Heat & Glo, a leader in fireplace design and technology, is excited to unveil its new MEZZO direct-vent gas fireplace series—modern, linear fireplaces with a distinct, sophisticated style to set apart any room of the home. Combining elegance and innovation, the new MEZZO reflects modern design elements that have become a fixture of contemporary fireplaces today: clean, linear design; a flush-to-the-wall finish; and low-profile trim.

The MEZZO features a fade-resistant black-glass interior and clear LED lighting that illuminates a bed of crushed glass, which is available in seven colors to create a stunning effect. Available in four sizes, the…

In spring 2015, Peak Season, casual/outdoor-furniture and decorative-accessory manufacturer, will move into a new headquarters building in Irondale, Alabama, which will also house its primary warehouse and distribution center. A large-scale renovation of the property is currently underway to accommodate the new facility for Peak Season. Irondale’s mayor and city council played a vital role in supporting Peak Season’s decision to make the city its permanent home.

The Companion Group’s Pizzeria Pronto® by Pizzacraft®received an Editor’s Pick Award from The Gourmet Retailer magazine in the kitchenware/tabletop category. Chuck Adams, CEO, says, “We are delighted to receive this award on behalf of our Pizzacraft brand. The Pizzeria Pronto is a revolutionary product that has taken the market by storm with its innovation and ease of use. The versatility of the Pizzeria Pronto allows owners to use it at home, camping, at barbecues, at picnics, and even at tailgating events.”

This award was determined based on The Gourmet Retailer’s assessment of innovation, functionality, quality, and overall value; the…

Homecrest Outdoor Living recently hired two new sales representatives. Gary Hug, known for his longstanding and strong working relationships with smallto- large retailers in the casual-furniture/hearth industry, joined Homecrest as sales representative for the Mid-Atlantic region, including the District of Columbia, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Hug maintains a large portfolio of dealer contacts, many of whom he’s maintained relationships with for numerous years. Hug resides in Eastern North Carolina with his wife and daughter.

Michael Mettendorf, vice president of sales for Homecrest, says, “Gary’s ability to develop and foster relationships that span more than 25…

Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens formed a new strategic alliance with Dekton, the innovative new line of ultracompact surfaces with advanced technical properties for exterior design by Cosentino, the leading manufacturer of quartz, natural-stone, and architectural surfaces. The alliance was launched at this year’s Fall High Point Market in October.

Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens will specify Dekton as part of its countertop-selection process. In addition, national Brown Jordan Outdoor Kitchens representatives will participate in a training session to learn about creating and offering designs focused on color combinations and performance for the combined products. The combination of Dekton countertops…

  After almost 35 years of owning and operating Armand’s (Culver City, California), Howard Steinberg is in the final stages of selling his beloved business. The establishment, on Venice Boulevard, has long been one of the best specialty grill and hearth dealers in Southern California, but Steinberg and his wife, Simone, thought the time was right, for personal and professional reasons.

The new owner of Armand’s is Dillion Clark, an employee of Amand’s, who will now take a leap of faith into ownership. Steinberg’s advice for Clark (and others in the business) is simple, yet timeless. “Give the absolute…

Gray Dobbins was honored with Gensun Casual Living’s Sales Representative of the Year Award at this year’s Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market™. The award is presented annually to a Gensun Casual Living sales representative for achievement in sales, customer service, communication, dealer and market growth, and business ethics.

Dobbins has been selling Gensun Casual Living lines since 2004 in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee. Growth in the territory has been nonstop, over the years, and was an astounding 44% in 2013–2014. Dobbins has spent his entire professional career as a casual/outdoor-furniture representative, starting with (and learning from)…

Treasure Garden was honored during September’s Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market™as the recipient of the 2014 Manufacturer Leadership Award in the shade category. Presented by the International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA), this is the ninth consecutive award from the outdoor industry recognizing Treasure Garden for manufacturing excellence.

Margaret Chang, president of Treasure Garden, says, “With each year, the goal of product and service excellence continues to drive the entire Treasure Garden organization, and this recognition by the retailers we serve is further proof of this commitment. While awards are appreciated, the true reward is found in the…