January 2017

January 2017 Articles

Perspective: Carpe Diem

Ten years ago, Hearth & Home published an article by Jim Houck that took a broad look at the hearth industry, including factors that influence product sales. It was very well received, so we decided to update it.

Wake Up Mom & Pop!

By Bill Sendelback

It’s the right time for electric fires, a category that has shown remarkable strength and resilience throughout the downturn.

Facts, Figures & the Future II

By James E. Houck

Despite the uncertainties in weather and the price of fossil fuels, it’s clear that there remains a huge market for hearth products, and it’s increasing every year.

Forward to the Past

By Lisa Readie Mayer

Wood – Fire – Smoke – Meat – it’s basic, it’s primitive, it’s the next hot trend in outdoor cooking.

Growth Continues

By Tom Lassiter

There are few negatives but many positives with today’s plastic furniture, and more and more consumers are recognizing that fact.

Listen Up!

By Bill Sendelback

In Minneapolis, Peter Solac and his crew have made listening to their customers a top priority, and it has paid off.

Kick-starting the Kategory!

By Lisa Readie Mayer

To grow specialty sales, gas grill manufacturers concentrate on innovation, a wider range of price points, and outdoor kitchens.

The Last Frontier?

By Tom Lassiter

Not every manufacturer has given up on outdoor lighting; here are four companies creating products specifically for outdoor use.

Off The Grid

By Lisa Readie Mayer

Sustainable grilling and outdoor living products offer a niche profit center, as well as a positive impact on the planet.

January News: Navigating the Future

By Mark Brock

Upcoming ICFA Conference offers insights to a fast-changing world.

2016 November Business Climate

In early December Hearth & Home faxed a survey to 2,500 specialty retailers of hearth, barbecue and patio products, asking them to compare November 2016 sales to November 2015. The accompanying charts and selected comments are from the 186 useable returns.

Who Reads Hearth & Home?
Steve Dumais, for one!

Meredith, New Hampshire

Parting Shot: Aloft

When confronted with a problem at a loft condo in the contemporary One Boulder Loft building in Boulder, Colorado, architect Dale Smith did what architects frequently do – he came up with a workable solution.