Occupation: Senior Vice President – Sales, Weber-Stephen Products

Special Interests/Hobbies: “Golf, Hunting, Fishing.”

Problems/Issues Facing Barbecue Industry: “We feel this is a great time for the barbecue industry, for a few reasons. Weber has seen industry grill sales increase significantly as people transition into new homes, and we see the housing market starting to rebound.

“Innovation creates great products, such as the Weber Q1400 electric grill which is perfect for the increase in urban dwellers, whether that’s Baby Boomers deciding to retire in the city or younger families staying in the city longer.

“We love the saying at Weber that ‘Happiness happens around the Weber grill,’ and as the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to fire up the grill and slow down a little to reconnect with friends and family.”  

Status of the Outdoor Room Trend: “The Outdoor Room is growing in popularity because it’s a natural extension of the home. Entertaining friends and family is popular among all segments, and potentially the most popular with those in the Millennial generation. Research shows there is an increased investment in outdoor renovations, including the outdoor kitchen.  

“Fun fact from our Grill Watch Survey, ‘Eighty-four percent of the people surveyed said they were happy when they fired up their Weber grill. You don’t feel that same happiness when you fire up your oven.’ The happiness that comes from the traditional American barbecue could be a contributor to the rise in outdoor kitchens. Weber started in 1952 around the idea of bringing people together to enjoy a perfectly seared steak; we love seeing this tradition thriving today.”

Most Coveted Amenities in Outdoor Rooms: “A Weber grill.”

Years Reading Hearth & Home: “Twenty years.”

Reasons for Reading Hearth & Home: “Industry news, best-in-class retailers, Vesta Award winners, housing trends, regional sales trends, new products, legislative/industry news updates.”

Article(s) Ideas: “More news on Millennials and Millennial trends.”