Archive for July 2011

Pride Family Brands Unveils Designer Casabella Collection In Response to Consumer Buying Trends

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With the introduction of the Casabella Collection from its Castelle line of high quality cast aluminum casual furnishings, Pride Family Brands responds to current buying trends with simplified design styling.

The introduction of the Casabella Collection from Pride Family Brands' Castelle line of designer cast aluminum casual furnishings answers a growing trend for affordable luxury through simplified styling.  With the award-winning quality for which Pride Family Brands is known, the Casabella offers an elegant design simplified to attract today's consumers. 

"We are proud of our history of high quality outdoor furnishings. We also are committed to our retail partners and to being responsive to trends that are occurring in the marketplace," said Jamie Lowsky, CEO, Pride Family Brands. "With the Casabella and other introductions this season, we are able to offer the specialty retailer high end products at multiple pricing levels without sacrificing  Prides' superior level of design, manufacturing and customer service."

The use of a larger profile woven aluminum detail in the chair backs and an open arm design, the Casabella creates outdoor elegance affordably.   "Pride continues to offer the finest in casual furnishings with an awareness of today's buying trends," said Rory Rehmert, vice president of sales and marketing for Pride Family Brands. "The Casabella delivers just that and more."  Cushioned and sling dining as well as deep seating in standard and crescent styles are available in the Casabella Collection.

The Casabella Collection will be introduced in Pride Family Brands' showroom #1747 during the International Casual Furnishings and Accessories Market at the Chicago Merchandise Mart from September 12 - 15, 2011.

For more information about Pride Family Brands and their distinguished lines of casual furniture visit www.pridefamilybrands.com or contact 954-735-9800.

Maxine Lauer, CEO of Sphere Trending Offers Color and Fabric Trends For Outdoor Retailers

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In the July 2011 issue of Hearth and Home magazine, Maxine Lauer, CEO of Sphere Trending is featured in two articles that provide tremendous insight into what she is seeing for outdoor living including fabric trends, color trends and much more. Maxine provides valuable insight of which specialty retailers and their sales personnel need to be aware. Specialty retailers are the PROS in the world outdoor living.  Let it show.  Even if the end purchase is taupe and bronze; knowing and sharing the latest trends is a valuable selling tool.

Outdoor Living Products -- Catch some FREE publicity!

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Casual Living is looking for photos and caption information to be considered for inclusion in their September - Casual Market  issue. The deadline is August 8.  All companies exhibiting at the September 2011 International Casual Furniture and Accessories Market in Chicago are invited to submit! See their site for details!  www.casualliving.com

Tropically Inspired Outdoor Furnishings Introduced With The Cannes Collection from Pride Family Brands

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Elements handcrafted of weather resistant aluminum and inspired by the tropics come together to create the Cannes Collection; the latest casual furnishing introduction from the award-winning designers at Pride Family Brands.


Tropical locales and motifs are the inspiration for the Cannes Collection, the latest addition to the Castelle line from the award-winning designers at Pride Family Brands. Each piece in the collection incorporates handcrafted rattan-like elements formed of heavy duty all-weather aluminum. Through an airy open work back design and oversized fade-resistant cushions, the Cannes provides a fresh tropical look. The collection incorporates sling dining, cushioned dining and deep seating to fully dress any outdoor space.


"Our Coco Collection was our first cast aluminum collection and its tropical look has made it a consumer favorite to this day," said Jamie Lowsky, CEO, Pride Family Brands, Hollywood, Fla. "With the addition of the Cannes Collection, we feel we have another winning tropical group that can create an island vacation feel for any backyard or patio."


With curving cane-like double supports and decorative arcs, Cannes brings the beauty of the tropics to life. Dining options including sling and cushioned seating as well as multiple conversation pieces are included in the collection. All pieces are equipped for long outdoor use with durable multi-phase powder coat finishing and attractive hand-applied antiquing.


The Cannes Collection will be introduced in Pride Family Brands' showroom #1747 during the International Casual Furnishings and Accessories Market at the Chicago Merchandise Mart from September 12 - 15, 2011.


For more information about Pride Family Brands and their distinguished lines of casual furniture visit www.pridefamilybrands.com or contact 954-735-9800.

A Cushion is a Cushion… but not necessarily a good one! Cushions... the outdoor soft spot!

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In a never ending quest for cost cutting on indoor and outdoor furniture, many manufacturers have chosen to import their cushions from overseas. Cushions can make or break outdoor relaxation. There are choices out there; selecting the right one is worth a closer look.

Even though labor costs have always been notably less offshore, in past years the limited selection of marketable fabrics has left a lot to be desired in both quality and style by American standards.  The solution to that was to export domestic fabrics, cut, sew and stuff overseas and re-ship the finished goods back once again to the American market.  The time and cost of this process pretty much eliminated the benefit.

In recent years, notable improvement in offshore fabrics has once again encouraged cost cutters to import cushions to cover their product. They often look “acceptable” to the untrained eye, and the landed cost of a cushion with imported fabric and fill is a fraction of the cost of one containing American made materials and labor.

However, there is far more to a good quality cushion than appearance. There is still no substitute for well engineered consistent quality cushion filler.  An attractive and functional design, the proper density of high quality foam combined with premium fiber, and quality sewing is the one and the only way to accomplish the comfort and durability that our consumer deserves… and demands. 

In most cases one test drive of an imported cushion is all it takes to understand this point.  “It looks nice… price is low… but OH MY… it surely isn’t comfortable!” Furthermore, these imported fillers typically break down even more in a very short time. 

Fortunately for those of us in the casual specialty industry, our big box counterparts have chosen to take the path of price, price, and price.  In some cases, it is difficult for our end consumers to recognize the difference in quality of the frames between our products and theirs.  But I promise you, when they sit down for a few minutes, they will become irrevocably convinced that there is truly a difference in comfort between a good domestically produced cushion and a cheap import.

Palm Springs Rattan and Garden Classics has been manufacturing cushions in Florida since the early ‘80’s.  Each cushion is uniquely designed for style, durability and utmost comfort on its specific frame.  All Palm Springs sofas, sleepers, loveseats, recliners and action chairs are manufactured in the USA by American craftsmen.  There is also a very extensive selection of high quality fabrics offered at one grade pricing.  By utilizing only the best fabrics and fillers and strictly controlling the quality of sewing, we are able to consistently deliver style and comfort that is second to none in the furniture industry.

Most successful suppliers will tell you, the cushion on a seating or dining group is an extremely vital part of the success of the group.  You can have the best looking frame in the world, but if the cushion is not properly designed, the group will not retail.  At Palm Spring Rattan and Garden Classics, we understand cushions.  We have always believed that the first impression of our furniture must be a “WOW”, and the second impression as the customer sits down must be an “AHHH”.  Every piece is individually designed to earn that reaction.

“Our high back rattan seating is a good example”, states Tami Newton, Palm Springs Rattan’s marketing director.  We have pulled out all the stops on comfort.  Every person who sits back into our Islamorada Seating says it is one of the most comfortable sofas they have ever experienced.”

Yes... a cushion is a cushion… and some can even look pretty good.  But when you find the one that is designed from top to bottom with pride and quality, you will quickly experience the difference.

Customers buy comfort….


by Jerry Newton, Casual Industry veteran entrepreneur


Ibiza Collection, With An Old World Design Motif, Is The Latest Introduction From Pride Family Brands' Castelle Line

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From the manufacturer of handcrafted outdoor furnishings, Pride Family Brands, the Ibiza Collection incorporates intricate cast work while adding old world style to outdoor living.

A European design influence and old world details are incorporated as the latest collection from Pride Family Brands' Castelle line, the Ibiza, is introduced. From the luxury manufacturer of aluminum outdoor furnishings, the Ibiza Collection is handcrafted incorporating designer cast components inspired by old world artistry.   

"The handcrafted quality of our furnishings is on full display with the Ibiza Collection," said Jamie Lowsky, CEO, Pride Family Brands, Hollywood, Fla. "Simple, yet well appointed, the curved supports and open back castings exemplify the artistry and skill that our design team puts into every collection and what has made them the recipient of multiple design awards." 

Named for a beautiful Mediterranean island off Spain, the Ibiza boasts intricate eternity-like curves in chair back castings and flowing arm supports. Ibiza is being introduced with a full complement of dining options including sling and cushioned seating as well as multiple conversation pieces. Items within this collection are crafted to coordinate with other old world collections offered throughout Pride's Castelle line. All pieces are equipped for long outdoor use with durable multi-phase powder coat finishing and attractive hand-applied antiquing.

The Ibiza Collection will be introduced in Pride Family Brands' showroom #1747 during the International Casual Furnishings  and Accessories Market at the Chicago Merchandise Mart  from September 12 - 15, 2011.

For more information about Pride Family Brands and their distinguished lines of casual furniture visit www.pridefamilybrands.com or contact 954-735-9800.

Ibiza Collection, With An Old World Design Motif, Is The Latest Introduction From Pride Family Brands' Castelle Line

►
From the manufacturer of handcrafted outdoor furnishings, Pride Family Brands, the Ibiza Collection incorporates intricate cast work while adding old world style to outdoor living.

A European design influence and old world details are incorporated as the latest collection from Pride Family Brands' Castelle line, the Ibiza, is introduced. From the luxury manufacturer of aluminum outdoor furnishings, the Ibiza Collection is handcrafted incorporating designer cast components inspired by old world artistry.   

"The handcrafted quality of our furnishings is on full display with the Ibiza Collection," said Jamie Lowsky, CEO, Pride Family Brands, Hollywood, Fla. "Simple, yet well appointed, the curved supports and open back castings exemplify the artistry and skill that our design team puts into every collection and what has made them the recipient of multiple design awards." 

Named for a beautiful Mediterranean island off Spain, the Ibiza boasts intricate eternity-like curves in chair back castings and flowing arm supports. Ibiza is being introduced with a full complement of dining options including sling and cushioned seating as well as multiple conversation pieces. Items within this collection are crafted to coordinate with other old world collections offered throughout Pride's Castelle line. All pieces are equipped for long outdoor use with durable multi-phase powder coat finishing and attractive hand-applied antiquing.

The Ibiza Collection will be introduced in Pride Family Brands' showroom #1747 during the International Casual Furnishings  and Accessories Market at the Chicago Merchandise Mart  from September 12 - 15, 2011.

For more information about Pride Family Brands and their distinguished lines of casual furniture visit www.pridefamilybrands.com or contact 954-735-9800.

Pride Family Brands Launches Phase Two of Its "Attention To Detail," Multi-Level Promotional Campaign

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Comprehensive promotional campaign to enter phase two for casual furnishings manufacturer, Pride Family Brands utilizing traditional and emerging media.



Pride Family Brands, manufacturer and designer of casual furnishings, announces the launch of the second phase of its "Attention to Detail" (ATD) promotional campaign slated for 2011-2012. Numerous media and marketing outlets including traditional and emerging media will be incorporated into the efforts.


Earlier in the spring of 2011, the first phase of the campaign was announced including the naming of Jamie Sorcher, media personality, as Pride's Resident Lifestyle Expert and the host of the company's Attention To Detail video series. Phase two will include additional video productions as well as theme driven print and electronic advertising, email marketing, expanded social media and coordinated collateral materials.


"Over the past two years, we have positioned Pride Family Brands as a luxury outdoor furnishings company with our 'Finest Casual Furniture In the World' campaign," said Steve Lowsky, executive vice president of Pride Family Brands, Hollywood, Fla. "From that campaign came the Attention To Detail theme that is what defines the product quality position recognized by our retail partners."


Phase two of the campaign will focus the theme as it relates to multiple components including Pride's product design, the cast construction, the finishing, the fabrics ultimately to the packaging. "Attention to Detail is not only an advertising campaign, but a visualization of our ongoing company policy," said Rory Rehmert, vice president of sales and marketing for the award-winning casual furnishings manufacturer. Pride Family Brands will incorporate the campaign's message into internal and external communication including newsletters and retailer handout materials.


Multiple videos featuring Sorcher interviewing members of the Pride sales and management teams on topics related to the ATD message will be made available to the trade and consumers via Pride Family Brands' website, social media sites and online video sites including YouTube.


For more information about Pride Family Brands and their distinguished lines of casual furniture visit www.pridefamilybrands.com or contact 954-735-9800.

Small and portable outdoor furnishings on the rise

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Although many Americans are downsizing and moving into the city, urbanites still are yearning for their own outdoor oasis. In the past, these urban dwellers were forced to squeeze oversized dining or lounge furniture and accessories onto a small balcony, rooftop terrace or patio. Now, however, casual furnishing manufacturers are beginning to cater to a more urban market. City dwellers have a host of furnishing and accessories options, such as portable grills, collapsible furnishings and smaller-scale accessories, opening up more opportunities for casual retailers to cash in.


Go modular
Those with limited space will find that modular sets are most easy to manage. These suite sets can fit together in creative ways, saving room in tight spaces and still looking great when not in use. Chairs may stack and stools may push under the table.

Neutral colors are the best choices for big-ticket items such as seating and tables. Tan and gray will reign this year, with neutral trending toward cool taupes, charcoals and soft grays. These modular pieces and neutral colors make it easy to changes things around to create a brand new look each season.

Grilling on the go
"With state-of-the-art functionality, grills designed for mobility are growing in number and in options across the industry," reports Casual Living magazine. Charcoal or electric grills featuring large cooking surfaces that are easy to clean and light enough to carry will be most popular among your customers.

Fold it up
Simple to pack up and store in a closet or shed, folding furniture has been around for nearly 300 years, according to Casual Living. The most iconic piece of folding furniture is the director's chair. "It grew in popularity when the movie industry began, and there was a need for a portable seat," explains Bill Vanderminden, executive vice president of Telescope Casual, in the Casual Living article. "Portable chairs can become silent sale-makers, not taking up much space. They and other portable furnishings could be the best-kept secret in casual sales."

These days, folding chairs offer many more features than removal fabric backing. Some folding chairs can be adjusted to multiple back positions, which improve comfort and can be used as a chaise when paired with an ottoman.

Tables get in on the folding action too. You can find a range of tables, from cocktail to dining and gathering heights, reports Casual Living.

Multipurpose matters
When space is at a premium, furniture that can perform numerous tasks is a must. Casual furniture that serves multiple functions include storage in tables and seating, picnic tables that double as conference tables, benches that can be used for casual entertaining and dining, and islands that can be used indoors and out.

Search for products
Whether you are looking to break into the urban-dweller category, or just searching for the trendiest items to add to your product mix, you will find it at the 2011 International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market, which will be held Sept. 12-15. Get a sneak peek of the newest products that will be available at the show by browsing the Casual Market Online Product Locator.
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