Occupation: CEO – Miles Industries 

Special Interests/Hobbies: “Music, winter sports, being a grandfather.”

Problems Facing the Hearth Industry in Canada: “The hearth industry faces similar issues in Canada as it does in the U.S. Our gas and solid fuel sectors are increasingly subject to regulatory scrutiny, from multiple levels of government, with regards to energy conservation, building code changes and the environment. Many regulators don’t understand the hearth products industry, nor are they current with today’s more evolved designs and technology. We must be prepared to engage and inform. 

“Sometimes the hearth industry undermines its own position by not always being consistent or credible with performance claims. For everyone’s sake, we need to mature and self-police to higher standards in this regard.  

“Nevertheless, we still have a positive story to tell. We deliver a more direct form of heat that provides comfort, ambiance, security and the potential for energy savings through zone heating. The hearth industry, north and south of the border, must begin working cohesively to make its case.”

Forecast for Your Canadian Hearth Product Sales in 2015: “We see continued steady growth and a positive attitude among our Canadian dealers.”

Health of the Hearth Products Market in the U.S: “I would characterize the U.S. as experiencing a ‘robust rebound’ – the healthiest we have seen in a number of years.”

Forecast for Your U.S. Hearth Product Sales in 2015: “We see continued strong growth within our U.S. dealer base.” 

Years Reading Hearth & Home: “I can’t remember how many years I’ve been reading Hearth & Home, but then there are many things I can’t remember anymore. I’m sure it’s well back in the eighties.” 

Reasons for Reading Hearth & Home: “Hearth & Home maintains a consistently high standard, and its feature articles are always topical, timely, and well researched. I like the way Hearth & Home profiles and introduces us to such a wide variety of people and businesses.”

Article Idea(s): “I would like to see an article detailing all the many benefits that hearth products provide, and how they have kept pace with the changing remodel and new home construction and design technologies.”