Occupation:
President of Frankford Umbrellas, manufacturer and designer of high quality shade solutions.

Special Interests/Hobbies:
“My children, shade solutions, running with my dog, and kayaking and fishing in my lake with my children and my dog.”

Problems/Issues Facing the Patio Industry:
“We are facing many issues in addition to COVID-19. In the aftermath of this crisis, we must dedicate ourselves to turning it into an opportunity. Big Box stores, and online Big Box stores, are inundating potential customers with so many low-end and throw-away outdoor furniture and umbrella options, with descriptive, yet deceiving descriptions.

“It is imperative we educate our retailers and their clients so they understand the differences in what they might see online, and what they can purchase in casual furniture specialty retailers across the country. We must provide our customers a unique product and a unique shopping experience, and not offer them anything they can find through Big Box online stores.

“This will, over the long run, encourage consumers to visit and purchase unique and high-quality products that can only be found in traditional brick-and-mortar specialty stores.”

Key Trends in the Patio Industry Today:
“Cantilever umbrellas have become increasingly popular, along with unique and stylish frame finishes and fabrics. Umbrellas and shade are no longer being thought of as an accessory to outdoor furniture, but as an essential part, and design element, in the outdoor living experience.

Impact of the Coronavirus on Your Business:
“In addition to a slight reduction in sales, Frankford has rededicated itself to our employees, and our contract and retail partners, as we all strive to reinvent ourselves and understand that crisis and opportunity go hand in hand.

Forecast for Sales in 2020:
“$20M.”

Years Reading Hearth & Home:
“25 years.”

Reasons for Reading Hearth & Home:
“Hearth & Home has been very helpful in identifying potential clients, as well as assisting in industry trends and issues facing the casual furniture market.”