Table of Contents

November/December: Vol 1, No 2

Industry Spotlight - 2006 Casual Market: A Megahit
BY CAROL DAUS
New programs at this year’s Chicago International Casual Furniture & Accessories Market™ proved to be popular with attendees.

Showroom Showcase - When Two Stores Are Better Than One
BY CAROL DAUS
One of this year’s Apollo Award finalists in the multistore category, the Greenhouse Mall, proves that moving into a secondary market can make a business prosper.

Hearth Retailer Profile - Spreading the Warmth 
BY SHARON SANDERS
This successful hearth retailer shows that, in many markets, customers are more focused on heating efficiencies than on trendy, upscale hearth products.

Barbecue/Grill Retailer Profile - Year-round Grilling, Even in Chicago
BY CAROL DAUS
The Backyard Barbecue Store in Wilmette, Ill., uses a novel marketing strategy to bring customers into the store during the winter months.

Marketing Maneuvers - Building a Brand Image 
BY SHARON SANDERS
Salt Lake City-based Leisure Living, the second-place Apollo Award winner in the single-store category, has found success by developing a strong brand identity.

As I See It – A Changing Marketplace
BY KEVIN GAYDOSH
Bob Gaylord, president of Agio International, offers valuable insight on the casual-furniture industry and his company.

My Turn - Hearth and Soul 
BY SHARON SANDERS
Award-winning designer Anita Lang Muellerhas a particular affection for hearths and encourages clients to include as many as possible in their remodeling or new-construction plans.

Product Innovation - A New Market-driven CFM 
BY CAROL DAUS
A new marketing strategy has people in the hearth industry talking about the new CFM Corp.

Last Word - Bringing Fabrics Front and Center
BY SHARON SANDERS
Successful Costa Mesa, Calif.-based retailer Gatehouse recognizes that offering customers a wide selection of fabrics for outdoor use can boost its bottom line.