kitchenware news v17i02

When it comes to picnicware products andportable beverage containers, safety and functionare the keywords for most kitchenwaremanufacturers these days. These two traits areat the top of the list when it comes to the designof new products.

Today’s consumers, especially parents, areincreasingly concerned with the use ofpotentially harmful chemicals within lifestyleproducts. When those products are the onesdesigned to hold food and drinks, the need forsafety becomes doubly important.

From education to exhibitors, the InternationalHome and Housewares Show in Chicago,March 6 to 8, provides retailers withopportunities to see the latest products andcatch up on the hottest trends.

Debbie Teschke, Manager of Public Relationsand Marketing Communications for theInternational Housewares Association inRosemont, Ill., said the approximately 2,000 exhibitors will showcase items viewed by 60,000 attendees, more than a third of whom are buyers.

New this year, she notes, is the Discover Designsection, located in the Dine + Design Expo,which highlights designs from around theworld. The new section is showcasing about 50 companies that were recruited for theirdesign and craftsmanship and selected basedon retailer and industry expert review.

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

Housewares ShowBroadens Selection with Discover Design

by Joanne Friedrick

VOLUME 17, NUMBER 2 FEBRUARY 2011

Safety, Function Are Key in New Picnicware, PortableBeverage Products

by Carrie Bui

Continued on Page 8

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

MARKET WATCH:PICNICWARE

SEE PAGE 1

BUYERS’ GUIDE:TEA KETTLES & ACCESSORIES

SEE PAGE 16

SPECIAL FEATURE:HOUSEWARES SHOW

SEE PAGE 1

INSIDE:SPRING

GIFT GUIDE

Continued on 8

2 Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • FEBRUARY 2011 www.kitchenwarenews.com

http://www.mastrad.us

www.kitchenwarenews.com Kitchenware News & Housewares Review • FEBRUARY 2011 3

O N T H E C O V E R

{ s h o r t s }

6 GUEST COLUMN

10 RETAILER PROFILE

16 BUYERS’ GUIDE

22 AD INDEX

Vinturi Inc. Purchases 60,000-Square-Foot Building growth fueled by expanding nationaland international distribution and newproducts such as the Vinturi DeluxeAerator Set and Vinturi Travel.

The company outgrew its current5,000-square-foot building in less than two years, and is now moving into a facility 12 times larger. The man who designed the Vinturi isplaying an intricate part in designingthe new space.

“Rio is both an innovator and an out-of-the-box thinker. He keeps uschallenged to provide creative andeconomical solutions,” said Ron Sultiff, Principal with IntegratedProject Management LLC, and Project Manager for Vinturi, inprepared remarks.

The new Vinturi headquarters is at3193 Lionshead, Carlsbad, CA 92010-4702. Renovations are expected to becompleted in the first half of 2011.

Vinturi Inc., makers of the Vinturi line ofpatented wine aerators, has purchased a60,000-square-foot building of office and warehouse space for its rapidlygrowing business.

“This is now the seventh largest owner-occupied building in Carlsbad (Calif.), andthe largest owner/user purchase completedin Carlsbad in 2010 to date,” according to a prepared statement by Aric Starck of Cassidy Turley BRE Commercial, which represented Vinturi in the building purchase.

The new building is a testament to thedramatic growth of the company and thesuccess of the patented Vinturi EssentialWine Aerator, invented by Rio Sabadicci,Founder and CEO of Vinturi Inc. Justthree years after the product wasintroduced in 2007 and named one of the“Revolutionary Inventions of 2007” byEntrepreneur magazine, Vinturi is endorsedand available at more than 200 wineriesand a bestseller at retail, with accelerated

Natural Home Products Line Has New OwnerHome Products enterprise will allow us toexplore conscientious sources for everydayproducts and to provide consumers withnew products manufactured in ways thatprotect the environment and the workerswho create them, around the world,” saidBryan Welch, Publisher and EditorialDirector for Ogden Publications, in aprepared statement.

Natural Home Products LLC will be basedin Ogden’s Topeka, Kan., headquarters,with offices in Bentonville, Ark., and SanRamon, Calif. Andrew Perkins has beenpromoted to Director of Merchandisingand Events, and will oversee product

development, merchandising andmarketing for the subsidiary. Bill Mitchell,Founder of Cataluña Enterprises, hasjoined Ogden and continues in his rolerunning Natural Home Products.

Ogden Publications Inc. is the leadinginformation resource serving thesustainable living, rural lifestyle, farmmemorabilia and classic motorcyclecommunities. Key brands include Mother Earth News, Natural Home, Utne

Reader, Capper’s and Grit. OgdenPublications also provides insurance andfinancial services through its Capper’sInsurance Service division.

Ogden Publications acquired CataluñaEnterprises, the company responsible for introducing Ogden’s Natural Homeline of kitchenware.

Cataluña will be renamed Natural HomeProducts LLC and will continue to useOgden’s brands to develop products forsale in retail stores and other markets.Natural Home Products currently sellssustainable kitchenware in Target andMeijer stores nationwide.

“Our publications provide readers with theknowledge they need to live inspiredsustainable lifestyles. Our new Natural

february 2011contents

by Micah Solomon

WALL LENK CORP.Bella Tavola Fondue & Chafing Burner[tel] 252.527.4186www.wlenk.comwww.bellatavolatools.com

VTT PRODUCTSChop-A-Lot[tel] 760.636.5858www.vttproducts.com

ZAK DESIGNSAmore Bowl Set[tel] 509.244.0555www.zak.com

NORPROTea Infuser With Rim and Handle[tel] 800.722.0202www.norpro.com

BARTULE[tel] 888.755.8853www.bartule.com

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MARCHMeasuring Tools

Outdoor Living MarketwatchKNHR at the Housewares Show

Flatware Buyers’ Guide

futurefeature


As I write this, I’ve just returned from the Consumer Electronics Show(CES) in Las Vegas, and I’m still reeling in amazement from the advancesin technology. CES 2011 featured the usual gaming, digital imaging and television displays, butthis year, they also introduced a Connected Home Appliances Techzone. Our appliances nowhave the ability to connect with our smartphones and tablets; a robotic mop can navigate andclean a room using an internal GPS system; or a USB plug and a jump drive give us the opportunityto upgrade the settings on our washing machine.

Those are just a few of the technological innovations that some of today’s leading appliance makersintroduced at CES. I am excited to see how these products can be incorporated into the moderndigital kitchen, and used in conjunction with our housewares gadgets and small appliances.Kitchenware News & Housewares Review has seen the 21st century kitchen, and we’re excitedand impressed. We look forward to continuing to bring you the latest and greatest innovationsin the kitchenware and housewares industry.

Speaking of trade shows, I’m sure many of you are preparing for next month’s International Home+ Housewares Show, and Editor Joanne Friedrick offers a look at what we can expect to see inChicago next month. We also have a sneak peek at a number of the products you’ll be able tosee at the show beginning on page 17.

Thinking of next month reminds me that spring is just around the corner, and our Spring GiftGuide on page 11 can help you choose the right products for your shelves. You can also checkout Associate Editor Carrie Bui’s article on picnicware items and portable beverage containers.She writes about how some manufacturers are responding to consumer safety concerns, as wellas shares some of the new product offerings for this year.

We look forward to seeing you next month in Chicago!

Lee M. Oser, Publisher

Throughout the holiday shopping season, stories blanketed the TVand newspapers regarding improved sales. People were spendingmore, they began shopping earlier and they maintained that momentum through ChristmasEve and then with the after-the-holiday sales.

Whether that rosy outlook will continue into 2011 is yet to be determined, but after severalrather dismal years, it was a relief to retailers to find people filling their stores and actuallybuying gifts for others and items for themselves as well.

Even if the economy is coming around, this isn’t the time to let down your guard. Retailersmay not have to work as hard for a sale, but it ’s important to remain vigilant aboutcustomer service and value.

Our guest column this month offers some ideas on how to make the shopping experiencethe best it can be, and our retailer profile about Function Junction in Kansas City sharesthe story of a kitchenware store operator who has been in business for more than 30 years.

The longevity of that store is based on solid principles that influence buying decisions,employee training and customer interaction. But these store owners aren’t sitting back andresting on their laurels. Instead, they are coming up with new ideas to bring excitementto the store and yes, dipping their toes into social networking. They recognize that to berelevant today you not only need to stick with what worked, but also try something new.

I hope you are able to take away some new ideas with each issue of Kitchenware News. Andthat you’ll let me know if there is something you’re doing that you want to share with othersin the industry.

Joanne Friedrick, Editor

[email protected]

publisher’snote

editor’snote

http://www.lindensweden.com/

http://www.hannongroup.com


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

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

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PUBLISHER Lee M. OserEDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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

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PRESIDENT Lee M. Oser

{ h e a d l i n e s }Allyson’s Kitchen closed its Bend, Ore., storeDec. 31, citing repercussions from the recessionand debt from the original owners as the mainreasons for the closure. The store’s flagshiplocation in Ashland, Ore., will remain open.

Lynne Galligan, President, CEO and themajority owner of the store said in a preparedrelease: “Our staff has worked hard to try tomeet customer needs and grow the businesswith some innovative new products andservices, such as supporting local artists, sellingrefurbished KitchenAid products and addingour successful wine club. Unfortunately, it

hasn’t been enough and we were unable toabsorb further losses. I am really sorry wehad to make this decision. I will miss thegreat friends we have made in Bend.”

Galligan took over Allyson’s Kitchen fromSteve and Allyson Holt in January 2009 whenthe Holts were faced with significant financialtrouble. Galligan hoped to ride out therecession after taking over the chain. While theBend store never fully recovered, the Ashlandstore is showing steady sales and it will remainopen. The Bend store offered merchandise onclearance its final week, and held a final Friday

night wine tasting on Dec. 31. Gift cardholders are able to redeem cards at theremaining store, via telephone or online atwww.allysonskitchen.com.

The Holts started Allyson’s Kitchen in 2000 inAshland. Devoted to the home chef andentertainer, Allyson’s Kitchen in Ashland is twofloors of specialty kitchenware items, a deli,demonstration kitchen, cooking classes andgourmet foods. The Bend location opened in2008 with the addition of new owners. Allyson’sKitchen is owned by a group of Oregon investorscalled Neighborhood Gourmet Partners.

Kitchenware Store Closes Bend, Ore., Location

http://www.housewares.org


Building Customer Loyalty—And Your Bottom Line:Six Essential Moves to Make at Your Business

In these still shaky economic times, it ’simportant to find a way to escapecommodity-style pricing wars andstrengthen the marketing backbone of yourcompany. The most reliable and affordableway to achieve both these goals is bybuilding a strong personal bond with yourcustomers. Loyal customers see you asmore valuable than a mere commodity,and can serve you as a powerful marketingarm, going out of their way to promote anddefend your company online and off—forfree. Here are six moves to make that willset the stage for building true, bankablecustomer loyalty.

Completely nail your hellos andgoodbyes. Customers remember the firstand last minutes of a service encountermuch more vividly—and for muchlonger—than all the rest of it, because ofthe way human memory works. Make surethe first and final elements of yourcustomer interactions are particularly wellengineered, because they are going to stickin the customer’s memory.

Strive to remember—and acknowledge—each returning customer. Work to achievethe computer-assisted effectiveness of a beloved bartender, doorman orhairstylist—the kind who would know acustomer’s preferences, the name of theirpet, when they last visited your store.Superb client tracking systems—and anattentive staff—can create that same “at home” feeling in your customers,regardless of the size and price point of your business, and whether it existsonline or off.

Anticipate customer wishes rather thanjust responding to them. When acustomer’s wish is met before the wish hasbeen expressed, it sends the message thatyou care about the customer as anindividual. This may seem like it requireswizarding knowledge, but in essence it issimply founded on paying attention andknowing your customers. And it ’s well

worth the effort: The cared-for feeling acustomer gets when her wishes areanticipated is where you will generate thefiercest loyalty.

The language you use matters. Don’t leaveit up to chance. Develop and rehearse alist of vocabulary words and expressionsthat fit your business brand perfectly. Forexample, the expression “no worries"sounds fine if a clerk at an audio store saysit, but would be exceedingly off-brand fora salesperson at Cartier. Equally important,search and destroy any vocabulary wordsthat could hurt customer feelings. Forexample, your service team should nevertell a customer “you owe us.”

Do the hustle. Modern customers expectspeedier service than did any generationbefore them. In this age of iPhones andDroids and Amazon.com, you may as wellnot deliver your product or service if you’regoing to deliver it late.

Be patient when filling positions in yourorganization. In an organization aimingfor superb service, a single disagreeable orunresponsive team member can erodecustomer loyalty and team morale. That iswhy it can be better to leave a positionunfilled rather than rushing to hiresomeone unsuitable. Customer excellenceis most fully achieved once you becomeexpert at recruiting, selecting, training,evaluating and reinforcing the efforts ofservice personnel.

Micah Solomon is one

of the top speakers to

business on customer

service issues and the

co-author of the recent

bestseller “Exceptional

Service, Exceptional

Profit: The Secrets of

Building a Five-Star

Customer Service Organization.” Information

and resources from Solomon can be found at

http://customerserviceguru.com.

columnguest

by Micah Solomon

http://ww.bellatavolatools.com

http://www.aervoe.com/induction


http://www.zokuhome.com


In addition to safety, inspired functionality isalways necessary to keep a category strong,and new outdoor entertaining and picnicwareoptions this year are offering consumers evenmore reason to enjoy a backyard picnic.Prodyne’s introduced an acrylic Fruit InfusionPitcher—BPA-free, of course—that makesinfusing beverages easy. Add cut lemons,berries, mint or more into the fruit infusionrod and slide it into the pitcher. Open slotswithin the rod allow the flavor of the fruitsor herbs to mix into the liquid. The pitcheralso includes a removable freezer ice tubethat can be screwed onto the lid and helpskeep beverages chilled for a couple hours.

The combination of nice, yet functionaldesign at a reasonable price point has provedto appeal to customers. McArdle said thatProdyne’s various outdoor entertaining lines“have been very successful” and they “continueto see that as a strong category.”

McCormack said 2010 was Picnic Time’sbest year ever, thanks to a trend of shorter,more localized vacations. “People are lookingfor something that doesn’t cost a lot of money,but really has that inner fulfillment.

Picnic Time emphasizes ease in its productofferings, and focuses on designing picnicwareand outdoor entertaining products to meetpeople’s needs. Picnic goers often have theirhands full, and Picnic Time designs productsto address this problem, explainedMcCormack. “The ease of carrying thoseitems is critically important so all of our itemsare designed for ease of carrying it,” he said.Easier carrying was a goal in the redesigned

Picnicware (Cont. from p.1)One of the chemicals that has captured thepublic’s attention is Bisphenol A (BPA). Thechemical is often used in hard plastic foodcontainers, and while not yet proven to beharmful to adults and children, recent studieshave reported some effects in lab animals,according to the U.S. Department of Healthand Human Services’ website. That’s enoughreason for plenty of consumers to not take anychances, and many manufacturers areresponding by offering products made withBPA-free materials.

“A lot of people are turning toward BPA-freematerial. That’s probably the leading driveras far as outdoor entertaining products,” saidScott McArdle, Sales Director for Prodyne.

Scott McCormack, Director of Sales andMarketing for Picnic Time, said the biggestchange their company has seen within thecategory has been the focus on safety. Issuesof safety, such as lead and cadmium content,as well as meeting the standards set by theConsumer Product Safety Improvement Actof 2008, are “first and foremost right now.”

“We test every item like it was made forchildren,” said McCormack.

Thermos, a leading manufacturer of portablefood containers, lists safety as a top priorityfor one of its consumer segments, “thepurposeful mom.” Thermos has made acommitment to produce all of its productswith BPA-free materials, and they’ve madethird-party safety testing results of Thermosproducts available on their website.

Topanga cooler tote. Picnic Time made the bagslightly longer and deeper. Narrowing the toteallows it to fit comfortably over the shoulderand under the arm with a strap, and leaveshands free to carry another item.

“(Picnicware) has expanded into more of a fullrange solution,” said McCormack. To meet thecategory’s changing needs, Picnic Time willintroduce about 100 new items in 2011, from abean bag throw game to an improved Oniva seat.The stadium-style Oniva seat was released threeyears ago, and allows for more comfort with alarger, padded adjustable back rest. “The Onivaand Ventura seats are very innovative. To havethat level of comfort while you’re sitting on theground was unheard of,” he said. The 2011edition will incorporate armrests to the metal-framed seat. They’ve also introduced a 48-cancooler, perfect for larger events and outings.

Thermos will introduce a new line of productsthis year geared toward the “super commuter”segment. “An average of 35 percent of U.S.commuters are actually on the road for longerthan 30 minutes,” said Julie Ryan, SeniorDirector of Marketing at Thermos. A studyof super commuters revealed people weremost concerned with having a hot cup ofcoffee or tea. Thermos developed the Sipp,a leakproof travel bottle. The new bottleincorporates a “new to market flip-top lid,”explained Ryan, “with a one-hand pushbutton opening with a drink well.” The newlid controls the flow of liquid better, byallowing the liquid to fill the well first,avoiding spills and burns.

The travel bottle offers a sleek, modernizeddesign, in black, white, teal and purple. Hotbeverages will stay hot in the 16-ounce bottlefor up to 12 hours, and cold beverages shouldmaintain their temperature for up to 24 hours.

The Sipp line includes six products—thetravel bottle, mug, tumbler, hydration bottleand two food jars. Every item is made of avacuum-insulated stainless steel. As peoplebring more food from home out with them,there’s a need for safe food storage jars. A16-ounce food jar keeps hot food for up toseven hours, and cold food up to nine hours.

ZAK DESIGNS ICE CREAM KEEPERWith this patent-pending Ice CreamKeeper, frozen treats can be enjoyedanywhere summer takes you. Featuringfoam-core insulation nestled betweenthe double walls of durable plastic, the IceCream Keeper has the same propertiesas most heavy-duty coolers but in a muchsmaller container. The Ice Cream Keeperhas a screw-off lid designed to be storedin the freezer. When frozen, the special gelin the lid helps keep ice cream cold forup to an hour-and-a-half, depending onthe outside temperature. Available inwhite, kiwi, orange and turquoise. It’s largeenough to hold a pint-sized containerfrom the store, or more if filled with home-made ice cream or any other cold treat.

Zak Designs[tel] 509.244.0555 www.zak.com

PIANO CHEESEBOARDThis exquisite grand piano-designedcheeseboard features a recessed juicegroove on the piano lid, and twostainless steel cheese tools and acorkscrew are tucked neatly under the lid. The cheeseboard is made ofdark bamboo.

Picnic Time[tel] 888.742.6429 www.picnictime.com

CORN COBB’RThis innovative and functional productremoves corn from the cob safely andeasily. With a specially designed handlefor easy grip, your hands will never slipand your fingers are never exposed to theblade. The sharp blade comes with aplastic cover to protect fingers when notin use. The Corn Cobb’R makes cuttingkernels off the cob an effortless, even funtask. This is the perfect accessory to anysummer barbecue, picnic or party. Suggested Retail Price: $3.99

Evriholder[tel] 800.975.0335www.evriholder.com

BAMBOO CUTTING BOARDSThese beautifully handcrafted bamboocheese boards are designed in theshape of a wine bottle and include aleather strap. They are environmentallyfriendly. Bamboo is harder than maple.Use them for cutting or even hang themon the wall. Franmara can laser theboards with your logo to make themmore special. They are available in threesizes: Small (13" x 4" x 5/8"), Medium (17-1/2" x 5-5/8" x 5/8"), and Large (22" x 7-1/8" x 5/8").

Franmara[tel] 831.422.4000www.franmara.com

http://www.howardproducts.com


http://www.metrokane.com

http://www.vttproducts.com

http://www.evriholder.com


Guided by the same principles that were thefoundation of Function Junction’s launch in1977, the 2011 version of the store remainscentered on quality, value and accessiblekitchenware products, but has also adaptedto changing times.

Mary Merola and Rebecca Wilkie, Co-Owners of the 5,500-square-foot store inKansas City, Mo., realized that the gourmetevolution that began in the ’70s has maturedand evolved, but the basics remain the same.

“We still evaluate and select products basedon those principles,” said Merola, addingthat in the current economy, special attentionis paid to the value. “We’re dealing with aneconomy now where people want value, butare more price sensitive,” she said.

Merola, who founded Function Junction,said the store has stood the test of timebecause the focus has been on the productsand customer service. “We put products frontand center,” she explained. “There’s not a lotof elaborate shelving. The store is easy toshop, and shopability is important.”

The store is open seven days a week, and is partof a shopping, entertainment, office and condocomplex created by Hallmark called CrownCenter. Function Junction employs 12 full-and part-time associates, all of whom have

what Wilkie described as “a passion for cooking.”

Along with evolving with the economicchanges from year to year, Merola said she hasalso witnessed developments in competition,and has had to respond accordingly. Thedepartment stores that dominated thelandscape in the 1970s have given way tothe big box stores, national chains and, ofcourse, the Internet.

“The Internet forces us to be aware on anational level,” said Merola. “We have to beaware of people’s price sensitivity and becompetitive.” Consumers aren’t onlycomparing prices locally, she noted, but aregoing online to search for the best deals.

Although the Web represents just a smallpercentage of their business, Wilkie said theyview it more as an information-giving tool forshoppers. The store stocks about 3,000 SKUs,of which just 500 to 600 are sold online. While shoppers may use the Internet forcomparison shopping, there is still nothingthat compares with having a tool in hand andtrying it out. In 2010, Function Junctionadded a demonstration kitchen called theCulinary Studio. Wilkie said the store’swebsite informs shoppers about upcomingdemos and classes.

The employees also reinforce the message

that customers can try out productsand gain firsthand knowledge byasking questions. “Our salespeople aremore than cashiers,” said Merola.“They can talk intelligently about theproducts.” She and Wilkie also makea point of being available to helpconsumers, and Merola teaches someof the cooking classes.

The Culinary Studio, said Wilkie,brings good food, fun and hands-onlearning together “in a way that ’s verysuccessful.” Since it opened, the studio hasbeen the site of a bachelorette party witha full Italian menu and team-buildingevents for up to 30 people.

“It’s been a great place to get together overfood and have a great time,” said Wilkie.

Both Merola and Wilkie acknowledge thatwhile they are continuing to explore theoptions with the studio, they are also workingon building their social networking skills.

“We aren’t of the generations where Facebookand Twitter come easily,” said Wilkie, adding“we haven’t maximized the benefits of thosetools. I know it’s vital, and we’ve put our toeinto the water.”

Even with more than 30 years in the business,Merola said “you’re forced to be cutting edgeall the time, whether it’s a newsletter, arewards program, Facebook or Twitter.”

In August, Function Junction began itsrewards program, collecting email and

mailing addresses and birth months fromcustomers. During the month of theirbirthday, they get a $10 rewards card. Theycan also accrue additional rewards by makingpurchases in the store and having those salestracked. When they reach $250 in sales, theyreceive another discount card. Rewardscustomers are also invited to private shoppingevents during the year.

Merola and Wilkie said they personallywrite out the letters that thank people forjoining and sign all the birthday greetings.“People appreciate being recognized,” saidMerola. “They are asked for their (personal)information so often, it’s nice to rewardthem for it.”

Another recently launched program was theFJ Nooner, aimed at workers in the nearbyoffice buildings. Wilkie said the store teamedwith local restaurants to provide a $5 lunchfor shoppers, then added in five daily treasuresthat were on special between 11 a.m. and 1p.m. The items, said Wilkie, were markeddown at or below cost, and clues to what theitems might be were sent out via Facebook.“Every day we put a clue on the Facebookpage about the daily treasure along with themenu,” she said.

The whole event, said Wilkie, had a piratetheme that was reinforced in store with musicand appeared on fliers that were distributedwithin Crown Center. The event ran inSeptember and October and plans are torepeat it in the spring, she said.

Function Junction has also gotten on thebuy-local bandwagon, said Wilkie, in part toshow support for area businesses. “Peoplehave really rallied around independentbusiness owners and the push to buy local,”she said. “We carry several local vendors,”including coffee, barbecue sauce, cuttingboards and Vita Craft cookware.

Merola, who does the store’s buying, hasvendor relationships that span the 30-plusyears the store has been in business, and shenoted she doesn’t change vendors easily.Buying locally-made items addressesconsumer concerns about the influx ofproducts from overseas, said Merola.

“But they have to recognize that it will costmore,” she said. In the case of Vita Craft, shenoted, “I can say with confidence andconviction it is worth the price.” And forany skeptics, Merola is happy to demonstratethe cookware in the store’s studio.

She said the buy-local movement has atrickle-down effect: “You support us, wesupport Vita Craft and they can keep theirjobs and spend money in the community.”

by Joanne Friedrick

Retailer ProfileFunction Junction

Photo Credit: Matt Kocourek

http://www.scandicrafts.com

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

VOLUME 17, NUMBER 2 FEBRUARY 2011

springg i f t g u i d e


spring gift guideZAK DESIGNS PLASTIC CONTAINERSZak Designs’ durable plasticcontainers are made with atransparent material that provides fora quick visual confirmation of whateach container holds. The containersare designed to stack securely, sowhether consumers want to keep aconsistent color statement across theircounter, or mix and match to createa unique pattern in the kitchen, thecontainers keep essential ingredientswithin reach, without sacrificingvaluable counter space for the sakeof convenience. The organized bakerin the family will love the stackability

of these containers along with thefact that they have a silicone airtightseal that keeps out moisture. Thecontainers are great for storing andorganizing items in the kitchen,bathroom or even office. They areavailable in 2.5-, 1.5-, and 1-quart sizes,and a mini 6.75-ounce size. Canisterscome in clear, smoke and assortedbright colors. No matter where they’reused, these containers let consumersstore in style.

Zak Designs[tel] 509.244.0555 www.zak.comSEDONA FOOD DEHYDRATOR

BY TRIBESTDesigned for making dehydrationsimple, the nine-tray Sedona® FoodDehydrator by Tribest® is stylish yet easyto use. Sedona offers a digital controlpanel used to accurately set andmonitor a single temperature between86°F and 155°F and a drying time upto 150 hours, worry-free. Because not allrecipes require nine trays, use lessenergy and eliminate excess waste by programming Sedona to use onlyone drying compartment. The ability todivide Sedona into two dryingcompartments, an upper and a lower,allows for drying up to four, five or ninetrays of food at a time. Built with a glasssee-through door topped with a piano

black finish, Sedona also comes withnine BPA-free plastic open trays, nine BPA-free plastic mesh screens and one BPA-free plastic closed tray.Additionally, Sedona utilizes dual fantechnology that allows each fan tooperate independently, distributingheated air evenly to dry foods moreefficiently. The Sedona motor invertsAC power to DC power, offering quietmotor operation. Furthermore, Sedonacan also be set from day mode tonight mode for whisper-quiet operationduring the evening hours. Suggested Retail Price: $399

Tribest Corp.[tel] 714.879.7150www.tribest.com

BT-4601 BELLA TAVOLA FONDUE & CHAFING BURNERThe easy to use, automatic ignitionFondue & Chafing Burner is perfect forprofessional chefs or just entertainingat home. This compact, butane-powered burner features an adjustableflame control lever, safety mechanismturn-off stopper, built-in pressure releasevalve, non-tip wide base and refillablereservoir. The small, lightweight burnercan last up to 90 minutes on the lowsetting. It is ideal for use with fonduepots, chafers, stone grills, raclette sets,soup tureens, and coffee andbeverage urns. It can also be used asa cooktop with the optional CookingPlatform (BT-46). The Fondue & ChafingBurner is part of the Bella Tavola line, abutane-powered culinary tool line byWall Lenk Corp. The Bella Tavola line isthe only complete program thatincludes butane.Suggested Retail Price: $39.99

Wall Lenk Corp.[tel] 252.527.4186[email] [email protected]

FISSLER BLUE POINT PRESSURE PAN SETGrill, sear, fry, sauté, braise, andpressure cook with the Blue PointPressure Pan Set. The extra-large 4.2quart skillet is equipped with theNovogrill frying surface for low-oilgrilling, the energy-saving CookStarall-stove base, and comes with apressure lid, glass lid and steamerbasket for maximum versatility. Withall of Fissler’s safety systems, includingthe Euromatic safety valve, thePressure Pan is completely silent under pressure, dishwasher safe and works on any stove includinginduction. Made in Germany with alifetime warranty. Suggested Retail Price: $270

Fissler USA[tel] 888.347.7537www.fissler.com

http://www.parasia-international.com/


spring gift guideFIRE WIRE FLEXIBLE GRILLING SKEWERSFire Wire® Flexible Grilling Skewers enableyou to be a gourmet griller even on thego. Food moves seamlessly frommarinade, to the grill, to the plate thanksto the flexible, stainless steel design thatallows the griller to marinate the foodafter it has been loaded on the skewer.By putting the tip outside the grill, notools are required to turn or remove theskewers. Fire Wire is dishwasher safe and comes with a lifetime guarantee.The product comes with excellentmerchandising support. Their innovativemerchandising kit includes an actual grillwith a full color advertisement wrap, redrope lights, a Fire Wire skewer loadedwith fake food, and a 7-inch video

screen that loops the Fire Wireinstructional video. The Fire WireMarinating Kit is an all-natural blend ofherbs and spices and is a great companion to the skewers. FireWire and the marinating kits displaynicely atop the display grill as the fakefood “cooks.” Take advantage of thismerchandising package and Fire Wirewill give you enough free skewers to offset your cost. For more about Fire Wire,or to preview the Fire Wire video, visitwww.firewiregrilling.com or [email protected].

Fire Wire[tel] 620.229.9800[email] [email protected]

COME CLEAN NATURAL CLEANING SETFull Circle’s Come Clean naturalcleaning set is a must have this spring.With the continuing trend towardsgreen cleaning and DIY in the homethis is a perfect spring gift item. Thismake-your-own natural cleaning setcomes with two spray bottles, amixing container, a microfiber clothand Clean House Green House, thecomplete guide to making a quick

and easy transition to green cleaning.This book goes beyond vinegar andbaking soda; however all ingredientscan be found at your local grocerystore. You will have the tools to cleanyour kitchen, bath, glass, upholstery,wood, furniture, silver, pet stains andyour car. And because you use lemonin so many of the recipes (it’s anatural disinfectant) the bottles havethe lemon juicer built in. The full setcomes in a lovely carrying case that

can merchandise on shelves or hangon a peg. There is also a single bottleoption that comes with the cleaningcloth and book. Get it in stores now—the set will be featured in upcomingissues of Food & Wine and MarthaStewart Living.

Full Circle[tel] 866.259.0727[email] [email protected] www.fullcirclehome.com

http://www.franmara.com


spring gift guide

SILICONE CHOCOLATE MOLDSJust like the true chocolateconnoisseurs, you can now makeperfect chocolates from the comfortof your own home. These flexible siliconemolds are made in Italy. They are easyto use, long lasting and non-toxic. Theyare oven-, microwave-, refrigerator-, andfreezer-safe. They can also be used asbutter molds, and are available in manydifferent styles.Suggested Retail Price: $11.95

SCI Scandicrafts[tel] 800.966.5489www.scandicrafts.com

POACHPOD STAINLESSThis stainless steel egg cooking tool fromfusionbrands allows you to poach, bakeand mold your eggs. The pod floats inwater while poaching, and has a highheat resistance. The poachpod isnonstick and dishwasher safe. Availablein a set of two.Suggested Retail Price: $14.99

fusionbrandswww.fusionbrands.com

CUPCAKE 2 GOWhether they’re homemade or store-bought, the cupcake trend is ever-growing and always popular. Whetherit’s for birthday parties, or justeveryday fun, cupcakes are agrowing expression of love andaffection, and a great way to addfun and flavor too. And now, there’sa way to protect your cupcakeswherever you go. Evriholder Products,LLC introduces its new Cupcakes 2Go—an adorable cupcake holderthat is not only cute and whimsical,but will also keep your cupcake andfrosting in perfect condition whenyou’re on the go. With a unique domelid and prongs designed to hold thecupcake securely in place, theCupcake 2 Go looks like a cupcakeand has ample room to keep thatdelicious frosting in place and lookinggood. No more squished cupcakeswith frosting everywhere but on thecupcake. This is the ultimate cupcakeon-the-go solution. Suggested Retail Price: $2.99


SIGNATURE HOUSEWARES DOTSDOTS from Signature Housewares is afun and happy look that’s perfect forspring 2011. Your choice of five boldcolors for dinnerware, baking dishesand fun accessories allow for a largestatement, a single item or anything inbetween. This durable stoneware isdishwasher safe and microwave safe,lead-free and built to last. DOTS isavailable now.Suggested Retail Prices: $7.99-24.99

Signature Housewares[tel] 805.484.6666www.sighouse.com

RABBIT FLIP-TOP BOSTON SHAKERThe Boston Shaker is the cocktail shaker preferred by bartenders worldwide. Now Rabbit Barware has given it a flip-top lid with built-in strainer. And measurements are clearly printed on the glass shaker, so it’s easier than ever to measure, mix and serve cocktails at home with the Flip-Top Boston Shaker. It’s the newest addition to Metrokane’s successful line of patented Flip-Top Shakers. Includes a free recipe booklet that has recipesfor all the most popular cocktails.

Metrokane[tel] 212.759.6262www.metrokane.com

http://www.tribest.com


DALOPLAST OF SWEDENMix and match your Anita cuttingboards and covers, now available ina larger size, with the SwedishSpreader Knife. The cutting boardsare made of polythene, will not dullknives and are dishwasher safe. Alarge board measures 13.25" by 9.75".Covers are clear acrylic.Suggested Retail Prices: $9.95 for largecutting board, $10 for cover, $1.75-$2.25for knives

Linden Sweden[tel] 952.465.0052www.lindensweden.com

MÜKITCHEN COTTON TOWELSSuper utility meets classic kitchen flairwith these two favorites—the flour sackand bar mops. The flour sack is extra softand made of absorbent 100 percentcotton. Each set of two oversized towelsincludes one solid and one printeddesign. Lint-free towels are great fordrying dishes, polishing glassware andcovering dough. The Bar Mop Cloth andTowel is top quality 100 percent ribbedterry cotton and hemmed all around forextra durability. This is a must have basicfor cleaning and drying. Both productsare imported from India.

MÜKitchen[tel] 866.544.2224www.mukitchen.com

COMBO DELUXE ELECTRIC PEPPER/SALT MILLFinally an electric mill that can grindpepper and salt in one unit! Stainlesssteel housing with solid state ceramicgrinding mills does a great job ingrinding pepper and coarse sea salt.With a touch of a button, you can grindeither one. This two-compartment millfeatures peppercorns on one side andcoarse sea salt on the the other side.Another great feature is that you canadjust the grind from fine to coarse,and it includes a cover on the bottomto keep the mill clean. Uses four AAbatteries.


VOLUMETRIC SPOON SCALEUse this scale from ParasiaInternational for portion control,international recipes, etc. The scalefeatures both weight and volumemeasurements. It displays thevolumetric weight of the nine mostcommon ingredients (wine, syrup, milk,oil, salt, flour, brown sugar, powderedsugar and water). The displayedweight unit is selectable betweengrams and ounces. The volume units are cup, milliliters, tablespoonand teaspoon. Features twodetachable/interchangable scoopsfor easy clean-up. (Scoops aredishwashwer safe.) The scale has alarge, easy-to-read LCD display andfeatures accumulative function forup to 105 ounces. A hold functioncan freeze the reading on the LCD.Includes low battery indicator andauto power off.Suggested Retail Price: $34.99

Parasia International[tel] 763.267.7900www.parasia-international.com

CRADLE ROUND BOWLThis vessel is finely crafted toharmoniously fit both the modern andtraditional tables. The wood and alloypieces combine the warm naturalblend of acacia wood with Nambémetal, ideal for fashioning acontemporary dining experience.Suggested Retail Price: $225

Nambé[tel] 800.443.0339www.nambe.com

spring gift guide

CUCINA PRO CLASSIC WAFFLE BAKERCucinaPro is proud to announce its fullline-up of Classic Waffle Bakers will beavailable in early April. CucinaProPresident Pat Dittoe said, “We broughttwo upscale waffle irons about twoyears ago, a four-square Belgian at a$79.99 retail and a Round Heart at a$59.99 retail. They sold very well butmany of our customers asked forround waffle bakers at $49.99 or even$39.99 and a four square at $59.99 or$49.99. As usual, the customer wasright. Our three Round Waffle Bakers(heart, Belgian and classic) sold verywell this fall. We will have ourBelgian/American four at a time instock soon.” These bakers all havebetween six and seven heat settingsfor individual waffle browning control,Xylan nonstick coating for easyrelease and between 1100 and 1200watts of cooking power. They are alldesigned by Gene Vitantonio ofVillaWare fame.

Cucina Pro[tel] 216.351.3002www.cucinapro.com

ROUND PANS Parrish’s stocks the largest assortmentsof round cake pans with diameters from2" to 24" and depths from 1" to 3½". Allare made of heavy-gauge aluminum,which ensures even baking andoutstanding durability.

Parrish’s Cake Decorating[tel] 310.324.8277www.parrishsmagicline.com

European products for distribution in theUnited States. The mills have been wellreceived in the United States for theirquality and design, offering more than300 items in a rainbow of colors andvariety of materials.

Marlux is a small French factory thathas been family-owned for the past 70years. Products created from wood tapinto sustainable managed forests andeverything used for cleaning the steelparts is environmentally safe andecologically sound. Marlux makes everyeffort to repair equipment rather thanabandon it to avoid adding totechnology “dumps.”

Pillivuyt USA[tel] 952.938.1672www.pillivuytus.com

MARLUX MILLSIn the spring of 2010, Pillivuyt USA addedMarlux mills and grinders to its line-up of


OSKAR SOFTBREW TEAPOTThe Sowden Oskar SoftBrew teapot is a high-qualityporcelain teapot with a stainless steel micro filter forthe best tasting tea. The advanced technology trapsthe tea leaves in the stainless steel filter and separatesthem from the water with enough brewing flow tocapture the full taste. The hollow handle createsinsulation so it does not get hot. It looks great with anytable setting with its modern feel and simple lines.Available in two sizes: 17 ounces and 34 ounces.Suggested Retail Prices: $39.95-49.95

NGL Associates[tel] 262.474.0454www.sowden.co

PRIMULA FLOWERING TEA GIFT SETThe Primula Flowering Tea Gift Set includes a 40-ounceglass teapot with glass lid and tea infuser with sixflowering green teas and three 25-gram packets ofloose black, white and green teas. The teapot is madeof hand-blown borosilicate glass. The flowering greenteas are made of Grade AA full-length tea leaves

TEA INFUSER WITH RIM AND HANDLEThis decorative tea strainer features a celestial cutoutmotif along its rim. The infuser is specially designed foruse with a teapot or cup. The strainer rests over thetop of the teapot or cup with the decorative handleresting on the rim. It is made of stainless steel and hasa top rim diameter that is 3.75" with a ½" rim to fit onthe top of the teapot or cup.Suggested Retail Price: $8.99

Norpro[tel] 800.722.0202www.norpro.com

PRIMO TEAPOTS WITH INFUSER BASKETFrieling’s Primo teapot unites the revered teaceremony with state-of-the-art infusion technology. Thisall stainless steel teapot and infuser keeps tea hotlonger and thereby preserves the tea’s aroma. Themicro-etched infuser regulates the ideal water flowand lets the delicate flavor carriers through whileholding back even the smallest tea particles. The fold-down handle ensures easy insertion and removal ofthe infuser. All parts are dishwasher safe. Available inthree sizes: 14, 22 and 34 ounces. Suggested Retail Prices: $34.95-44.95

Frieling USA Inc.[tel] 800.827.2582www.frieling.com

CORNISHWARE BLUENo one knows more about how to give a tea partythan the British, and Pillivuyt USA is pleased to offera UK classic line—Cornishware—with its charmingand colorful tea accessories. Cornishware Blue isnow offered in the U.S. and stocked in Pillivuyt USA’swarehouse in Wisconsin. Currently about 40 items arestocked in the U.S. and the company will beexpanding their selection to include high-demanditems such as the Blue Betty teapot, thehoney/marmalade jar, the sugar bowl and the butterdish. Some of these items are available now, but lookfor a full-scale selection of the teapots and some ofthe tea accessories by late spring. Later this year,most of the line will also be introduced in red andwhite—a rich, vibrant red that will dazzle your teaparty guests. Sorry to say, the felt tea party set is notone of the products Pillivuyt will have, but the realthing is so much fun that they expect it to be asmashing success and a great addition to yourholiday collections.


hand-sewn over a delicate flower that blossoms while brewing.Suggested Retail Price: $34.99

Epoca Inc./Primula[tel] 732.390.5600, ext. 12www.primulaproducts.com

JOYCE CHEN COPPER HOBNAIL TETSUBINThe hobnail design of this tetsubin is reminiscent ofthe time-honored tradition of the Japanese tearitual. The 24-ounce pot is crafted of hand-castcast iron that is then enameled on the inside toprevent oxidation and to protect the delicateflavors of the tea. Cast iron also has excellent heatretention. The tetsubin is made in Japan.Suggested Retail Price: $100

Joyce Chen Products/Columbian Home Products[tel] 812.238.5000www.columbianhp.com

ZOJIRUSHI MICOM WATER BOILER & WARMERThe Zojirushi Micom Water Boiler & Warmer is acountertop appliance that boils water and keeps ithot at a set temperature foras long as it’s pluggedin. Four keep-warmtemperature settingsinclude 140°F forhigh-quality greentea, 175°F for othergreen teas, 195°Ffor oolong andwhite teas, and208°F for black andherbal teas. Itsenergy-saving timerfunctionautomatically turnson the boiler at alater time to saveelectricity. In anelegant champagne goldfinish, it is available in a 101-ounce/3-liter or 135-ounce/4-liter capacity.Suggested Retail Prices: $135 or $152

Zojirushi America Corp.[tel] 800.264.6270www.zojirushi.com

tea kettles &accessories

B U Y E R S ’ G U I D E


KRUPS INTUITIVE KETTLE This brushed stainless steel electric kettle features a water level indicatorwith blue lighting, auto shut-off and hasa 1.8-quart capacity.Suggested Retail Price: $69.99

Groupe SEB/Krups[tel] 973.736.0300www.groupeseb.com

MAJES-TEA Available this spring, Liquid Solution fromPacific Cornetta introduces the Majes-tea. Made of BPA-free double-wall plastic,the Majes-tea retains heat longer thansingle-walled products. The stainless steelremovable brewing basket allows looseleaf or bagged tea to begin the infusionprocess. A threaded sip lid decreasesunwanted spills while the flip-closure offersquick access. A unique slatted openingprevents loose leaves from straying. The12-ounce model is dishwasher safe.

Liquid Solution/Pacific Cornetta[tel] 800.753.5647www.liquid-solutions.com

ICE BAG COLLAPSIBLE WINE COOLERThis amazing bag has become a topseller in France and has now arrived inAmerica. The ICE BAG is perfect forparties, picnics and restaurant service.The ICE BAG works amazingly well atchilling bottles, and it folds down foreasy storage. The ICE BAG is very strongand durable with sturdy loop handles.Just add ice and water and insert bottle,and you are ready to go. Available inclear, pink, purple, red and blue. Largersize available for champage.


POPSOME CANDY & NUT DISPENSERS Vacu Vin introduces the PopSomeCandy & Nut Dispensers. These bright,fashionable bowls with the Oxiloc lidsystem keeps treats fresh at partiesand in storage. The special lid makesthe treats accessible while keepingthe food uncontaminated from dirtyhands, germs, dust or pet hair. TheOxiloc system ensures the bowlremains airtight. When the flexible lidis pulled up with a “pop,” an openingappears to dispense treats.Suggested Retail Price: $11.99

Vacu Vin[tel] 704.882.3521[email] [email protected]

h o u s e w a r e s p r e v i e w

http://www.mukitchen.com


Marketing LLC.

Color trends are a hot topic amonghousewares retailers and manufacturers,and Lee Eiseman, Consultant for PantoneInc. and IHA’s color expert, will delve intothe topic during her presentation “ColorDirections: Twists, Turns and Trends” onMarch 7. She will also present an updatedreport on the top Pantone colors during asession at noon March 8 called “What AreDesigners’ Top Color Choices?”

There will also be seminars taking place onthe show floor at noon March 6 and 7.Scheduled to appear are Brandon Wilsonof Distant Horizon speaking on “Gettingand Staying on the Internet Highway” andAlline Anderson of The MilkweedMercantile covering “Keeping YourBottom Line Green.”

Throughout the exhibition center, variousdisplays are set up to inform attendees as they walk the show. Among the displays offered are the ColorWatch byPantone, the Student Design Competitionwinners, New Products Showcases, Green Directions: Going Green and theInventors Corner.

In the cooking theater in the SouthBuilding, Teschke said celebrity chefs willtake the stage, preparing dishes andinstructing attendees on the use of differentcookware and cutlery. Among those

Housewares (cont. from p. 1)All the participants in the Discover Designarea are eligible for the Global InnovatorAward, she noted, and can submit twoproducts for consideration. These GIAcontenders will be featured in the DiscoverDesign Gallery on the exhibition floor.Retailers interested in previewing theDiscover Design exhibitors can see themat youdiscoverdesign.org.

Education is always a feature at the show,said Teschke, and this year’s keynotespeaker is Phil Lempert, the SupermarketGuru, who will host a panel of retailersdiscussing “Cooking Up Bigger ProfitsWith Housewares” at noon March 6.Lempert and the panel will focus on howsupermarkets can promote housewares andbuild sales through dedicated housewaressections. Appearing with Lempert are JohnLaPierre, formerly of Wegmans and BobShelton, formerly of Safeway.

“Top Trends for 2012: Thriving in a NewAge of Anti-Consumerism” is the topic ofTom Mirabile’s talk at 7:30 a.m. March 7.Mirable, Senior Vice President-GlobalTrend & Design at Lifetime Brands, willdiscuss how retailers and suppliers cansurvive and even flourish, as consumersare trying to get by with less. JoiningMirable will be trend forecasters SusanYashinsky of Sphere Trending; MichelleLamb of The Trend Curve; and RobinAlbing from Albing International

scheduled to appear are Casey Thompson,Dale Levitski, Cat Cora, MasahuruMorimoto, Todd English, Tony and CathyMantuano, Devin Alexander, Paula Deen, Michael Symon, Rick Bayless, GuyFieri, Ming Tsai, Theo Kalgeracos andRick Tarantino.

Even before the show officially begins,retailers can sign up for the SpecialtyRetailer University on March 5. The all-day session will include a presentationby HTI Buying Group’s Bob Coviello, said Teschke, as well as cover topics such as social media and visualmerchandising. The cost is $75 in advance,or $150 on site.

Retailers also have access to free consultingsessions during the show, said Teschke.These 45-minute sessions take placethroughout the show and feature presentersfrom the Retailer University as well asothers. Interested retailers can sign uponline at the IHA website.

Teschke said IHA has also improved its online directory this year, offering more features for retailers before, duringand after the show. Housewares Connect365, she said, “is a place where people can go to look for manufacturers andproducts.” Manufacturers have the abilityto enhance their listing and can even send information to potential buyers andmedia, she said.

h o u s e w a r e s p r e v i e wBT-2310 BELLA TAVOLA KITCHEN TORCHThe easy-to-use, butane-poweredKitchen Torch is perfect for professionalchefs or just entertaining at home.Features include automatic ignition,child-resistant safety lever, continuoususe locking mechanism, adjustableflame control lever, ergonomic grip, non-tip wide base and refillable reservoir.The small, lightweight torch delivers a2400°F high output blue flame. It is idealfor crème brulee, roasting peppers,melting cheese, browning meringuesand caramelizing sugars. The KitchenTorch is part of the Bella Tavola line, abutane-powered culinary tool line byWall Lenk Corp. The Bella Tavola line isthe only complete program thatincludes butane. See them at boothS148 at the Housewares Show.Suggested Retail Price: $29.99

Wall Lenk Corp.[tel] 252.527.4186[email] [email protected]

SINK SCOOP UPThis flexible plastic scoop makes iteasy to scoop peels and vegetablewaste out of the sink. The scoop willtake the waste straight from the sinkto a compost bucket or the trash can,without messy hands or paper towels.Avoid clogging up drains and pipeswith vegetable waste and preventsdulling of sink disposal blades. Thescoop is top-rack dishwasher safe.Available in white, lime and light blue.Suggested Retail Price: $2.95

Linden Sweden[tel] 952.465.0052www.lindensweden.com

http://www.prodyne.com


ZOKU QUICK POP MAKERZoku’s Quick Pop maker freezes icepops in minutes right on the countertopwithout electricity. Quickly make stripedpops, yogurt pops or (for the first timeever at home) flavored core pops. Toenjoy Quick Pops at a moment’s notice,simply store the compact base in thefreezer. The kit includes one Quick PopMaker, six reusable pop sticks withspecial drip guards for tidy eating, anda specially designed Super Tool thathelps to quickly release the pops fromtheir molds. The unit can make up tonine pops before refreezing.

Zoku’s Quick Pop Maker has receivedextraordinary global recognition for itsoriginality and innovation through

multiple U.S. and international designawards, as well as global mediaexposure in print, online and throughmajor TV networks around the world.

Zoku takes its intellectual propertyseriously and has a wide variety ofintellectual property rights, including U.S.Patents, U.S. and International UtilityPatent Applications and U.S. DesignPatent Applications, U.S. and InternationalTrademarks, Copyrights and TradeSecrets. Visit Zoku at The InternationalHousewares Show booth 747.Suggested Retail Price: $49.95

Zoku[tel] 201.604.1252www.zokuhome.com

FIRE WIREFire Wire® is a company thatunderstands retailers and the retailenvironment. Its innovative product, a stainless steel flexible grilling skewer,generates an enthusiastic fan basewith consumers. The features of theproduct solve problems, and makegrilling with skewers easier than everbefore. The flexible stainless steeldesign allows grillers to marinate the food in a zip-close bag after it has been loaded on the skewer. By putting the tip outside the grill, notools are required to turn or removethe skewers. Fire Wire is dishwashersafe and comes with a lifetimeguarantee. To tell the story at retail,Fire Wire offers a merchandising kit

that includes an actual grill with a fullcolor advertisement wrap, red ropelights (coals!), a Fire Wire skewerloaded with fake food, and a 7" videoscreen that loops the Fire Wire salesvideo. The Fire Wire Marinating Kit is anall natural blend of herbs and spicesand is a great companion to theskewers. Take advantage of thismerchandising package and Fire Wirewill give you enough free skewers tooffset your cost. For more about FireWire, or to preview the Fire Wire video,visit www.firewiregrilling.com or [email protected].

Fire Wire[tel] 620.229.9800www.firewiregrilling.com


CUCINA PRO PIZZA STONECucinaPro is excited to announce itsnew booth location for the upcomingInternational Home and HousewaresShow. The booth will be front andcenter in the cook and bakewareexhibits at S3102.

Stop by and see the new line ofcooking tools including a pastadrying rack, marble rolling pin, marblecheese cutter, heat diffuser plate,pizza peel and two pizza stones. Bothof the pizza stones are refractoryceramic, FDA approved and ¾" thick. A 16" x 14" square and a 16.5"round are available. The stones canalso be left in the oven to help theoven heat circulate more efficientlyon a day-to-day basis.Suggested Retail Price: $44.99

Cucina Pro[tel] 216.351.3002www.cucinapro.com

FROST-EAZEThe baking and cupcake trend is at an all-time high, and with both retailersand consumers looking for convenientand creative accessories, EvriholderProducts’ new Frost-Eaze™ promises tobe as popular as it is cute and functional.Frost-Eaze is an assorted frostingdecorator set that includes an easy-to-squeeze plastic bottle, beautifulturquoise cap and various assortedstainless steel frosting tips including star,round, ribbon, basket weave and leaftips. The collapsible body makessqueezing the frosting from the bottlequick, easy and effective. Now even themost novice baker can frost like a prowithout the mess and fuss that comeswith using traditional piping bags andthe cumbersome clean-up that usuallyfollows. Spark creativity in the kitchenby decorating a favorite cupcake withany design, in any colors, and at anytime—and get the kids involved too.Suggested Retail Prices: $2.99-4.99


http://www.bartule.com


HUROM ORIGINAL SLOW JUICERChange the way you get your vitaminswith this one-of-a-kind new andimproved juice extractor. You can enjoymore antioxidants, better flavor, andfreshness without the commonproblems of heating, foaming orseparation. You can even make yourown homemade soy milk, wheatgrassjuice, almond milk or tofu. The originalpatented Hurom Slow Juicer standsapart from conventional juice extractorswith its many unique features. It ispractically silent with its quiet, slow-rotating induction motor. It has all ofthe performance of a masticating,single-auger juicer, but with much lessspace required and lighter in weightthan typical centrifuge-style juicers. Italso only uses 150 watts, making it themost energy-efficient juice extractor onthe market. The screw-like auger andthe juice strainer are both now madefrom the ultra-strong GE Ultem materialand are BPA-free. Furthermore, theHurom’s self-cleaning feature allows forcontinuous juicing and hassle-free care.See the difference by watching the

demo video at www.slowjuicer.com.The motor comes with a 10-yearwarranty. Made in Korea. Suggested Retail Price: $359

Roland Products[tel] 800.321.2226www.slowjuicer.com

RABBIT BAMBOO WINE RACK Beautiful, durable and affordable, thishandsome new bamboo wine rack fromMetrokane holds eight wine bottles andfolds flat for saving space on the retailfloor. Made of furniture-quality bamboowith polished chrome hinges, this is the firstwine rack with the famous Rabbit brand.

Metrokane[tel] 212.759.6262www.metrokane.com

FULL CIRCLE CLEANING PRODUCTSWe all strive to be environmentallyresponsible, but we also wantproducts that work well, especiallywhen it comes to cleaning products.Full Circle’s line of sustainablecleaning tools are high quality,durable, affordable, and look great in your kitchen and bathroom.They’ve really made it easy to do yourpart in being green. Their newest

right into the grout. The ergonomichandle is perfect for applying pressure and the product stands up to air dry. Made from renewablebamboo and recycled plastic, both products are stylish andenvironmentally friendly.

Full Circle[tel] 866.259.0727[email] [email protected] www.fullcirclehome.com

products feature a handy PotatoBrush with built-in eye remover and a super tough Grout & Scrub Brush.The Potato Brush with Eye Removerfits perfectly in the palm and theunique corer tool is specially designed to remove potato eyes witha simple twist. The Grout & Scrub Brush is the perfect two-in-onesolution. The wide bristles on thebottom scrub your tiles, while thetough, narrow bristles on top get

ZAK MELLOW BATTER BOWLSZak Designs introduces Mellow BatterBowls. The lightweight material, non-skid bottom and functional designmake these bowls some of the mostsought after batter bowls on themarket. Mellow Bowls were designedto be durable and functional mixingbowls that nest comfortably withineach other for easy storage whenthey aren’t being used. The Mellowmixing bowls are made with alightweight material that makes themeasy to handle when mixing, and thenon-skid ring on the bowls helps makesure that they stay on the counterwhen the mixing gets tough. But theirversatility doesn’t end when themixing’s done. Because they are

dishwasher-, refrigerator-, freezer-, andmicrowave-safe, and come completewith snap-tight lids, these bowls areideal for storing leftovers, softeningbutter or other ingredients, and evenwarming up soup at work. The bowlscome in four sizes—3 quart, 2 quart, 1quart, and half-quart—and areavailable in a set of eight, with one ofeach size and accompanying lids, aswell as two-packs with either a 1-quart and half-quart bowl or two half-quart bowls. The sets are available intwo different color patterns: blue andwhite or orchid and kiwi.

Zak Designs[tel] 509.244.0555 www.zak.com


FOODDAMUse this fooddam from fusionbrands tokeep food separated during cooking.The hinges snap together to fit from an8" to a 14" pan. The fooddam is madeof flexible high heat silicone. It can angleto fit the desired cooking area, and thetapered design flexes to fit a pan’sedge. Dishwasher safe.Suggested Retail Price: $9.99

fusionbrandswww.fusionbrands.com

http://www.fullcirclehome.com



BARTULEThe BarTule® is the ultimate baraccessory. It snaps together ina compact, elegant design that keepseverything you need organized, cleanand in one place. This all-in-one bar toolis indestructible, dishwasher safe andmade from 100 percent recyclablematerials. The BarTule is constructed ofhigh density polycarbonate, stainlesssteel and is made to last. The BarTuleincludes an ice bucket and chiller, saltrimmer, wine/champagne coaster,bottle opener, 4-ounce jigger and citrusjuicer with pulp-removing handle andspout. Available in blue, clear, green,red, yellow and smoke. BarTule willlaunch four new products at the 2011IHA Show, booth 3648.Suggested Retail Price: $49.95

BarTule[tel] 888.755.8853www.bartule.com

MAX BURTON DELUXE INDUCTION COOKTOPThe Max Burton® Deluxe InductionCooktop #6200 is a high-powered 1800Wmodel within a sleek stainless steeltabletop design. It features 10 powersettings from 500W to 1800W or 10temperature settings from 140°-450°. Withthe 180-minute timer, cooking time can becontrolled automatically. The InductionInterface Disk #6010 is an accessory thatallows users to use cookware that is notinduction rated. The disk is an 8" diameterstainless steel accessory that is placedbetween the induction cooktop and thecookware to achieve the requiredinterface. The combination of these twoitems allows formerly inappropriate

cookware such as copper, glass andaluminum to be used with the InductionCooktop. All items are available separatelyor as Induction Set #6050.Suggested Retail Prices: $119.90 forcooktop; $49 for interface disk; $165 forinduction set

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

pull the cutting board open, chop andplace cut items into the removable foodtrays, eliminating the need for otherdishes during food prep. Small food trays and strainer can be removed toexpose the larger serving platter tray.The cutting board slides open at oppo-site ends to expose a full-size bottomtray to hold food scraps. Trays and drawers are microwave and dishwashersafe. Available in red, orange, lime, blackand white. Chop-A-Lot will be featuredat the Inventors Corner at the Interna-tional Home and Housewares Show,South Building booth S4566.Suggested Retail Price: $29.95

VTT Products[tel] 760.636.5858www.vttproducts.com

ULTIMATE MAGNETIC APRON AND TOWEL SETFinally an apron and towel set that reallystick together. Built-in powerful magnetslocated at the apron hip keep the towelalways handy. Made of top-quality, 100percent cotton imported from India,the apron features a chef’s pocket forextra storage. The towel is a super-softabsorbent jacquard cotton. Interactivepackaging allows the customer to testthe magnetic action in-store.

MÜKitchen[tel] 866.544.2224www.mukitchen.com

MARCATO COOKIE PRESSThis high-qualityanodized aluminumcookie press byMarcato is a “musthave” in the kitchen. Itcomes with 20 disks forvarious shapedcookies and twosettings for thickness.You can use any of yourfavorite cookie recipes oruse the one that comes with the press.It is easy to use and easy to clean. Thecookie guns also come in gold, blue,black, red and silver. Suggested Retail Price: $39.99

SCI Scandicrafts[tel] 800.966.5489www.scandicrafts.com

NOGENT OF FRANCE PROFILE KNIVESThis unique new design was created bySebastian Conran, a respecteddesigner of healthcare and consumerluxury goods throughout Europe. Thedesign blends the warmth of naturalwalnut with the crisp white ofpolyamide, making the knivesappealing to the touch and creating asofter, less aggressive look thantraditional high-end knives. Theergonomic design of the handlesensures a firm grip for ease of handlingand greater control of the knife. Theknives employ a technology unique tothe Nogent brand—the patentedAffidenté serration. The blades are firstedged by machine, then the bevel isground by hand on a whetstone. A finalstep creates the micro-serration (100teeth per inch of blade) that stays sharpfor the lifetime of the knife and allowsfor smooth, clean and effortless slicingof everything from tomatoes to steaks.The range of items in the Profile lineconsists of paring, utility, slicing, chef’s,Santoku, bread and steak knives. All arepackaged in striking boxes and a free-standing display case is available tocreate an eye-catching display in thestores. Visit McCormick South boothS4333-S4334.



CHOP-A-LOTChop-A-Lot, an all-in-one cutting board,is an indispensable kitchen tool thatkeeps multiple trays at your fingertips, al-lowing you to keep your food separatedand organized during the prep process.The Chop-A-Lot set includes two largeserving trays, three individual food trays,a strainer and a cutting board. Users



Aervoe Industries Inc. ....................................... 6

The Alison Group .............................................. 6

BarTule LLC ...................................................... 19

CucinaPro .......................................................... 21

Evriholder Products Inc ..................................... 9

Fissler USA......................................................... 24

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

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

IHA Media Marketing....................................... 5

Linden Sweden .................................................... 4

LSArts Inc. ......................................................... 22

Mastrad Inc. ......................................................... 2

Metrokane ............................................................ 9

MÜKitchen ....................................................... 17

Parasia International LTD .............................. 12

Parrish’s Cake Dec. ........................................... 23

Picnic Time .......................................................... 8

Prodyne............................................................... 18

SCI Scandicrafts ............................................... 10

Todco LLC/Hannon Group ............................ 4

Tribest ................................................................. 14

VTT Products ..................................................... 9

Zoku LLC............................................................. 7

ADVERTISER INDEX

{ n e w s i n b r i e f }Hearthware Home Products Inc., Gurnee,Ill., promoted John Stewart to Vice Presidentof Sales and Marketing. His responsibilitiesinclude management of the sales force,product development, packaging andpromotion for the company’s growing line ofproducts, including the original NuWave ProInfrared Oven and the new NuWave MiniInfrared Oven. Stewart, who originally joinedHearthware Home Products in 2008,previously served as Vice President ofConsumer Sales. Stewart has extensiveexperience in promotion and field salesmanagement. Before joining HearthwareHome Products, he served as Director ofSales for Salton Inc. and Vice President ofNational Accounts of ERO Industries/PrissPrints. Stewart will report to Gene H. Kim,Vice President.

MMPI, the trade show and propertymanagement firm that manages 7 W NewYork in New York City and The MerchandiseMart in Chicago, named Nancy Michael asSenior Marketing and Strategy Director forthe Gift and Home Décor Industry. In hernew role, Michael will be based in Chicagoworking directly with Trisha Schultz,Marketing Director and the entire ChicagoMarket team, as well as coordinating andleveraging marketing in Los Angeles,Chicago and New York. She will be workingwith management teams for the CaliforniaGift Show, The Chicago Market and 7 Win the development, coordination and

implementation of all marketing efforts,which include advertising, special events,public relations, websites, direct mailprograms, sponsorships, mailing lists, buyerrelationships, directories and trade showcross-marketing for the industry. Beforejoining MMPI, Michael served as theDirector of Marketing for tag ltd., for the lastdecade. In that role, Michael worked on everymajor tag initiative from launching newproduct categories to growing the tag brand.In addition, MMPI announced thatKatherine Skelton was named the Directorof Leasing for L.A. Mart Gift. In her newposition, Skelton will play an integral role inall of the leasing and sales activity for L.A.Mart Gift. Skelton joins MMPI with 14years of experience in specialty leasing at avariety of shopping centers. MMPI managesThe Merchandise Mart, 350 W. Mart Centerand 33 North Dearborn in Chicago; MarketSquare, the Suites at Market Square,Hamilton Market, Plaza Suites, FurniturePlaza and the National Furniture Mart inHigh Point, N.C.; the Architects &Designers Building and 7 W New York inNew York; the L.A. Mart in Los Angeles;and the Washington Design Center andWashington Office Center in Washington.

The International Council of ShoppingCenters in New York announced that JorgeLizan has been promoted to Vice Presidentof Business Development. Lizan willcontinue to manage business activities andprograms in Latin America, as well as other

new business initiatives for ICSC globally.Lizan has more than 15 years experience inthe real estate industry and before joiningICSC he held the position of developmentmanager of the Caribbean & Latin Americaregion for Yum! Brands, the parent companyof KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. ICSC isthe global trade association of the shoppingcenter industry.

Michael Jeansson has joined NGLAssociates, Sleepy Hollow, N.Y., as Partnerand Vice President of Sales. Jeansson hadbeen President of Sagaform USA since 2005and previously worked for Orrefors KostaBoda in various management positions inthe United States and Sweden. At NGL,Jeansson will be responsible for the launchof three new clients: Sowden Soft Brew, acoffee brewing system; Cult Design,contemporary ceramic giftware; and SereneHouse, personal air care products. NGLcurrently represents Design HouseStockholm USA, a Scandinavian lifestylebrand; ASA Selection USA, porcelain andceramic tabletop products; and Stelton USA,Danish modern giftware. NGL Associatescoordinates all sales administration andlogistic service in cooperation with LemanUSA in Sturtevant, Wis. Additionally,Debbie Truckey, Operations Manager, hasalso become a partner in the firm, joiningJeansson and Founder and President NilsGoran Lindblad.

Hannon Group Ltd., Burlington, Wis., has

launched a separate website (www.sachi-bags.com) for its popular line of morethan 40 Sachi Fashion Insulated Lunch Bagsand two- or three-bottle capacity Sachi winetotes. The site divides the lunch bags intonine different styles and the wine totes intothree colors and styles. Each item is describedand is available for immediate retail orderthrough the site. The site’s photo galleryshows the silver interior of the bags in detailas well as the variety of bags available.Background information and history ofHannon Group is also given.

Bodum, a leader in home product design,has once again achieved distinction bywinning the 2011 iF Product Design Award.This year, out of nearly 3,000 entries, 21individual Bodum products, including itemsfrom the 2010 collection as well as some tobe unveiled in 2011, were honored for thisinternationally renowned seal of excellenceand quality, reasserting the company’sposition on the cutting edge of design. Thisyear, the winning products include kitchenelectrics from the e-bodum collection,cutlery from the Bistro Ceramic Blade seriesas well as drinkware and kitchen storageaccessories. Thomas Perez, President ofBodum USA, said in prepared remarks: “Weare thrilled to be recognized by the designcommunity in such a big way. As a company,we focus on innovating and bringingsomething new to the table. By thinkingoutside the box, we are able to bring excitinggood design directly to our customers.”

http://www.lsarts.com


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

FEBRUARY 20115-8 The Seattle Gift Show®

Washington State Convention & Trade CenterSeattle, WA, 678.285.3976

www.seattlegift.com

6-10 Spring Fair BirminghamNational Exhibition Centre

Birmingham, England, +44 (0) 8445 888 071www.springfair.com

11-15 AmbienteFrankfurt Fair & Exhibition Center

Frankfurt, Germany +49 69 75 75 0www.messefrankfurt.com

21-24 Alberta Gift ShowNorthlands Agricom

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

MARCH 20116-8 International Home & Housewares Show

McCormick PlaceChicago, IL, 847.292.4200

www.housewares.org

6-9 Montreal Gift ShowPlace Bonaventure

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

19-21 Portland Gift & Accessories ShowOregon Convention Center,Portland, OR, 800.346.1212

www.portlandgift.com

In other news, AmericasMart AtlantaBuilding 1 celebrated its 50th anniversary atlast month's Atlanta International Gift &Home Furnishings Market. The marketwelcomed 28 new exhibitors and introduced22 expanded showrooms.

And the Canadian Gift & TablewareAssociation will host Western Canada'slargest giftware show, with more than 13,000retailers in attendance, in Edmonton, Alberta,Feb. 20 to 23. A separate gift show will takeplace in Montreal, March 6-9.

Just as winter turns to spring, the trade showworld is beginning to awaken from a frostyslumber, upping the heat with the help ofsome strong coffee-based shows like CoffeeFest Chicago and the National CoffeeAssociation Centennial Convention. Inaddition to learning techniques for improvingtheir coffee bars, kitchenware retailers can findmany coffee-related products at these shows.

The National Coffee Association iscelebrating its 100th anniversary, and haveannounced that the Colombian CoffeeFederation, The J.M. Smucker Co. andStarbucks Coffee will be the official hosts ofthe NCA Centennial Convention March 16to 19 in New Orleans.

“For 100 years, the National CoffeeAssociation has served member needs as itchampions the well-being of the U.S. coffeeindustry,” said NCA President & CEORobert F. Nelson in a prepared statement.“NCA is honored to be recognized bymembers in this way as we celebrate thismilestone with a dedicated CentennialConvention in 2011.”

The three host companies are invitingmembers of the global coffee community toa multifaceted experience that will celebrate,educate, entertain and drive industry business.Special features and events will make the2011 Centennial Convention a uniqueexperience for all in the coffee business fromtree to cup.

To honor the occasion of its 100 years ofservice to the U.S. coffee industry, theNational Coffee Association will hold a specialedition of its annual meeting—the NCACentennial Convention—in New Orleans.This unique convention experience isanticipated to attract coffee professionals fromacross the globe to learn, engage, share andbuild relationships at the Roosevelt Hotel.

One of the largest convocations of coffeeprofessionals from all sectors of the industry,NCA’s Centennial Convention will featuretwo days of professional developmentopportunities, along with special meetingsand events steeped in the history of theoccasion and the place.

The Chicago Coffee Fest, Feb. 18 to 20 atNavy Pier, will feature a variety ofcompetitions and workshops. The SingleBrewing and Extraction Workshop, gearedtoward the intermediate specialty coffeeretailer, explores the complicated world ofextraction and a variety of single-cup brewmethodologies. More information can befound at www.coffeefest.com.

by Kelly Lewis

2011 TRADE SHOW C A L E N D A R

KNHR Corrections

The SRP of the fusionbrands crackpotin the Jan. 2011 issue is $11.99.

http://www.parrishsmagicline.com

http://www.fisslerusa.com/

kitchenware news v17i02

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