Kitchenware News • March 2024

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Vol. 30 • Issue 2 March 2024 • $7.00

Tea, Anyone?

Teaware, everyone!

BY A.J. FLICK

Tea was historically prized as an herbal medicine in Asia, and then as a favored leisure beverage treat in the West – so much so that Chinese tea leaves were reportedly stolen by the British and grown in India to satisfy thirsty consumers. The history of teaware has evolved along with the tea itself.

Cont. on page 18

Advertiser Index . . . . . . . . . . .22

Luxurious Lighting

Get Smokin’

Spring Renewal

SEE PAGE 4

SEE PAGE 7

SEE PAGE 8

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KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW • MARCH 2024 • www.kitchenwarenews.com

from the

PUBLISHER

editor Growing up, as soon as I was trusted to not break any dishes, I was in charge of setting the table for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas. I enjoyed it, particularly on Christmas Day because we used my parents’ first anniversary gift to each other: A 1950s set of Johnson Brothers multicolor transferware in the popular pattern The Friendly Village. Each time I set them out, I studied the different patterns of old-timey scenes for the dishware, examining them as if I’d never seen them before. How many times have I pictured myself walking down the village streets or sitting inside one of the buildings? Countless. The dinner plates showed the red steepled “School House.” The finger bowls depicted a “Stonewall” surrounding a country cottage. And I would dutifully set aside two tea cups and saucers – they showed “The Ice House” surrounded by snow – for my parents’ after-dinner coffee.

When I was a teenager, my mom told me that “The Friendly Village” set would be my family heirloom. I was thrilled! Then, after all of us kids had moved out of the house, my mom declared that she and my dad were going to use some of the dishes throughout the year, to enjoy them. I was shocked! “Don’t worry,” she assured me. “We won’t break any.”

In the meantime, I started looking for Johnson Brothers transferware sets when I browsed antique and thrift stores, picking up a few pieces of different patterns here and there. I could spot a Johnson Brother dish – they had many, many patterns – from 50 feet. I was with my sister in an antique store when I saw a set that looked nothing like The Friendly Village, but I was certain it was one of theirs. Sure enough, it was the Pomona pattern, a multicolored cornucopia surrounded by flowers. When I expressed interest in buying it, the clerk explained that it was a full set, but there was something wrong with one of the tea cups. She unzipped the dish protector that displayed eight tea cups and eight saucers, pointing to one. Unlike the other cups, which looked like they’d never been used, one cup had cracks in the porcelain (what we collectors call “crazing”) and was stained.

“The woman who had this set loved to drink tea and she only drank from this cup, so as to not damage any others with stains,” the clerk said apologetically, downcast. Apparently, other people passed on the set because of that cup. But I loved the backstory! It made me want the set even more. I’ve since learned how to remove the stains, but I’ve kept the tea cup as it is, in honor of the woman

Kimberly Oser

PRESIDENT Tara Neal

who loved the set first.

Eventually, in addition to my parents’ “Friendly Village,” I bought two more full sets (and I finally found a teapot!). Each set came with cups and saucers. I never used the cups and saucers, though. I like tea, but I had a supply of contemporary mugs I used. Around the time my nephew announced his engagement a couple of years ago, I had just acquired a full set of brown transferware made by the Johnson Brothers’ grandfather, Alfred Meakin. I decided to start using the Meakin set as my everyday dishware instead of the Johnson Brothers’ Staffordshire Bouquet, which is a newer set (dishwasher safe) with blue, red and yellow flowers. I wasn’t sure my nephew, Andrew, and his fiancée, Marriah, would want the set, since millennials’ avoidance of old-timey things has depressed the antique/vintage dishware market. But I showed them the pattern and they were both excited. When I handed the dishes to them, Marriah was happy to see each piece – until she saw the tea cups.

“Here it comes,” I said to myself, bracing myself for her disappointment. But that didn’t happen. Marriah was thrilled to see the tea cups. She’d always wanted to have a set of tea cups. Andy reinforced later how happy she was with them.

This is my way of saying that I enjoyed putting together our cover story on the re-emergence of teaware on the market. It did surprise me to learn how it was gaining in popularity, since having tea seemed like an old-fashioned thing that younger generations would eschew. OK, maybe some of them don’t want the antique sets, but they have driven the contemporary teaware and tea markets up. Manufacturers are rising to the challenge, some with patterns that look like they’d be home in any antique store – if not for the more contemporary design – and appliances that produce the perfect temperature for each kind of tea. A few years ago, I threw a tea party for younger colleagues, just to do something different to brainstorm ideas. (It was an excuse to break out my Staffordshire Bouquet tea cups.) “My grandmother had a set like this!” one colleague said. Ouch. At least she was smiling, recalling the memory.

Until next time, take care, stay safe and enjoy some tea. KN — AJ Flick Senior Editor aj_f@oser.com

VICE PRESIDENT Abeer Abiaad

PRESIDENT OF SALES Anthony Socci anthony_s@oser.com

PRODUCTION MANAGER/ART DIRECTOR Yasmine Brown

SENIOR EDITOR AJ Flick aj_f@oser.com

EDITOR JoEllen Lowry

CUSTOMER SERVICE customerservice@oser.com

CIRCULATION MANAGER Jamie Green jamie_g@oser.com

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT Heather Albrecht heather_a@oser.com

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FOUNDER Lee M. Oser Periodicals postage paid at Tucson, AZ and additional mailing office. Kitchenware News & Housewares Review (USPS012-625) is published 7 times per year (Jan., March, May, July, Sept., Nov. and Dec.) by Oser Communications Group, 1877 N. Kolb Road, Tucson, AZ, 85715 520.721.1300.

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KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW • MARCH 2024 • www.kitchenwarenews.com

Luxurious lighting Breegan Jane debuts Savoy House collection Breegan Jane debuted her 35-piece lighting collection with Savoy House at the Lightovation: Dallas International Lighting Show in January. The collection combines Jane’s signature modern approachable luxury style with Savoy House’s passion for great design, quality engineering and high production standards.

For Jane, design comes from the urge to realize the artistry that lives in her mind.

Her mix of purpose and imagination creates solutions to enhance the beauty and the functionality of a home. She approaches each project with the goal to infuse it with modern, approachable luxury, something that absolutely goes hand in hand with what she often refers to as the jewels of a space: lighting.

Drawing inspiration from her many international travels to locations such as Ibiza, Spain, Jane has crafted and curated a collection unlike any other to enhance homes worldwide.

“Using the right lighting in a design project is crucial to creating mood and inspiration,” she said. “It’s the conductor of the visual symphony directing the heights and depths, moving the energy around the space.

“I’m so excited about my collaboration with Savoy House because we have created a magnificent array of lighting

fixtures that will bring panache and refinement while evoking the perfect visual, emotional and sensory impressions for any moment or occasion.”

As a Los Angeles-based interior designer, author, philanthropist and mom to two boys, Jane is a dynamic voice in the industry. From hosting HGTV’s “Dream Home” to working on “Property Brothers,” Breegan continues to showcase her vast expertise building and designing homes.

Her design capabilities have led her to appear on several other networks, as well, including NBC, Peacock, Food Network and more.

As a leader in industry conversations, Breegan participates regularly in speaker series events and champions the motherhood community as she shares her insight via her weekly blog. Further expanding her reach and narrative, she advocates for women and children in Africa as a partner with an international non-profit organization known as the Mekuno Project.

For more than 55 years, family-owned Savoy House has been bringing beautiful lighting solutions to premium showrooms and retailers across the country. Its commitment to quality, service and style makes it the go-to choice for interior designers, builders and lighting enthusiasts alike.

Unimpressed with the selection of lighting on the market at the time, father and son homebuilders Robert and Fred Lee opened their own lighting showroom in Atlanta in 1965. Working out of an old grocery store, they began importing fixtures and assembling them in-house, which blossomed into an assembly plant, a warehouse, a catalog and a national network of sales representatives. KN

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KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW • MARCH 2024 • www.kitchenwarenews.com

sleepy

Serta launches 7 collections

Serta Simmons Bedding, LLC, is launching seven new collections across its Serta and Beautyrest product platforms this year. The collections are designed to better position each brand with compelling product lineups with “step-up” value propositions and feature sets that are easy for consumers to understand and give our retailers the product assortment to drive step-up selling.

The new products from Serta and Beautyrest were showcased to retailers at the Winter Las Vegas Market.

Retailers can begin ordering the products this spring.

“As we assessed our product portfolio and spoke with many key retail partners, it became clear that we have a unique opportunity to innovate and extend our leading brand platforms to better meet the needs of our valued retailers and consumers,” said Mark Genender, interim CEO of Serta Simmons Bedding. “Our new product lineups from Serta and Beautyrest have stunning aesthetics and are better differentiated than ever, with easy to navigate features, benefits and pricing, all designed to make it simple for retailers to showcase and sell our powerful brands.”

In developing the new Serta and Beautyrest collections, the Serta Simmons Bedding team was careful to protect and highlight the benefits of each brand, while creating “product platforms” that let each brand stand on their own with unique selling stories.

Every mattress in the new Serta lineup will feature zoned comfort to support the sleeper’s body the way it was meant to be supported. The lineup consists of six mattress collections that each have unique value propositions and, within each, offer ever-increasing features and benefits that allow the customer to zone in on their perfect comfort at any price point. The collections include:

• Serta Classic: Affordable, entry level pricing that is classically comfortable with features such as breathable fabric, gel memory foam and three zones of innersprings • Serta Perfect Sleeper: Perfectly zoned comfort with CoolFeel fabric, Cool Twist memory foam, and three ZoneActive support designs • Serta Perfect Sleeper Hybrid: Perfectly conforming with CoolFeel fabric, PerfectConform Memory Foam, and a five ZoneActive hybrid design • Serta Perfect Sleeper Pro Hybrid: Perfectly responsive with CoolFeel Pro System, natural True Response Latex Foam, and a premium hybrid five ZoneActive hybrid design consisting of coils and zoned latex • Serta iComfort: Conforming comfort with CoolFeel fabric, PerfectConform memory foam and an all-foam five ZoneResponse design • Serta iComfortPro: Responsive comfort with CoolFeel Pro System, natural True Response Latex Foam, and premium all-foam five ZoneResponse design In addition, Serta is adding an all-new Serta Motion Renew Adjustable Base to its lineup of adjustable bases, which features key step-up benefits including dual massage, sound machine, underbed lighting, anti-snore and memory presets.

Beautyrest is focused on providing a sleep environment created with individualized support and motion isolation to deliver individualized sleep, designed for you.

Beautyrest Black is the flagship line of Beautyrest and a leading brand in the luxury innerspring category. First introduced in 2006, the latest evolution of the product lineup is being brought to the market this year with four levels,

branded Beautyrest Black Series One through Four.

All series feature the brand’s unique triple-stranded Pocketed Coil technology for individualized support and motion separation, micro-diamond memory foam for temperature management, highdensity foams, luxurious fashion-inspired aesthetics, quilted borders and eight handles.

Each level within the Beautyrest Black portfolio provides the customer with step ups in features without losing any of the innovations of the previous series, including the following highlights: • Beautyrest Black Series One: Triple-stranded Pocketed Coil technology combined with Beautyrest gel memory foam and high-density memory foams, and Sleep Climate technology • Beautyrest Black Series Two: Additional layer of quilted memory foam and Micro Diamond memory foam • Beautyrest Black Series Three: Adds Self Response latex • Beautyrest Black Series Four: Upgrades to increased nano coil density In addition, the Beauty Sleep brand will be re-introduced this year and was unveiled at Las Vegas Market. Positioned separate from, but adjacent to Beautyrest, Beauty Sleep will deliver quality, affordable products with consistent support and long-lasting comfort. Each of the eight models feature original Pocketed Coil technology, available in both quilted and hybrid constructions. KN

get smokin’

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Introducing the GE Profile Smart Indoor Smoker

GE Profile has introduced the GE Profile Smart Indoor Smoker with Active Smoke Filtration. The smoker provides a revolutionary way to experience a time-honored cooking method – smoking food, without the hobbyist hassle. With innovative technology and countertop convenience, smoked food no longer requires a huge time commitment, a backyard and nice weather.

As the first and only indoor smoker, Active Smoke Filtration technology uses heat and a highly engineered catalyst system to turn real-wood smoke into warm air packed with flavor. The Smart Indoor Smoker is designed to efficiently deliver delicious, wood-smoked seasoning to a variety of foods.

Designed for optimal smoke with custom controls and maximum flavor, this unique airflow system, along with tight gaskets and seals keeps the smoke in the appliance, not in the kitchen.

Creating flexibility for users from novice to pro, smoke intensity and temperature can be separately dialed in to achieve perfect flavor, thanks to a separate heat source for burning pellets and cooking foods. Whether a hint of smoke or full smoke flavor is preferred, the Smart Indoor Smoker gives cooks the ability to customize.

Five adjustable smoke settings let users control the smoke levels until they find their ideal flavor. This level of customization allows cooks to explore barbecue favorites or new recipes with ease and achieve consistent results.

The six preset food settings create amazing results for brisket, pork ribs, pork butt, chicken wings, chicken breast and salmon using a heat source at the bottom of the appliance. Users can also customize their own food and smoke settings for other foods of choice from side dishes to dessert.

"We believe that this product will completely change the game when it comes to smoked food,” said André Zdanow, executive director of small appliances. “Not only are we simplifying the smoking process, but we are opening it up as a cooking method to a whole new audience who may not have had the time or outdoor space to try smoking food before.

“From weeknight dinners to cocktail garnishes and home tailgating to peach cobbler, consumers can explore all the

possibilities of having an electric smoker that is ready to go at any time.”

The Smart Indoor Smoker delivers the flavors consumers demand from a traditional smoker and it looks sleek in any kitchen. Additional features that make dinner prep and clean up a breeze include:

• Smoke and Hold ensures your favorite smoked foods are ready when you are with a convenient Auto Warm setting that holds foods at food safe temperatures for up to 24 hours. Gone are the days of overcooked meals or cold dinners if guests arrive late.

• GE Profile Connect+ lets users set their desired smoke levels and monitor the cooking progress from anywhere via the SmartHQ app, ensuring consistent and efficient results.

Consumers can work in their home office or pick up the kids from school while checking the status of their food or

controlling the settings with a few taps. Owners will also receive over-the-air feature updates like guided recipes as they are released for endless recipe tips and inspiration.

• Its small footprint and large capacity can fit three racks of baby back ribs, a brisket, a whole chicken, up to 40 chicken wings or a 14-pound pork butt.

• The same results consumers demand from a traditional smoker but with a fraction of the wood pellets, making it more cost effective and efficient. Plus, a pellet capture system extinguishes used pellets and collects them in a water tank for easy disposal.

• Dishwasher safe, removable racks and drip trays for easy clean up.

The Smart Indoor Smoker comes with a cookbook crafted by chef Dallas McGarity, executive chef and owner of The Fat Lamb, winner of the Food Network’s cooking challenge show “Chopped” and GE Profile chef ambassador.

It also includes a meat probe and a bag of Kona pellets to get users started. Users can receive up to 20 percent off when they reorder pellets or schedule a pellet subscription through Kona. If users already have their favorite pellets, the Smart Indoor Smoker is designed to be used with any brand intended for use with pellet grills or smokers.

“Smoking food is an art form that has been practiced for centuries,” McGarity said.

“Whether you are a novice or an expert smoker, the GE Profile Smart Indoor Smoker will take your smoking skills to the next level, all from the comfort of your kitchen counter, “I find that smoking food can be a social experience, and this indoor smoker now gives me the flexibility to smoke even small meals inside with my family and friends. From traditional meats to smoked brussels sprouts and desserts like s’mores, the meals you can create are endless.”

The Smart Indoor Smoker was invented at FirstBuild, the co-creation, maker space and microfactory owned by GE Appliances. These game-changing features led consumers to invest in this innovation (formerly known as Arden) through an Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign that was backed by 1,156 people and $835,774 in funding.

Based on its success, it has now graduated to the GE Profile brand and will be available at retailers nationwide for a suggested retail price of $999. KN

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KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW • MARCH 2024 • www.kitchenwarenews.com

new products offer chances for

BY A.J. FLICK

SPRING renewal

Spring inspires all of us to refresh ourselves and our homes. March’s new products do just that.

Slatkin + Co., the global expert in home fragrance, has launched Club92, a sensory experience for the home created exclusively for Dollar General.

“When creating Club92, I wanted to provide a new, high quality home fragrance experience to the Dollar General consumer,” said Harry Slatkin, founder and CEO of Slatkin + Co. “I spent years dedicated to perfecting the Club92 brand.

“From using only the finest essential oils, to constructing each fragrance, to designing a custom glass candle vessel, to tirelessly burn-testing the final product until it met my standards, our efforts have resulted in a product line of the utmost quality at Dollar General’s everyday low prices.”

This initial Club92 collection launch includes the following assortment of core fragrances: • Very Vanilla Cupcake: Delectable and sweet, with notes of whipped buttercream and baked yellow cake for a delightful take on vanilla.

• Crisp Apple: This crisp, fruity fragrance is composed of tart apple, succulent peach and dewy greens.

• Fresh Cotton Skies: Cotton flower is layered with cozy cashmere and white woods for a fresh everyday scent.

• Mango Key Lime: With this expertly designed fragrance, ripe mango, Florida key lime and pink pineapple combine to transport you to an island vacation.

• Jasmine Blossom: Fill your home with

a gorgeous bouquet of Jasmine, tropical plumeria and sandalwood.

• Eucalyptus Mint: An invigorating combination of garden mint muddled with eucalyptus and cactus water.

Now available at DG’s approximately 20,000 locations in 48 states, the Club92 home fragrance product line includes scented candles, wax melts and reed diffusers with retail prices ranging from $3 to $8.

In partnership with KitchenAid, Meyer Corporation, U.S., introduces KitchenAid

Nitro Carbon Steel Cookware. Combining game-changing anti-rust technology with exceptional 3-in-1 performance, this collection offers versatility and convenience that's designed to last, making it easy to tackle any recipe creation. New KitchenAid Nitro Carbon Steel Cookware debuts exclusively on Williams-Sonoma.com.

Designed to quickly become the most versatile, go-to pan, KitchenAid Nitro Carbon Steel combines the best features of cast iron, stainless steel and nonstick cookware, including: the renowned durability and excellent searing of cast iron; the lightweight agility of stainless steel; and the easy food release and effortless cleaning of nonstick, which can be obtained over time with seasoning and frequent use.

KitchenAid Nitro Carbon Steel Cookware solves one of the biggest struggles that home cooks have with carbon steel

pans – namely rusting and corrosion, which degrades carbon steel’s performance and longevity. This advanced collection harnesses the power of nitro heat technology to harden and seal the pan's surface. This process ultimately locks out moisture for unmatched resistance to rust, corrosion and wear and it makes the nitrogen-infused surface 22

percent harder than traditional carbon steel for ultimate durability.

The new collection’s nitro heat technology distinguishes KitchenAid Nitro Carbon Steel Cookware from other carbon steel cookware, allowing home cooks to elevate weeknight meals with exceptional cooking performance that only gets better with time. Built to last, KitchenAid Nitro Carbon Steel Cookware is crafted with sturdy stainless steel handles, is metal-utensil safe, compatible with all ranges including induction, oven and broiler safe to 750ºF (you can even use it on the grill) and backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty.

KitchenAid Nitro Carbon Steel Cookware is offered in the following open stock items: 10-inch Open Frying Pan ($109.95), 10-inch Open Stir Fry ($119.95), 12inch Open Frying Pan with Helper Handle ($129.95) and 8.5 inch Open Frying Pan ($99.95).

Digital food content publisher So Yummy and consumer kitchenware brand bella have joined forces to launch a first-of-its kind national collection of kitchen products for food hack enthusiasts looking for ways to conquer their busy schedules through a treasure trove of digital tips and tricks.

So Yummy by bella doubles down on So Yummy’s mission to inspire people to thrive in the kitchen without devouring all of their time, energy and money through simplified products and content that can help them do just that – at an accessible price point. Each item is priced at $24.99 and available exclusively at Target, both online at Target.com and on-shelves in more than 1,500 Target stores.

www.kitchenwarenews.com • MARCH 2024 • KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

With more than 63 million followers across all social platforms and more than 170 million monthly video views, So Yummy is the place where people seek ideas, tips, tricks and inspiration to make cooking more fun while saving time in an increasingly demanding world. Built in partnership with the kitchen electric experts at bella, So Yummy by bella gives everyone access to the most simplified kitchen appliances.

“The So Yummy team are kitchen hack masters who have inspired millions to be more creative in the kitchen,” said Shae Hong, founder & CEO at bella’s parent company, Made By Gather, “and they know first-hand what kitchen appliances families want to bring their creations to life.”

“At So Yummy, we’ve played with every air fryer on the market and what you find is every size and variation imaginable – with more buttons and knobs than I can count,” said Sharon Rechter, co-founder and president at So Yummy. “We wanted to simplify it for you. One size and one button, but endless possibilities.”

The products come with access to more than 100 recipes such as using the mini juicer to make Creamy Pink Limeade or the rice cooker to whip up Carrot Cake Oatmeal.

So Yummy by bella unlocks a potential for Target to connect the instore and digital experiences through products. Imagine seeing an incredible viral video featuring air fryer cheesecake on Facebook, then being able to purchase that air fryer and can even get direct access to the recipe while quickly adding all the necessary ingredients to a cart. Violá! Easy as air fryer cheesecake.

These products come in fresh and fun colors and a clean, compact design to keep the countertop beautiful – for kitchens of all sizes – including: • 2-quart Air Fryer – The perfect kitchen companion for everyday meals and snacks with its powerful yet compact design. Available in red, navy and lavender.

• 16-cup Rice Cooker – Cook and steam simultaneously, easily creating one-pot meals in no time.

Available in lavender.

• Portable To-Go Blender – The ultimate blend-andgo solution that’s cordless and featherlight, making it perfect for any busy lifestyle.

Includes a USB port for onthe-go charging. Available in fun strawberry and kaleidoscopic spring patterns, and lavender (online only).

• Mini Juicer – Transforms fresh fruit and veggies into delicious, homemade juices and sauces in a jiffy. Available

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in red.

• Twin Pack 2-quart Slow Cooker – Perfect kitchen companions for small, onthe-go meals or for serving dips and sauces at any gathering. Or keep one and give one.

Available in red and navy with matching strawberry or kaleidoscopic patterns.

S’well introduces its latest innovation in hydration, the S’well Explorer. Crafted with performance and functionality at the forefront, the S’well Explorer utilizes the same technology as S’well’s Original Bottles and Tumblers, while offering a new shape and increased functionality for drinking on the go.

The versatile, reusable bottle is the ideal companion for every adventure. Whether it’s exploring the great outdoors, embarking on a new fitness journey or simply conquering daily routines, the S’well Explorer is the perfect choice for those seeking a stylish bottle that seamlessly fits into a busy lifestyle.

“Our goal was to create a bottle that inspires adventure and encourages our customers to embrace the world around them,” said John Roscoe Swartz, divisional president at S’well’s parent company, Lifetime Brands, Inc. “The S’well Explorer does just that, featuring nature-inspired colorways and a sleek silhouette that is designed to move with you.”

The S’well Explorer is made from 91 percent recycled, post-consumer stainless steel, highlighting S’well’s continued commitment to offering reusable and sustainable solutions. It features a soft-touch handle for comfortable carrying and cup holder-friendly size options. The flip straw lid allows for easy, onthe-go drinking and leakproof transportation.

Like the original S’well Bottle, the S’well Explorer features Therma-S’well Technology with triplelayered, vacuuminsulated construction designed to keep beverages cold for 42 hours and hot for 10 hours. It’s dishwasher safe and BPA/BPS free with a condensationfree exterior that won’t sweat.

The S’well Explorer is available in three sizes, 24 ounces ($40), 32 ounces ($45) and 40 ounces ($50) in four color choices: Himalayan Salt, Carnelian, Onyx and Green Jasper. KN

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KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW • MARCH 2024 • www.kitchenwarenews.com

finishesroom

art

a

Four Hands unveils

For more than 25 years, Four Hands has been a leading designer and wholesaler of well-crafted furniture and décor, helping consumers create spaces that feel like home. In January, Four Hands opened the doors to its new and expanded Las Vegas showroom as it unveiled its winter collections.

Four Hands believes that furniture starts a room – and art finishes it. A form of individuality, art adds a human touch that feels curated and personal. Thousands of art pieces from more than 175 artists are produced by hand in the new studio, with all ready to ship within one to three weeks.

“Four Hands Art Studio has artists’ best interests at the forefront of their process,” said artist Aileen Fitzgerald.

“They highly respect artists’ work. And their quality in reproductions is next to none.”

From advanced scanners to 3D printers that reproduce texture and dimension, Four Hands offers the latest print technology in the 50,000+ square foot studio space.

showroom, winter collections

“Because Four Hands works directly with artists to print, frame, pack and ship pieces to high-end retailers and designers, my art gets seen in all the best places,” said artist Dan Hobday. “For any artist, this is a win-win situation.”

Four Hands’ Winter 2024 artwork includes:

Playscapes, No. 02 by Fountain Grass Studio, vertical grain 2.5 white oak Austin-based Fountain Grass Studios uses photographic collage to capture light-filled landscapes, layering many different pictures to reflect the grounded energy of a scene while simultaneously conveying a strong sense of broader connection – to each other and nature.

Arc De Triumphe by Guy Sargent, rustic walnut floater Photographer Guy Sargent takes inspiration from

contemporary art and paintings in his genre-spanning body of work. Landscape, architecture, still life, portraiture – no subject is off limits to his lens.

New Year’s Day by Jackie Lee Young, vertical grain 2.5 white oak Inspired first by her “eccentric” grandmother’s artistic lifestyle, Austin-based photographer Jackie Lee Young captures humanity through portraiture and candid captures, often of music culture and community. She favors 35mm and 120mm cameras.

Nyakuza by Amada Ané, finished within a decorative Brim field black frame of naturally distressed painted pine Amada Ané’s art is edgy, abstract and comes from the heart. Ané looks to her heritage for inspiration and uses photography, acrylic and oil to capture energy in her works, building texture to create the image on canvas. KN

outdoor Classy Casilda

living Collection Heightens Experience

Become a real icon of outdoor living. The Casilda collection designed by Ramon Esteve for Talenti returns in a new version confirming the vision of a brand that combines design and practicality, elegance and simplicity for an unlimited outdoor experience.

Born from the idea of breaking down the classic sofa without sacrificing a contemporary style, the first extra-soft among the outdoor sofas, dressed in teal with lava stone finishes, emphasizing the sophisticated minimalism of the seat, but giving a breath of freshness and chromatic relevance.

The structure of the armchairs and sofa – refined and light – highlights the upholstered elements, giving a subtle industrial character that in this version is emphasized. The rigid geometry of the powder-coated steel frame and fabric straps contrasts with the large soft cushions that ensure an incredibly comfortable seat.

The strips that make up the armrests of the living and dining seats meet every need thanks to the wide range of materials among which to choose: accoya wood in double iroko and sassafras, travertine, also in double titanium and silver finish and lava stone, ceramic glass in the elegant shade of green-fog, whose peculiarity lies in the workmanship totally artisan, which is responsible for the characteristic crackle effect.

The tables, dining and coffee table, are characterized on top in strips of accoya wood

alternating with travertine elements, according to the shade of the steel structure. New this year is the dining table top totally composed of lava stone slats, for a modern style that blends with the processing of ceramics typical of the Italian tradition.

Talenti is an Umbrian company specialized in the design and manufacture of outdoor furniture that combines elegance, functionality and quality. The Talenti collections, designed by international designers such as ps+a Palomba Serafini Associati, Ramón Esteve, Marco Acerbis, Jean Philippe Nuel, Christophe Pillet and Carlo Colombo, offer products for dining and living characterized by a strong reference to the indoor world, suitable for both contract and residential projects.

The company has shown over the years an increasing attention to the world of design and today it offers, with its collections, products that can satisfy not only the most classic tastes, but also the most contemporary ones. In consolidating its identity, Talenti has proved over time to be highly attentive to the global market and it is currently present in over 67 countries with a qualified and articulated sales network.

Every year, the company also participates in the main trade fairs in the sector and its products are chosen for international projects. KN

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KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW • MARCH 2024 • www.kitchenwarenews.com

shades springtime of

Carlo Moretti Collection

Design, creativity, artisanal techniques, extraordinary craftsmanship of the master glassmakers and the addition of touches of color – these are the perfect ingredients that make Carlo Moretti creations real masterpieces.

By skillfully mixing the transparency of Murano glass with lively shades of springtime colors as yellow, Carlo Moretti brings positive energy and good humor to the table and in every space.

I diversi Carlo Moretti 2000 I diversi glasses have a pure and essential shape. With 57 different decorations, the glasses are individual and distinct items, for a chic and always cheerful mise en place.

Made of Murano glass, mouth blown and finished by hand, they stand out for their colors and hot-applied decorative motifs: murrina, little rods, festoons, speckles, streaks, colored rings and spirals, gold and silver leaves – in transparent and opaque colors.

All pieces are signed and dated.

Epta Carlo Moretti 2021 Super vitamin colors – yellow, orange and green – to give positive energy to the mise en place. With the Epta glass collection, Carlo Moretti’s historic combination of glass with metal continues.

The copper integrated into the glass retains its color, while on the outside it is burnished to a splendid anthracite color.

Created in collaboration with the designer Diego Chilò, all pieces are signed and dated.

Le diverse Carlo Moretti 2000 Le diverse bowls bring color to the table, revolutionizing the style of the setting.

Multifunctional objects, they are a perfect gift idea.

captures seasonal colors

Le diverse bowls are produced in mouth-blown Murano glass and finished by hand with different hot-applied decorative motifs: small rods, speckles, streaks, rings and colored spirals – in transparent and opaque colors.

All pieces are signed and dated.

Monocromo Carlo Moretti 2018 From the perfect fusion of transparency with color, Monocromo vases are born in the Murano furnace. The color blends with the glass in a different way each time, creating always unique works, perfect for fragrant bouquets.

Made of Murano glass, they are mouth blown and finished by hand in colors: giallo, lattimo, rosso, nero, blue lapis and ottanio.

All pieces are signed and dated.

SingleflowerCarlo Moretti 2014 Singleflower by Carlo Moretti is a small vase to collect – designed to contain a single flower. In mouth-blown and hand-finished glass in various hot-applied decorative motifs: murrina, little rods, festoons, speckles, streaks, colored rings and spirals – transparent and opaque.

All pieces are signed and dated.

Lopas Carlo Moretti 1973 Lopas vases are made by overlapping three layers of glass in distinct steps. This results in a material that, by playing with light, changes thickness, consistency and chromatic effect.

The Lopas are two-tone mouth-blown and hand-finished vases, offered in different color combinations: rosso levante, rosso aragosta, giallo, lagunablu, grigio dandy and niveo.

All pieces are signed by Carlo Moretti. KN

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KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW • MARCH 2024 • www.kitchenwarenews.com

Smart Home Devices Global Market Seen as Booming According to Allied Market Research, the global smart home devices market generated $101.6 billion in 2022 and is estimated to reach $707.2 billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate of 21.5 percent from 2023 to 2032.

Rising demand for convenience and rise in awareness of energy conservation are driving the market growth. In addition, enhancements in communication technology primarily drive the growth of the market.

However high initial cost primarily is expected to hamper the growth of the market. Furthermore, integration with new technologies is expected to create lucrative growth opportunities for the market.

In the COVID-19 scenario, smart home gadgets have become even more important since they include a number of functions that encourage hygiene and reduce physical contact. Users may manage different parts of their houses with voice-activated smart home gadgets without having to touch surfaces, which lowers the chance of the

virus spreading. Because temperature and humidity levels affect the survival and spread of viruses, smart thermostats assist maintain a clean and healthy atmosphere.

The ability to program smart lighting systems to simulate occupancy increases security and deters prospective criminals by creating the appearance that someone is home even when homeowners are outside.

In high-touch areas, smart appliances that reduce the need for physical contact and promote hygiene, including voice-activated kitchen appliances and touchless faucets, are essential. Integrating health monitoring devices, such fitness trackers or smartwatches, may provide useful information about a user's health and wellbeing. This information is often used to monitor vital signs or detect symptoms early.

By enabling people to manage their homes remotely and through mobile apps, smart home equipment may be accessed and controlled from a distance, decreasing the need for outside help and limiting the risk

of infection.

By component, the solutions segment held the major share in 2022, garnering nearly two-thirds of the global smart home devices market revenue, owing to the growing integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning into smart home solution propels the market growth significantly.

The service segment would also display the fastest compound annual growth rate of 22.8 percent throughout the forecast period, owing to the growing need for comprehensive service packages that come with increasingly integrated smart homes.

The smart kitchen segment is estimated to dominate by 2032, according to the report.

By type, the lighting control segment accounted for nearly one-third of the global smart home devices market share in 2022 and is expected to rule the market by 2032, owing to offer users the ability to adjust color temperatures, brightness levels, and even create personalized lighting scenes to suit various moods and activities which

propels the market growth significantly. The smart kitchen segment would also display the fastest compound annual growth rate of 23.5 percent throughout the forecast period, owing to the ability to allow users to control ovens, refrigerators, and other devices through natural language commands.

By region, North America garnered the highest share in 2022, holding nearly twofifths of the global smart home devices market revenue in 2022, and is projected to retain its dominance by 2032, owing to the increase in adoption of smart security systems, providing homeowners with realtime monitoring and alerts through connected devices aiding the growth of the smart home devices market.

The Asia-Pacific region would also portray the fastest compound annual growth rate of 26.1 percent during the forecast period, because of the fast-paced urban lifestyle in the region, maintaining homes needs to be convenient and efficient, which is expected to fuel the market growth in Asia-Pacific. KN

Clean Composting’s Compost Collector Available Nationwide Clean Composting Company’s The Compost Collector, which makes composting clean, easy and affordable, is now available nationwide. This comes at a time when extreme weather crises caused by global warming continue to make global headlines, shifting consumer and government attention to sustainability and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

As a result, hundreds of cities across the United States already have or are in the process of enacting government composting mandates, with fines that can be imposed on residents and property managers that started on Jan. 1.

California is the current leader in the nation's composting efforts, with SB 1383 being the most significant mandate of its kind to reduce organics waste landfill disposal by 20 million tons – up to 75 percent by 2025. Since its passing, hundreds of cities

nationwide have followed suit, as improper disposal of food waste is a problem that makes up nearly 20 percent of landfills.

Although a previous study showed that 67 percent of those surveyed agreed with the enormous benefits of composting to save the environment, few people are actually composting on a regular basis. In fact, the most recent report by the EPA showed that rates of recycling (including composting) have decreased while the number of mandates has increased.

“Despite the known benefits of composting kitchen waste and food scraps to reduce harmful methane gas emissions in landfills, the majority of people are still not composting due to common misconceptions around it being messy, gross and expensive,” said Clean Composting Company founder and CEO Michelle Horneff-Cohen, who has been

a residential property manager in San Francisco for more than 25 years. “Without an all-in-one composting solution that solves the barriers to composting, we will continue to fail regardless of how strict recycling laws are or how much money is pumped into local initiatives.”

Unlike current composting kitchen containers that are typically lined with green “bio bags” that break down, leak and require additional cleaning of the host container, The Compost Collector is a fully compostable bin with a lid that can be tossed and replaced with a new one. Made with 100 percent pre-consumer paper pulp, The Compost Collector is different in that it not only protects against pests and odors, but actually aids in the regenerative process of composting, helping speed up the process of breaking down food scraps and organic matter.

With more states and hundreds of cities enacting recent composting laws requiring residents to separate organics and food waste from going into landfills, The Compost Collector is a more accessible and costeffective solution to help residents, buildings and municipalities stay in compliance while encouraging composting as a part of a regular garbage routine.

The Compost Collector is available for individuals, property management companies and municipalities, shipping to all 50 states.

Each container can be used for up to one week, costs less than 67 cents a day, and is available in a one-month ($19.99/month), six-month ($18.99/month) or annual subscription ($17.99/month). By the end of 2024, each subscription will result in a matching donation to a member of an underserved community to help them stay

Igloo Introduces Iceless Electric Compressor Coolers Igloo Products Corp. has launched its ICF Series, a collection of iceless electric compressor coolers, marking the company’s official expansion into the active cooler category. Released in five sizes with a wide temperature control range, the new collection is available now in the United States online and at select global retailers.

“After more than 75 years as a leading innovator and manufacturer of passive coolers, we are incredibly excited to announce that Igloo is charging forward to the future of cooling with our first-ever compressor coolers,” said Josh Militello, president at Dometic Mobile Cooling.

“The new ICF Series introduces Igloo’s active cooler category, a category in which we plan to invest and expand in the years to come.”

Functioning as both a portable refrigerator and freezer for life on the go, Igloo’s ICF coolers use electricity instead of ice to cool the interior to the user’s desired temperature.

As an iceless cooler, the ICF is lighter in weight than a comparable rotomolded cooler, has more interior space available and will not result in melted ice, improving the overall user experience.

“We’re happy to make cooling even more convenient for our consumers while finally giving ice cubes some well-deserved time off !” said Jeff Diamond, head of mobile cooling products at Dometic Mobile Cooling. “Our new ICF electric coolers plug into a power outlet, eliminating the need for ice and giving users full control of the temperature inside, so they can have more worry-free fun

outside for longer periods of time – when on the sidelines, tailgating, going on grocery runs and more.

Key features of the ICF Series include: • Temperature control: Easy access to the dimmable digital display allows users to set the ICF to a desired temperature (ranging 0–68°F) for keeping food/drinks frozen or chilled.

• Multiple power options: ICF can be plugged into a wall outlet at home (100– 240V AC input) or into a vehicle outlet (12V/24V DC input). Both cables are included.

• Three-stage battery protection: The built-in programming prevents ICF from draining a vehicle’s battery by shutting off the cooler when low voltage is detected.

• Ease-of-use design: Comfort carry

handles, interior compartment divider, interior LED light and one-touch lift latch on lid improve the convenience of use.

The ICF Series comes in rugged blue in five sizes: • ICF 18, $399.99: 20 quarts/19 liters • ICF 32, $499.99: 34 quarts/32 liters • ICF 40, $599.99: 41 quarts/39 liters • ICF 60, $699.99: 62 quarts/59 liters • ICF 80DZ, $999.99: 83 quarts/78 liters In a variation from the rest of the collection, the ICF 80DZ (dual zone) cooler features two side-by-side compartments with independent temperature control. Each compartment can be set to a different desired temperature allowing for more versatility in food, drinks and/or frozen items packed inside. KN

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www.kitchenwarenews.com • MARCH 2024 • KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

Melitta Cone Filters Herald Environmental Stewardship Melitta has unveiled its new cone filter certifications and packaging. With a strong focus on environmental stewardship, Melitta has obtained two prestigious certifications, the Biodegradable Products Institute certification and the Forest Stewardship Council certification, both contributing to the brand’s ongoing sustainability efforts in the coffee industry. Additionally, all packaging for Melitta cone filter boxes is made with 100 percent recycled paperboard.

These certifications coupled with Melitta’s long standing partnership with American Forests highlight the brand’s commitment to decisions that support the environment and future generations.

The BPI certification confirms that the Melitta Cone Coffee Filters are crafted using materials that are compostable in commercial facilities that accept compostable products.

By choosing these filters, coffee lovers can now relish their favorite brew while actively participating in efforts to reduce waste and protect our planet.

In addition, Melitta is proud to highlight its partnership with the Forest Stewardship Council. The FSC certification ensures that

the paper used in the Melitta Cone Coffee Filters is sourced from responsibly managed forests. By prioritizing sustainable forestry practices, Melitta contributes to the preservation of ecosystems and the livelihoods of local communities.

The introduction of these new sustainable certifications aligns with Melitta’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and its dedication to providing eco-friendly solutions. By opting for the Melitta Cone Coffee Filter, consumers can take an essential step toward a greener and more sustainable coffee experience.

As part of its creation of environmentally conscious products and packaging, Melitta has worked to incorporate eco-friendly practices throughout its operations. The brand’s coffee roasting facility in Cherry Hill, N.J., has been run by solar panels since 2017, which produce 563,385 kilowatts of

clean energy annually – an estimated annual environmental benefit equivalent to the planting of 50,942 trees, the conservation

of 367,425 gallons of water and the removal of 1,017,767 pounds of CO2 from the earth’s atmosphere.

“As a brand dedicated to sustainability as one of our guiding values, we continue to innovate within our supply chain to align with stringent global standards set by organizations like the FSC and BPI,” said Donna Gray, sustainability director. “Paired with corporate volunteerism and giving back through our partners, our commitment is to

work towards the pursuit for better coffee and a better planet.”

Throughout its more than 20-year partnership with American Forests, Melitta has planted more than 600,000 trees in landscapes across the country, making a substantial difference for wildlife, people and the environment.

Melitta’s newly unveiled “One Million Tree Challenge” is another remarkable initiative.

In this challenge, the brand pledges to match every tree donation made on the Melitta website until its goal of planting one million trees is achieved. Six hundred thousand trees have helped restore an estimated 1,500 acres of forest.

By the time they are 50 years old, these forests will have stored an estimated 174,000 metric tons of CO2 equivalent in their roots, stems and trunks. This is equivalent to the emissions from burning 19,579,161 gallons of gasoline or emissions from 21,930 homes’ energy use for one year. KN

Loss Prevention Drives Tech Investment Decisions for Retailers Retailers are actively seeking innovative technologies to revolutionize store efficiency, mitigate increasing retail theft and address critical labor shortages, according to “The 2024 Connected Retail Experience Study: Focusing on Omnichannel Efficiency.” The study was conducted by Incisiv in collaboration with Verizon and Cisco.

This pivotal shift towards digital transformation highlights the urgent need for integrated, intelligent solutions that not only enhance customer satisfaction and profitability but also streamline operations in an increasingly complex retail environment.

Key findings from the study include: • Omnichannel Efficiency Vital Yet Underachieved: Store efficiency, the No. 1 driver of retail business strategy, enhances customer satisfaction and profit margins.

However, only 36 percent of grocery and

general merchandise retailers express satisfaction with their current technology infrastructure.

• Loss Prevention Rises to the Top of the Agenda: 92 percent of retailers say improving loss prevention is an important driver of their store technology strategy, up from 52 percent just a year ago. Almost all (98 percent) of business executives and 85 percent of IT executives cite loss prevention as the most important outcome for investments in store systems.

• Retailers Have a Digital Associate Experience Divide: Only 11 percent of retailers meet the digital experience expectations of their Gen Z store associates.

Just 26 percent of grocery and general merchandise retailers are pleased with the technological tools available to their staff.

• Automation and AI: Significant Potential but Understanding is Limited: A mere 14 percent of retailers have a common

understanding of AI across the organization.

Although retailers estimate 72 percent of store tasks can be fully or partially automated, only 33 percent have been automated to date.

“This shift is not just about technology implementation; it’s about shaping a new retail paradigm," said Gaurav Pant, chief insights officer at Incisiv. “Bridging the omnichannel gap is not just a matter of competitive advantage but a necessity for survival, and adopting new technologies like automation is the frontier for differentiation.

“The disparity in digital experience for store associates, especially among Gen Z, is more than just a technological shortfall. It’s a wake-up call. Retailers must accelerate their digital initiatives to empower their workforce.” he said.

“As retailers tackle loss prevention and real-time inventory tracking through the

deployment of AI-powered live video analysis demanding more bandwidth and speed, their networks will be stressed like never before,” said James Hughes, retail CTO, Verizon Business. “Retailers continue to venture on their digital transformation journeys and it is imperative to bring together disconnected systems to create powerful, modular and intelligent solutions that can enable new functionalities, smarter insights and faster decision-making.”

“What I found most striking about the results of the survey was that there is a distinct gap between the business needs expressed by those responsible for retail operations, and the perceived needs and resultant capabilities provided by their existing technology platforms,” said Mark Scanlan, global industry lead, retail at Cisco.

“This will ultimately result in the business deploying shadow IT solutions to deliver the functionality they need.” KN

LG, WASH Expand Commercial Laundry Relationship Commercial laundry technology leader LG Electronics has expanded its relationship with WASH, one of the largest laundry route businesses in North America. The new agreement enables LG to increase its position in the fast-expanding market for commercial laundry solutions for multifamily housing and university dormitories while bringing end-users the convenience and performance of LG’s energy-efficient washers and dryers.

WASH is a leading B2B laundry service provider in North America, supplying and managing laundry solutions for multifamily properties across the United States and

Canada.

Through the new agreement, LG will supply WASH with advanced commercial washing machines and dryers offering ease of use, short cycle times and enhanced fabric care. Together, LG and WASH anticipate satisfying the growing demand for communal laundry facilities in busy housing and campus environments across North America.

LG Commercial Laundry machines, built with the company’s advanced Inverter Direct Drive technology, are designed to deliver durability and reliability. The design with the drum

directly attached to the motor, results in fewer components, reducing the likelihood of needing repairs. These LG Energy Star certified washers also reduce energy and water consumption and increase overall efficiency, while their proprietary balancing system reduces vibration for quieter operation.

“Our cutting-edge laundry solutions will further enhance WASH’s convenient services, delivering more value to customers and end-users,” said Baek Seung-tae, executive vice president and head of Living Solution Business, LG Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. “We will

continue to forge partnerships that drive innovation and help people enjoy a better life.”

The LG Home Appliance & Air Solution Company is a global leader in home appliances, smart home solutions, air solutions as well as visionary products featuring LG ThinQ AI. The company is creating various solutions with its industry leading core technologies and is committed to making life better and healthier for consumers by developing thoughtfully designed kitchen appliances, living appliances, HVAC and air purification solutions. KN

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TEAWARE Continued from page 1 “In today’s super-size, on-the-run world, tea remains one of the special indulgent moments that can and should be part of every day,” said Adam Thatcher, CEO of Connecticut-based Grace Farms.

“Passionate tea drinkers are looking for transparency, not only the origin of the tea itself, but also to watch the brewing take place,” he said. “That’s why we designed our small glass teapot and sipping glasses. The set is perfect for sharing a moment and enjoying the pure taste of tea.”

Grace Farms sells a Tea Set for 2 Gift Box with a teapot, sipping glasses and two canisters of Grace Farms tea (either Early Grey & Jasmine, Rooibos Chai & Spearmint or Rest & Revive teas).

“The ceramic teapot market has undergone rapid and substantial growth in recent times, and the outlook remains optimistic with projections indicating continued significant expansion from 2023 to 2031,” according to Advance Market Analytics. “The positive trend in market dynamics and the anticipation of further expansion suggest that the market is on track for robust growth rates in the foreseeable future.

“To put it succinctly, the stage is set for notable development,” the analysts say.

Consumers are also drawn to traditional tea-making dishware.

“Ceramic teapots are particularly useful for tea brewing since they are easy to maintain and offer excellent heat retention.

This teapot is the perfect choice for tea enthusiasts,” according to AMA Research.

Ceramic teapots are generally used to brew

KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW • MARCH 2024 • www.kitchenwarenews.com

hot tea and considered not ideal for iced teas, the analysts say.

“The ceramic teapot is to China what the Japanese tetsubin is to Japanese tea drinking.

These tea vessels are essential to the tea brewing process, especially for Chinese teas.

Traditionally, ceramic teapots were used in China to brew delicate teas such as green tea and white tea.”

AMA Research expects the global ceramic teapot market to see a compound annual growth rate of 4.3 percent.

So, the stage was set for manufacturers such as Tea Forté, whose name says

everything, to introduce a ceramic collection that honors the history of tea with contemporary notes.

Tea Forté says Fiore Sakura is inspired by the beauty of nature. With enchanting first blooms of spring, the teaware recollects a time for rejuvenation and renewal.

“Sakura builds on our everpopular cherry blossom designs with red and pink blossoms that awaken the senses and evoke the joy of spring,” according to Tea Forté. “Choose any loose tea to steep in the Sakura Fiore Teapot or Steeping Cup and take a moment to reflect on the beauty of nature and savor a perfect steep.”

The 14-ounce ceramic Forté Steeping Cup with Infuser includes a stainless-steel infuser basket and a ceramic lid that can be used as a tray after steeping. The 14ounce ceramic Forté Steeping Teapot features a drip-free spout and snug lid to keep tea warm.

On the more modern side, Verified Market Research says the stainless teapot market will grow at an annual compound growth rate of 4.01 percent from 2023 to 2030.

“The global stainless teapot market is gaining pace due to the increasing consumption of tea worldwide coupled with rising

product innovation by key market players,” according to analysts.

With consumers paying attention not only to the types of teas on the market, many are demanding appliances that properly prepare the water used to brew teas. Manufacturers including Salton are responding with kettles that feature variable temperature settings.

Different types of tea and coffee require specific temperatures for optimal brewing and extraction, according to Salton. With a variable temperature kettle, tea drinkers can set the exact temperature needed for the beverage, ensuring the best flavor and aroma.

Variable temperature kettles heat water to a wide range of temperatures – not just boiling. The versatility is particularly useful for making delicate teas such as green or white tea that require lower temperatures; they lose flavor and nutrients if the water temperature is too high.

The Salton Temperature Control Kettle (GK1758) comes with a removable Tea Steeping lid to steep various teas and lights in different colors as the temperature of the water rises. The temperature can range from 105212 degrees Fahrenheit.

The kettle has an automatic safety system that ensures safe operation: shutting off when the water starts boiling, if plugged in dry or

when lifted off the power base.

The Variable Temperature Kettle 1.7 liter/quart can heat tea, coffee, oatmeal, soup and baby food. It features an easy-to-read water level window, the three-level automatic safety system and adjustable temperature control with a knob on the side of the unit to steep a variety of teas at the proper temperature.

Salton’s Electric Glass Kettle 1.7 liter/quart Variable Temperature with Tea Steeper (GK1758) boils or heats water to the perfect temperature for a variety of tea.

Preset temperatures steep a variety of teas at the proper temperature. It features a keepwarm control that maintains temperature.

With an attractive glass design and a 360degree base and a height-adjustable stainless steel tea infuser, the kettle also features LED lights that change as the temperature rises.

The kettle is sold with two lids, one to use as a standard kettle and one for steeping tea.

At this month’s The Inspired Home Show, VQ – the British audio and small domestic appliance brand – will show how it’s strengthening its presence in the U.S. market with its latest developments, including a newly launched partnership with Laura Ashley.

Attendees will see the new VQ & Laura Ashley China Rose & Wild Meadow SDA range at the VQ booth, N8209. The collection features a curated selection of kitchen essentials that blend style, innovation and functionality.

From versatile kettles, toasters and slow cookers to sophisticated stand mixers, each piece is designed to elevate the culinary experience while embodying the timeless charm of British design.

Each item in the China Rose & Wild Meadow range is meticulously crafted, blending timeless design with innovative features, according to VQ. Additionally, what truly sets the collection apart is the combination of hand-applied Laura Ashley designer prints and a competitive price range. The exclusive collaboration offers the beauty and charm of Laura Ashley designs at an accessible price point. KN

SUPPLEMENT TO MARCH 2024

featured products

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KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW • MARCH 2024 • www.kitchenwarenews.com

FRANMARA CHEESEBOARD

WRAPMASTER HOME DISPENSER

Introducing Wrapmaster Home[R] – the ultimate solution to efficient food wrap dispensing, eliminating the frustration of finding the end of the roll or dealing with tangled and wasted wrap. This dispenser ensures a seamless kitchen experience, featuring a concealed blade for safe cutting, shatter-proof casing and rubber feet for stability.

The one-press cutting system allows users to effortlessly pull out the required amount of plastic wrap, aluminum foil, wax paper or baking paper, creating a tight seal to keep food fresh. Dishwasher safe and easily sanitized, the Wrapmaster Home[R] dispenser comes with adaptors that fit most national and storebrand food wraps with a cardboard core, making it a great up-sell addition to stores.

Available in a variety of colors – teal, red, black, white and navy – the Wrapmaster Home caters to every kitchen style. Say goodbye to kitchen clutter and hello to efficient food prep and cleanup. Retailers, capitalize on the growing demand for kitchen efficiency and consider stocking the Wrapmaster Home.

Contact Sales Director Mike Nelson at customerserviceNA@cofresco.com for more information or to explore alternative dispenser colors, subject to minimum order quantities and volume commitment.

Wrapmaster Home www.wrapmasterhome.com

Franmara’s cheese accessories selection is still growing. The 6681 cheeseboard, 11 inches by 8⅝ inches, is made out of a beautiful eco-friendly acacia wood, which has one-of-a-kind patterned grains on each cutting board.

The cheeseboard is available in bamboo as 6663.

The cheeseboard retails for $16.95 and higher. This mediumsized cutting board is utilitarian as well presentable for a cheese course, hors d’oeuvres or chocolate presentations.

Each cutting board features a one-of-a-kind pattern. Engraving or printing is available and looks great on this unique board.

Find many more cheese related accessories in the catalog (https://viewer.zoomcatalog.com/franmara-2020-no-pricing), website or trade groups’ websites. Franmara also specializes in wine and bar accessories. Franmara, Inc. carries over 2,600 products.

Franmara Inc. 800.423.5855 www.franmara.com

ETHOZ MINIMALIST MUG

Many know ethoz for making French press coffee makers, teapots and drinkware. Now, the Montana-based company has launched a stylish Minimalist Mug. The 12-ounce mug comes in black, gray and white with double-wall insulation to keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold.

They also have a snap-close lid with an angled sipping spout made of BPA- and phthalate-free plastic, a non-slip padded silicone base.

The elegantly simple and slim Minimalist Mug is ideal for anyone who enjoys their coffee or tea at home, at work or on the go. It looks good from the kitchen to the living room and the office. With a nice fit in the hand and durable, double-wall construction, you’ll be able to take your time with your favorite brew wherever you are.

Planetary Design www.planetarydesign.com

IGLOO DRINKWARE COLLECTION

Igloo tapped into its seven-plus decades of expertise in crafting water jugs and coolers to strategically design its Drinkware Collection with features that creatively address a variety of consumer needs while also replacing single-use water bottles and plastic cups. This assortment of bottles and tumblers is crafted with double-walled, vacuum-insulated 304-grade stainless steel and a copper lining that provide extended cold and hot liquid temperature retention.

Each style is dishwasher safe and includes one of three leakproof lids: Flip ‘n’ Sip lid, Sport Sipper lid or Twist ‘n’ Chug lid. Most are interchangeable with similar-sized bottle/tumbler rims within the collection.

Igloo combines aesthetically pleasing design features that also enhance how everyone drinks. The flat surface “thumb-grabber” along the side aligns with the mouth opening on the lid, so users know where to drink from without looking. The slimline shape with a rounded bottom cap easily slides into bag pockets and fits standard cup holders (most styles). The built-in rubber coaster keeps the vessel in place (without making a sound) on hard surfaces. The integrated, low-profile handle provides an extremely convenient carry option.

The Igloo Drinkware Collection comes in a variety of durable clear gloss-coated colors: white, carbonite, modern blue, spruce and flamingo.

Igloo www.igloocoolers.com

CIRCULON A1 SERIES

The Circulon A1 Series features the trademarked ScratchDefense technology, which is the world’s first “extreme nonstick” collection. ScratchDefense that eliminates worry that the cookware’s nonstick coating will get easily damaged or scratched.

Styled in a neutral and timeless graphite hue, Circulon A1 Series with ScratchDefense technology features an easy-to-clean, stain-resistant nonstick exterior and ergonomically designed handles, combining sturdy stainless steel and heat-resistant silicone for a comfortable and secure grip.

Tempered glass lids reinforced with strong metal rims allow cooks to monitor the cooking process without letting steam and flavors escape, and within the cookware set, the two saucepans have pouring spouts and straining lids for perfect pouring of liquids without messy drips. Circulon A1 Series with ScratchDefense technology is oven safe to 400° F. Circulon www.circulon.com

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www.kitchenwarenews.com • MARCH 2024 • KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW

ANDMORE’S ATLANTA AND LAS VEGAS MARKETS

EXCELSTEEL 4 CUP GOLD TONE EGG POACHER ALL-IN-ONE 7.5" STAINLESS STEEL LIDDED FRYPAN

Take the strain out of poaching the perfect egg for breakfast with Excelsteel’s bestseller, 4-cup professional stainless steel egg poacher. Designed with a vented lid and non-stick egg cups, this egg poacher is easy to clean and use every time. Built with an encapsulated base, a riveted silicone covered handle and a rust-resistant stainless steel. Impress your friends and family with a wonderfully cooked weekend brunch. Included is a free silicone spatula to get started the day it arrives. Dishwasher friendly and induction ready.

Cook Pro Inc. 951.686.8282 www.cook-pro.com

STASHER BOWLS

Stasher, a leading brand of reusable silicone bags, is expanding its lineup by adding Stasher Bowls to its portfolio of premium products. This launch celebrates the company’s biggest innovation since it created the best-selling bags that reinvented the food storage category.

Stasher Bowls are the ultimate to-go container, with the leak-free patented Pinch-Loc seal that stays open when you want it to and stays shut when you need it to. The new bowls are made from the same food-grade platinum silicone that the best-selling Stasher bags are made from and come in several just-right sizes designed for everything from sauces to salads. They are sturdy enough for storing and packing, while the wide opening means you can eat right from the bowl – whether in the office, at the park, or on the road.

Every bowl allows you to store, safely reheat and eat from the same bowl. The entire set easily nests without having to worry about finding the matching lid.

This product was made for anyone who has tried (and failed) to pour liquids out of a regular bowl and experienced a messy result.

Stasher Bowls are available in five sizes ranging from 1 cup to 8 cups and come in both clear and rainbow colors.

Stasher www.stasherbag.com

SMITHY NO. 14 SKILLET

From Smithey’s line of traditional skillets, the No. 14 reflects the company’s iconic cast iron skillet design, but with 14 inches of surface area to go from searing multiple cuts of steak to sautéing a dinner’s worth of vegetables.

This skillet is at home wherever there is heat.

From oven to grill, or stovetop to campfire rest, the No. 14 will become a go-to vessel for large quantity cooking.

Launched in May, the No. 14 retails for $250.

Smithy www.smithey.com

ANDMORE offers the only sourcing opportunity that curates the best of the East and West Coast, giving you more, no matter where you are. ANDMORE invites you to visit one of its two campuses – Atlanta or Las Vegas – where you’ll find the resources and inspiration you need to succeed.

Atlanta Market is a dynamic and immersive sourcing destination housing the nation’s largest product mix for gift and outdoor living, complemented by a broad selection of home décor and furnishings. Atlanta Market features more than 6,000 brands across campus including specialty categories such as gourmet, tabletop and housewares. Learn more and register for Atlanta Market, July 1622, at www.atlantamarket.com.

Las Vegas Market features thousands of furniture, gift, housewares and home décor resources in a worldclass destination. Along with West Coast product exclusives, Las Vegas Market offers an accessible, efficient buying experience for brands, retailers and interior designers. Learn more and register for Las Vegas Market, July 28Aug. 1, at www.lasvegasmarket.com.

Atlanta Market www.atlantamarket.com

Las Vegas Market www.lasvegasmarket.com

DRINKMATE OMNIFIZZ

Drinkmate’s OmniFizz home carbonation machine is a game changer. Its patented technology allows the user to sparkle any cold drink, quickly, safely and without dilution. While other brands only carbonate water, the OmniFizz can also directly sparkle iced tea or coffee, wine, pre-mixed cocktails, mocktails and even flat soda or beer.

Available in a variety of stylish colors including matte black, arctic blue, classic white and royal red. Drinkmate also supplies CO2 cylinders that are compatible with other machines, with an easy method to exchange empties. Contact the company to learn more about your opportunity with Drinkmate’s unique product and merchandising programs.

Drinkmate www.idrinkproducts.com

AQUA OPTIMA WATER FILTRATION

United Kingdom-based Strix, known for its kettle safety controls and water filtration products, is expanding its foothold in the United States with the introduction of a product collection focused on its mission to Innovate safety and design for a sustainable future.

Strix is deploying its world class technology into simple sustainable solutions. The expansion will unveil a number of products under its Aqua Optima brand, highlighting cost-effective water solutions.

Consumer awareness of water contamination issues, and the impact of single-use plastics continues to grow at a rapid rate.

In line with these trends, the group will unveil a range of Perfect Pour filtered water pitchers/dispensers, an SCAA certified coffee/hot drinks machine, and more.

Aqua Optima www.aqua-optima.com

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KITCHENWARE NEWS & HOUSEWARES REVIEW • MARCH 2024 • www.kitchenwarenews.com

The Inspired Home Show Keynotes Cover Market Trends, Opportunities, Colors Global and color trend forecasters, market data analysts and an executive from the leading Hispanic media network will share their home and housewares industry vision in special keynote presentations during The Inspired Home Show 2024.

The Show will be held March 17-19 at Chicago’s McCormick Place Complex. The keynotes are set for Sunday and Monday in Room S102 in the South Building. The hour-long sessions will be held at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. each day. Admission is free to all show attendees.

In the show’s opening keynote, Global Householder Trends: A View to 2025 at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Anna Ward, consultancy innovation lead at futures agency TrendBible, will discuss what is driving change in the home and interiors industry for 2025 and offer a deep understanding of the key shifts impacting the way householders will think, feel and act.

Other keynote sessions will focus on housewares and the influential Hispanic market, growth opportunities for the housewares market in 2024 and beyond and the harmony of the Pantone Home & Interiors color forecast. They feature Roberto Ruiz, executive vice president, research, insights and analytics, TelevisaUnivision; veteran IHA color forecaster and keynoter

Leatrice Eiseman, director of the Eiseman Center for Color Information and Training and executive director of the Pantone Color Institute; and Joe Derochowski, home industry advisor for Circana.

Here is a detailed schedule of the keynotes: Sunday, March 17 10-11 a.m.

Global Householder Trends: A View to 2025 Anna Ward, consultancy innovation lead, TrendBible There are powerful global forces at play for 2025. While global “mega threats” (from the climate emergency to inflation, living costs and energy scarcity) will continue to undermine householders’ sense of safety and security, in 2025 we’ll see overwhelm and crisis fatigue dissipate into a desire for optimism and abundance.

Ward will explore what’s driving change in the Home and Interiors industry for 2025 and offer a deep understanding of the key shifts impacting the way householders will think, feel and act.

1-2 p.m.

Future-Proofing Your Brand with America’s Growth Engine: The Hispanic

Marketing Imperative Roberto Ruiz, executive vice president, research, insights & analytics, TelevisaUnivision U.S. Hispanics are the single biggest growth opportunity today, comprising 20 percent of the U.S. population (and 30 percent of Gen Z!). On their own, a massive economy contributing $3.2 trillion to the U.S. GDP. Now is the time to build brand awareness and affinity with this cohort, with intention and authenticity. Ruiz will share actionable insights on the Hispanic opportunity – its growing contribution to the home and housewares industry, and how brands and retailers can make meaningful connections with this powerhouse population to ensure growth and success.

Monday, March 18 10-11 a.m.

Uncovering Growth Opportunities for the Home + Housewares Industry: 2024 & Beyond Joe Derochowski, home industry advisor, Circana 2024 will be a transformational year. After lockdown, returning to activities, many supply chain challenges and widely varying pricing and promotion, 2024 will be the year that all of the dramatic changes in consumer

behavior and the marketplace start to settle into the new norm.

In this presentation, Derochowski will lay out a plan for the rest of the decade with some short, mid- and long-term innovation opportunities to point the home and housewares industry toward growth.

1-2 p.m.

A New Harmony: Pantone Home & Interiors Color Forecast Leatrice Eiseman, executive director, Pantone Color Institute The everlasting search for harmony filters into every aspect of our lives and the informed use of color helps us to achieve that much-needed harmonious balance.

Featured in the PANTONEVIEW home and interiors color forecast, the theme A New Harmony offers inspiration, clarity and meaning to future color and design trends.

Eiseman will provide direction and insights on color palettes and design application in a presentation that will highlight consumers’ needs and motivations as they seek a more harmonious life and lifestyle. She will feature and explain the appropriate color blends, moods and hues that will resonate with attendees’ clients or customers. KN

Midea Doubles Down on Air Fryer Collaboration For consumers who are ready to transform their kitchen into a hub of culinary innovation, Midea introduces its groundbreaking Double Decker Air Fryer.

Renowned New York-based private chef and culinary influencer Chef Marco Medici has given his enthusiastic endorsement of Midea’s Double Decker Air Fryer. After a powerful collaboration with Midea Double Decker, he took the time to share his thoughts on the ingenious kitchen appliance.

In discussing his collaboration with Midea, Medici emphasized the importance of blending tradition with modern culinary innovation.

“Growing up in Italy, I was taught to appreciate the essence of fresh, homemade pasta by my nonna. Midea Double Decker allows me to easily integrate these traditional

elements into my cooking while embracing the convenience of contemporary kitchen technology,” Medici said.

He expressed special enthusiasm for the Midea Double Decker’s real two-zone cooking feature.

“Being able to cook two different dishes simultaneously and having them finish at the same time with perfect synchronization is a gamechanger for any home chef. It’s like having two ovens in one, offering such convenience without compromising on the quality of the final dishes,” he shared.

Discussing the appliance’s design, Medici

highlighted its space-saving attributes and powerful performance.

“The see-through windows not only allow for easy monitoring of the cooking process

TRADESHOW CALENDAR MARCH 4-6 Spring Market Atlanta, Georgia www.americasmart.com 17-19 The Inspired Home Show Chicago, Illinois www.housewares.org APRIL 13-16 Shoppe Object High Point, North Carolina www.shoppeobject.com

MAY 1-3 h+ h americas Chicago, Illinios hh-americas.com JUNE 19-25 Total Home & Gift Market Dallas, Texas www.dallasmarketcenter.com JULY 15-18 Casual Atlanta Market Atlanta, Georgia www.americasmart.com

16-22 Atlanta Market Atlanta, Georgia www.americasmart.com July 28-Aug. 1 Las Vegas Market Las Vegas, Nevada www.lasvegasmarket.com SEPTEMBER 16-18 Fall Market Atlanta, Georgia www.americasmart.com

but also add a touch of elegance to the kitchen. With less countertop space required, the Double Decker Air Fryer seamlessly integrates into any kitchen, making it a versatile and indispensable tool for home cooks,” he said.

The anticipation surrounding Medici’s endorsement of the Midea Air Fryer has generated immense excitement both at the event and within his worldwide culinary community. As a rising star influencer, Medici’s enthusiastic endorsement is a great quality indication of Midea’s innovative kitchen appliances.

Midea Double Decker greatly displayed the potential and capability of home cooking through innovation. Consumers can experience the perfect fusion of tradition and modern convenience right now by bringing the culinary expertise and the cutting-edge technology of Midea into the home. Home cooks can elevate their cooking game, explore endless possibilities and savor the taste of innovation. KN

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