel] 800.827.2582www.frieling.com

Made of bamboo, a naturally renewableresource and an eco-friendly alternativeto wood, wet dishes and glasses will notharm this bamboo rack. The rack foldsflat for easy storage. It measures 20½" by13" when flat and expands to 10" widewhen opened. Helen’s Asian Kitchen isnot affiliated with Joyce Chen Products.No. of cleaning products offered: Morethan 200.Suggested Retail Price: $19.99

Harold Import Co.[tel] 800.526.5263www.haroldimport.com

The Kamenstein Perfect Tear Paper TowelHolder features patented perfect teartechnology that allows users to pull offone paper towel at a time with one handand no unraveling. The product has aweighted base for stability. The stainless-steel finish compliments any kitchen décorand the paper towel roll simply slides overthe top of the finial (knob) when the rollneeds to be changed. It accommodatesregular and jumbo rolls of paper towelsand can be transported from room toroom for easy use.No. of cleaning products offered: 47Suggested Retail Price: $19.99

Kamenstein[tel] 800.252.3390www.lifetimebrands.com

The Kizmos Get Happy Palm Brush is partof the Kizmos Get Happy kitchengadgets collection. Designed to delightand surprise cooks of all ages, KizmosGet Happy gadgets infuse the kitchenwith a burst of bright, vibrant colors andupbeat, smiling faces. The KizmosGet Happy Palm Brush is availablein blue/green, green/dark green,purple/yellow or red/blue.Suggested Retail Price: $3.99-9.99

Lifetime Brands[tel] 800.252.3390www.lifetimebrands.com

Casabella EclipseThe Casabella eclipse™ Microfiber Mopwith Wringer features a microfiber spongehead that lifts and traps dirt and grimewithout chemicals—only water is neededfor power cleaning. Strips ofpolypropylene fibers for scrubbing toughspots are gentle enough to use on wood,tile or marble surfaces. The crescentmoon-shaped head swivels and cleansaround table and chair legs. Themicrofiber sponge head (made from 30percent soy) attaches to the mop withVelcrolike pins built into the mold and canbe easily removed for machine washing.The simple “dip and press” wringingmechanism releases extra water. The mophead is machine washable, reusable andreplaceable. Made in United States withmicrofiber material from China, the mopis Cradle to Cradle certified at the silverlevel.No. of cleaning products offered: Morethan 200Suggested Retail Price: $29.99

Casabella[tel] 800.841.4140www.casabella.com

Fissler USA/ Roland Products Inc.[tel] 800.321.2226goodbyedetergent.com

BUYERS GUIDE KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW20

Skoy ClothSkoy is an eco-friendly household cleaningcloth that outlasts 15 rolls of paper towels.Thisnewapproach tocleaningboasts acloth thatis 100 percent biodegradable,natural and re-usable.The Skoyclothhasanabsorption factorof 15 times its own weight. Skoy is a durablecloth that is washer and dryer safe, whichmeans it can be used multiple times. ThisEuropean-made product is non-toxic andutilizes original artwork designs to add fun aswell as function to the kitchen or bathroom.Suggested Retail Price: $6.99-7.99

Skoy Cloth[tel] 800.990.4757www.skoycloth.com

Down & Dirty Natural Waterless Hand CleanserDown&DirtyWaterless HandCleanser is anall-natural hand cleanser designed to cleanse,soften and refresh the hands. It containsmalachite from the earth, which providesnatural defense;aloevera for smooth skin; andJapanese green tea to revitalize.It is availablein 2-ounce,8-ounce and 32-ounce sizes.Suggested Retail Price: $2.50, $6 and $15

Oh! My Goodness[tel] 972.818.8200www.poopourri.com

Kuhn Rikon Swiss Kitchen Brushes

Three-Piece Microfiber Specialty Cleaning Set

Kuhn Rikon adds a splash of color to cleanupwith these highly functional Swiss KitchenBrushes with amesh scrubber or bristle brushhead. Interchangeable and adjustableheads are angled for ease of use. The softplastic edge at the base of the handle aidsin scraping hard-to-remove foods. Thebrushes are available in red, yellow or blue.Total no. of cleaning products offered: 15Suggested Retail Prices: $7 for the 12” SwissKitchen Tall Brush; $5 for Swiss Kitchen BrushSmall Scrubber

Kuhn Rikon[tel] 800.662.5882www.kuhnrikon.com

The Three-PieceMicrofiber SpecialtyCleaningSet from MÜkitchen comes with set of threetowels,eachwith a specific cleaningpurpose.Stainless has a flatwoven surface that polishesstainless steel, appliances or barware. Glasshas a textured surface that leaves no streaksand 100 percent sparkle on glassware orwindows.Surface has a heavymicrofiber napthat works hard on deep-cleaning jobs.No. of cleaning products offered: 4Suggested Retail Price: $12.99

MÜkitchen[tel] 866.544.2224www.mukitchen.com

Toockie Multipurpose Scrub Cloth SinglesToockie’s Multipurpose Scrub Cloth Singlesare 100 percent organic cotton and handknitted by an Indian women's cooperative.These cloths can be used to wash the dishes,clean stainless-steel appliances, scrub pansand wipe the countertops.These soft clothswon't scratch surfaces or delicate skin.Theyare also easy on the budget because theylast for years and are easy on the planet—nomore disposables.Machinewash and dryoften with any color/temperature.Themorethey are used, the softer they get.No. of cleaning products offered: 4Suggested Retail Price: $4.99

Sinko Corp.[tel] 408.371.3007www.toockies.com

GIFTWAREwww.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 21

Giftware

2011 holiday season forecast also envisionsa pace of sales considerably slower thanduring the first half of 2011, since retailsales generally advanced at a faster pacein early 2011 than during the 2010holiday season.

“Three, compared with the previous 10-year sales performance, 2011 is likely to benear-to-above average depending on thesales metric. Four, the economic andpolitical risks are expected to be higherduring the upcoming season than during2010,” Niemira said.

“But still, on balance, ICSC’s 2011 holidaysales forecast portrays a moderately healthyperformance.”

As consumers continue to do morecooking at home—not only because of theeconomy but because of trends towardmore healthy diets—aprons are among themost versatile products to carry becausethey suit those who are at ease in the

kitchen throwing the holiday party andguests looking for host gifts.

Birdkage has stylish apron selectionsfor women and men in bib, A-line andvintage styles in a variety of patternsfor the kitchen, BBQ grill, garden ormaking crafts. Birdkage aprons retailfrom $22 to $55.

Technology is great, isn't it? It isn't unsualanymore to see the newest high-tech gadgetin the kitchen, but the problem is protectingit from splashes and spills. Catch some of thesales from gadget fever with an iPad RecipeHolder, with a specially designed pocket tohold and protect the iPad while cooking. Itcan hang on a cabinet door or above thestove to save counterspace, too. The iPadRecipe Holder, which retails for $24.99, hasa clear protective sleeve that cleans easilywith a swipe.

Speaking of iPads, have you seeniGrill, the world's first wireless meatthermometer? Foodies who are alsotechies will love the iGrill from iDevices,which is suitable for iPhones and iPodsvia long-range Bluetooth (more than200 feet) and App-enabled connections.

Giftware(Cont. from Page 1)

The iGrill allows multitasking betweenthe guests and the main course,knowing the food is being perfectlycooked at target temperature for safe (andtasty) consumption.

Although pundits are predicting pies willovertake cupcakes as the “it” baked good, weknow that cupcakes are still popular andthere's no shortage of products on the marketto help fill that niche. Cupcaqe'sMuffinmeals puts cuplike holes in muffinsor cupcakes and makes them easy to fill anddecorate.They fit any brand, make or modelpan. The cup slides up or down and locksinto place to make shallow or deep holes.Creative recipes that go beyond cupcakesare posted online at www.cupcaqe.com.

Babycakes features a cake pop maker thatbakes 12 at once. For a gourmet twist onanother classic treat, the whoopie piemaker makes six pies at once. Babycakeseven found a way to make breakfasts funwith its donut maker that makes six mini-doughnuts in four minutes.

Let's not forget that sometimes, all anyoneis looking for is something to beat off thewinter chill. Xtrema's 100 percent ceramic

Swirl Teapot is sustainably made fromnatural minerals and never leaches metalbyproduct or chemicals into the tea. Thestylish tea pot is lightweight, non-scratch,easy to clean and its ceramic surface wardsoff bacteria.

At store level, all these products can bepresented or packaged with specialty food,for a gift that combines instant gratificationand long-term use. Many gourmet foodproducers have much-awaited, limited-edition flavors created specifically for holidaygift-giving. Combined with small kitchengoods or specialty preparation equipment,these make ideal grab-and-go impulse gifts.For example, Stonewall Kitchen not onlymakes premium mixes for cakes, cupcakes,donuts and whoopie pies, but also carries itsown Holiday Pancake Puff Kit featuring itspopular but strictly seasonal Holiday Jam.

Luxury retail spending continues togain ground, and wine is still a great wayto splurge without going overboard.Consider putting together somewine baskets featuring bubbly, winecrackers, chocolate and nuts. And helpyour customers uncork some happinessbefore the new year!

GIFTWARE www.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW22

Average No. No. Copies ofCopies Each Issue Single IssueDuring Preceding Published Nearest

12 Months to Filing Date

Total Number of Copies (Net Press run) 11,760 11,260Paid and/or requested distribution

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Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation 10,744 8,253Nonrequested Distribution

Outside County Nonrequested Copies 537 2,931In-County Nonrequested Copies 0 0Nonrequested Copies Distributed Through theUSPS by Other Classes of Mail 4 0Nonrequested Copies Distributed Outside the Mail 258 5

Total Nonrequested Distribution 799 2,936Total Distribution 11,543 11,189Copies Not Distributed 217 71Total 11,760 11,260Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation 93.1% 73.8%Publication of Statement of Ownership for a Requester Publication isRequired and will be printed in the November 11 issue of this publication.

I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete./s/Lee M. Oser, Publisher 10-01-2011

Publication Title: Kitchenware News & Housewares ReviewPublication Number: 012-625Filing Date: September, 2011Issue Frequency: MonthlyNumber of Issues Published Annually: 12Annual Subscription Price: FreeComplete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: P. O. Box 30520,1877 N. Kolb Rd., Tucson, Pima Co., AZ 85751Contact Person: Rita Stanley, Telephone: 623-537-5310Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher:1877 N. Kolb Rd., Tucson, Pima Co., AZ 85751Publisher: Lee Oser, 1877 N. Kolb Rd., Tucson, Pima Co., AZ 85751Editor: Joanne Friedrick, 1877 N. Kolb Rd., Tucson, Pima Co., AZ 85751Managing Editor: Lorraine Baumann,1877 N. Kolb Rd., Tucson, Pima Co., AZ 85751Owner: Oser Communications Group, LLC, Lee M. Oser, P. O. Box 30520, Tucson, AZ 85751Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 percent ormore of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None

Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: September, 2011

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation

CUCINA PRO WAFFLE IRONSThe 1473 Classic Four Square makesfour individual waffles, the 1474 makesa 7.5" diameter American waffle, the1475 makes a flower of five hearts(approximately 7.5" diameter) and the1476makesa7.5" diameterdeepBelgianwaffle. They all have a non-stick Xylan™surface and come with an on/off andready light.The irons will give an audiblesignal when they are ready to bakeandwhen the setting for thewaffle browninghas been reached. They are ready touse and come with instructions, recipesand stand on end for storage. All ironsinclude a one-year warranty againstdefects in parts or manufacturing.Suggested Retail Price: Round waffleirons (1474, 1475, 1476) $49.99; ClassicFour Square (1473) $59.99

Cucina Pro[tel] 216.351.3002www.cucinapro.com

JURA IMPRESSA J9 ONE TOUCH TFTWinner of the 2011 red dot designaward,the Jura Impressa J9 One TouchTFT is easy to operate: Simply turn therotary dial to choose the desiredspecialty coffee beverage from adigital display, press the button, andthen sit back and savor the taste. It isthe first model in the line to feature thenew TFT color display, offering state-of-the-art technology. View the optionsand select a choice,and then just pressthe button for a cup of crema coffee,espresso, latte, cappuccino or lattemacchiato in less than 60 seconds.Theuser can even personalize the look ofthe machine by selecting wallpaperfor the TFT display. Another Jurainnovation ensures high-quality foamedmilk with a fine consistency.Suggested Retail Price: $2,799

Jurawww.us.jura.com

DECANTUS WINE AERATORCLASSIC SETNew model: A must-have for thoseenthusiastic about wine.The DecantusClassic has some serious curves.Sinuousand graceful, it has two handles foreasy handling while pouring. TheDecantus Classic Wine Aerator wasdesigned in the shape of the classicamphora vase used by the ancientGreeks and Romans to carry and storewine more than 3,000 years ago.

Decantus Wine Aerator is the onlyaerator on the market proven by anindependent laboratory to reducesulphites an average of 56 percent.Theset includes five pieces: DecantusWineAerator with handles, heavy plasticbase, velvet storage pouch, cleaningbrush and a special stainless sedimentscreen, which comes into play whensediment is detected in the wine bottle.Stands 5" high and 4.5" wide at thehandles.Comes in a beautiful four-colorbox. Also it can be customized withlogos. Stand is available. Guaranteedto give greater value and enjoymentfrom the next bottle of wine.Suggested Retail Price: $39.99

Franmara[tel] 831.422.4000www.franmara.com

WÜSTHOF CLASSIC 8" BREAD KNIFECutting through a loaf of bread hasnever been easier than with theWüsthof Classic 8" Bread Knife.The long,serrated edge breaks through toughbread crusts without mashing orshredding the soft interior. This knife isdesigned for all types of bread.One ofthe most versatile knives in the kitchen,the Classic 8" Bread Knife can even beused on tough-skinned fruits andvegetables. The sharp serration cutsthrough tomatoes with ease, creatingthin, even slices every time. It can alsobe used to cut through citrus fruitswithout mashing the delicate pulpinside and even slices through large,tough watermelons without bendingthe sturdy blade.Precision-forged froma single blank of high-carbon stainlesssteel, the full-tang Classic 8" Bread Knifewill last a lifetime in the kitchen. AllClassic knives now use Wüsthof’sPrecision Edge Technology (PEtec),which creates a sharper edge thanever before that lasts twice as long.This German-made knife will becomean instant favorite.Suggested Retail Price: $49.99

Wüsthof-Trident of America Inc.[tel] 800.289.9878www.wusthof.com

EVRIHOLDER DRESSING-2-GO™This innovative,patented and BPA-freeportable container is the easy andconvenient way to transport a favoritesalad dressing virtually anywhere. Bestof all—nomoremess,nomore fuss andno more sticky lunch totes or soggysalads. Eating healthy starts withchoosing, preparing and consuming(in moderation) foods that are not onlygood for you but also taste good. TheDressing-2-Go™ is an excellent way tohelp prepare and eat healthierwhether at home or away from home.The specially designed Dressing-2-Gohas an easy-to-squeeze siliconereservoir base that holds a generous 2ounces,and the leak-proof flip-top capmakes it easy to dispense the dressingover a salad. It’s so easy to use. Simplyunscrew the cap and fill with a favoritedressing, then snap it closed. Perfectfor lunch at the office,as a take alongon trips or picnics.Suggested retail price: $3.99

Evriholder Products[tel] 800.975.0335www.evriholder.com

MAX BURTON INDUCTION SETThe Max Burton® Induction Set 6050 isperfect for holiday gift giving orentertaining.The combination of thesetwo items allows formerly inappropriatecookware such as copper, glass andaluminum to be usedwith the inductioncooktop, saving the user hundreds ofdollars to replace cookware. Thecooktop features 10 power settingsfrom 500 watts to 1800 watts or 10temperature settings from 140º to 450º.With the 180-minute timer,cooking timecan be controlled automatically. Itemsare also available separately.Suggested retail price: $330

Aervoe Industries Inc.[tel] 800.227.0196www.aervoe.com

VIVID WIRELESSWALL SCONCESFrom It’s Exciting Lighting™ this battery-powered, wireless wall sconce accentlights is easy to install.There are no holesto cut, no wires to runand most importantly,no expensive electricalinstallation costs. Thesconce shades areavailable in a variety ofpatterns that emulatestone,granite,burl woodand other attractivefinishes. The productfeatures long lasting,eco-friendly LEDs that createan attractive ambiancewith warm richillumination.Runs on six AAbatteries (notincluded) with more than 200 hours onone set of batteries.

Inventures Products[tel] 800.381.3919www.itsexcitinglighting.com

UPCOMING EVENTSwww.kitchenwarenews.com � NOVEMBER 2011 � KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW 23

Upcoming Events

Core Bamboo .....................................................10

Creative Tops ......................................................17

Epic Products Inc .................................................4

Evriholder............................................................13

Fox Run Brands ....................................................2

Full Circle............................................................20

Hewlett Manufacturing....................................15

Howard Naturals ...............................................12

IHA.........................................................................3

Inventures ............................................................21

Linden Sweden Inc. ...........................................18

Parrish’s Cake Decorating Supplies ..................5

Pillivuyt USA........................................................8

Prodyne ..................................................................9

SCI Scandicrafts Inc. ........................................16

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

Victorinox Swiss Army .....................................24

Vinaroz Cookware...............................................8

Vita Craft ............................................................20

Wilshire Industries LLC ....................................6

Wüstof..................................................................16

ADVERTISER INDEX

Trade Show BuzzNOVEMBER 2011

4-7 Smoky Mountain Gift ShowGatlinburg Convention CenterGatlinburg, TN 678.285.3976

www.urban-expo.com

JANUARY 20127-10 Philadelphia Gift Show

Greater Philadelphia Expo CenterOaks, PA 678.285.3976

www.philadelphiagiftshow.com

11-18 The Atlanta International Gift& Home Furnishings Market

AmericasMartAtlanta, GA, 800.ATL.MARTwww.americasmart.com

15-17 NASFT WinterFancy Food ShowMoscone Center

San Francisco, CA 212.482.6440www.specialtyfood.com

18-24 Dallas Total Home& Gift Market

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

28-Feb. 2 New York International Gift FairJacob K. Javits Convention Center

Piers 92 & 94New York, NY 212.216.2000

www.nyigf.com

“These returning companies realize thebenefits of participating in NYIGF, andthe value of expanding their reach into giftand home channels,” said NYIGFDirector Dorothy Belshaw. “Buyersneeding both summer and winter marketsto shop and source new gourmet resourcesalso benefit.”

The section will have a new location andlayout, accommodating construction atthe Jacob Javits Convention Center. butalso bringing the whole division into asingle, cohesive area. Current exhibitorcount is about 300, but the show hadjust been announced at press time.Winter 2012 NYIGF runs Jan. 28 throughFeb. 2, with Tabletop & Housewaresstarting on Jan. 29.

For those who prefer the West Coast, asimilar scenario will take place at the SFIGF,on Feb. 18-21. (Yes, just enough time torecover from Winter Fancy Food beforegoing right back to Moscone Center.)

BY ROCELLE ARAGON

How odd is it, that even as we approachthe make-or-break holiday season, wemust also already think about 2012?Food producers and retailers will bethinking ahead to the National Associa-tion for the Specialty Food Trade’sWinter Fancy Food, happening in SanFrancisco in January.

But there’s more to come after FancyFood, as both Winter 2012 New YorkInternational Gift Fair and San FranciscoInternational Gift Fair are adding wholenew sections aimed at kitchenware andspecialty food exhibitors.

Citing the success of the first-everGourmet Housewares Show at NYIGFthis past summer, show organizers GLMhave announced that Winter’s Tabletop &Houseware division will be “redefined” toshowcase gourmet housewares companies.Several major exhibiting brands fromsummer have committed to return.

The show’s organizers are launching anew Tabletop, Gourmet & Housewaressection. This will be in addition to thecurrent nine gift and home categories tooffer a one-stop shop for the region’slifestyle retailers.

The section will be at the front of theshow floor, beside the highly traffickedjuried Design section. Exhibitors will beable to reach SFIGF’s current design-oriented buyer base, which includesaccounts such as Williams-Sonoma,Gumps, Pottery Barn, SFMOMAMuseum Store and specialty retailers. Theorganizers are also launching a marketingblitz to reach out to gourmet-orientedbuyers, including hotel discounts forrepresentatives from California’s wineriesand free training sessions specifically forgourmet retailers. Details are still beingfinalized, but combined with themarketing program and buyer incentivesalready in place for SFIGF it’s a prettyattractive package.

C A L E N D A RTRADE SHOW

http://www.swissarmy.com