Photo: ©2016 Tim Barnwell Photography. www.barnwellphoto.com.

Occupation: “Owner, Fire House Casual Living Store, a hearth, patio and barbecue retail store.”

Special Interests/Hobbies: “Golf, antique British sports cars, spending time with family and friends.”

Trends in the Hearth Industry: “We have experienced a continued increase in gas fireplaces through new construction and remodeling. Consumers are making higher price-point decisions for their chosen units and accompanying items. Gas inserts have also increased with existing homeowners.”

Trends in the Patio Furniture Industry: “Consumers are purchasing better quality and
higher-priced products. Seating with chat-height tables and fire pit tables are more frequently purchased. Consumers are more aware and ask for brand-name outdoor fabrics. Our sales of ipe wood groups are increasing. One of our best-selling products overall has been in HDH polymer groups.” 

Trends in the Barbecue Industry: “Kamado-style grills/smokers are a close second in sales to gas grills. We are seeing a return to more interest in built-ins and outdoor kitchens, but on a moderate budget level.”

Forecast for Your Business in 2016: “We are off to a good start for 2016 and remain ‘cautiously optimistic.’ Fall will be good due to pent-up demand and memories of a late cold and snow period this past January. ” 

Years Reading Hearth & Home: “I have been reading Hearth & Home for the past 21 years.”

Reasons for Reading Hearth & Home: “It’s the place to learn what other retailers are doing in their stores, and get an insight into what manufacturers are seeing and doing in their areas. 

“The Business Climate section with survey and sales information helps me compare with other areas of the nation and make decisions on our next adjustments or direction.”