LAS VEGAS - After two years of research, customer surveys and data analysis, International Market Centers announced that the company will launch a new digital platform for Las Vegas Market that will address key customer pain points uncovered through its engagement with Sapient/Razorfish, a leading digital consultancy. The new platform includes a redesigned, mobile-responsive web site, integrated mobile APP and enhanced exhibitor portal.

“After extensive analysis of data and customer web behavior, it became clear that buyers want a more granular search experience that goes beyond directory information,” said Dorothy Belshaw, president of gift leasing and chief marketing officer. “Subsequently,…

WENDELL, NC -  Laurie Rudd Public Relations and Marketing is excited to announce the launch of a new, revamped website for the boutique public relations firm.  The in-house redesign celebrates the ten year anniversary of passionate creativity, individualized attention, and proven results for clients of the firm that specializes in representation of home and outdoor product designers and manufacturers.

Visitors to the site will find ease of use for desktop and mobile platforms and can learn about the firm’s services, client roster, results, links to client sites, editorial placements in the segment’s most popular publications and Rudd’s blog Durable Decor.

Jim Kemp has been named vice president of product development for specialty at Agio, usA. Kemp is responsible for ensuring that new products are developed to satisfy the unique demands of patio specialty retailers and their customers.

“It’s a great opportunity to work with the level of talent Agio has put together. our designers and our research and development center are second to none that i have encountered within the industry,” Kemp says. “i’m excited to be part of the Agio team and looking forward to helping specialty retailers succeed in outdoor for years to come.”

Mike Gaylord,…

Mark Nureddine, CEO and founder of Bull Outdoor Products (Rialto, California), was this year’s recipient of the Donna H. Myers Barbecue Leadership Award at HPBExpo. Bull is a leader in the manufacture of prefabricated outdoor kitchen appliances and equipment, providing products to 900 dealers and distributors in North America, as well as in Europe, the Philippines, Costa Rica, and Panama.

Jack Goldman, president and CEO of the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, says, “Mark championed and popularized the concept of outdoor kitchens with his development of sophisticated barbecue equipment and accessories. Doing so helped to widen the barbecue market,…

Castelle has launched its latest interactive marketing asset, the custom draping tool. Available to consumers and castelle retail partners, this tool offers the ability to customize any collection piece in the entire brand of handcrafted outdoor furnishings with thousands of options, in virtual and printed formats.

Derek Ritzel, former president and ceo, says, “the introduction of sophisticated marketing tools to create a better selling environment for our customers and retail partners is a primary goal for castelle. this interactive draping tool works at the heart of what defines castelle: our customization capabilities. With its ability to provide a visual…

Montigo, a leading designer and builder of commercial and residential fireplace products, has appointed Sharon Murray vice president of business development. Murray brings the company more than 20 years of sales experience in the residential and commercial construction-products industry. She was responsible for major growth initiatives in hospitality and commercial construction, dealing directly with influential architects, designers, and builders.

Jonathan Burke, CEO of Montigo, says, “We are thrilled to have Sharon join our team. She is a great fit with our senior leadership group, and her depth and breadth of knowledge in the commercial and hospitality building- products sector…

Known for his timeless aesthetic and unique design perspective, esteemed designer Richard Frinier received a platinum Award for his studio collection of sunbrella®fabrics in this year’s Adex awards competition, an industry recognition of design excellence and product innovation. Greg Rosendale, business manager, jobber market, for glen raven custom fabrics (maker of Sunbrella fabrics), says, “Richard has an extraordinary passion and dedication to his work.”

He continues, “the studio collection fuses Richard’s eye for design with Sunbrella’s legendary performance, for a winning combination. We are honored to have richard as a partner and congratulate him on his continued success.”

Memphis Wood Fire Grills has hired Scott Severson as the national sales manager. Severson brings the company years of experience in the specialty channel for luxury outdoor products. With a successful track record both as a sales representative and as a sales manager, Severson brings Memphis a strong focus on customer relationships and proven sales techniques.

Sharla Wagy, general manager, says, “We are excited to have Scott join ourteam. He brings both the experience and the enthusiasm to help the Memphis team of field sales reps excel in their service to our dealer network.” All Memphis field sales representatives…