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STAFF Christina Kwan
Vincent Perozzi Colby McCormack Susan Holmes
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kwan inc. media Bringing news across continents. Focusing on market trends and innovations across a vast array of industries that impact today's business.
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HOME I BUSINESS I GAMING I MOTORSPORTS Consumer Goods News focusing on the consumer goods industry as it relates to trends and innovations. Bringing news about key products that have the capacity to influence its respective industry on a global scale.
[1.7.10] Garmin's
GPSMAP® 700 series will be the first touchscreen controlled stand-alone
marine chartplotters with radar capability and built-in sonar at an
affordable price. “Our
touchscreen technology is recognized throughout the industry for its
performance and ease of use, and we’re excited to further expand our
product line with these new panoramic displays,” said Dan Bartel, Garmin’s
vice president of worldwide sales. “In a class of their own, these
products offer a whole new perspective on fingertip navigation and bridge
the gap between the entry-level boater and the luxury yacht customer.”
These units feature a sophisticated and elegant “flat-screen” physical design that complements today’s modern boats. Boasting a sleek 7-inch super-bright, waterproof (IPX7 standards) touchscreen display, the GPSMAP 700 series offers unprecedented extremes of brightness for daytime readability with super low-level dimming for optimum night vision. With a built-in high-sensitivity GPS receiver, these new chartplotters are the navigation solution for a single station vessel, and with their small footprint, can fit onboard a vessel where other larger units cannot. The built-in GPS receiver provides installation location flexibility, and therefore can also effectively serve as the back-up navigation station on a larger yacht. [11.30.2009] Camp Chef Debuts New Mountain Series For the Outdoor Enthusiast As an answer to consumer demand, Camp Chef has come out with their new Mountain Series featuring a line-up of stoves and lanterns.
To partner with the new stove series, Camp Chef has a new three product lantern series. There are three lightweight and powerful gas powered lanterns. The
Solar Flare Lantern (Model #: MSL3D) is a three mantle lantern that
is prime to set the standard in the lantern market. This product features a wire foam
globe cage that is made of unbreakable stainless steel mesh. It has a matchless ignition and a
base with swiveling feet.
The everyday
workhorse in the lantern line is the Solstice Lantern (Model #:
MSL2D) made with two mantles, a metal mesh globe and
matchless ignition. The Helios Lantern (Model #: MSL2) is suited for an outdoor outing with two mantles and matchless ignition. Images courtesy of Camp Chef. [9.3.09] Ed Hardy launches baby products at ABC Kids Expo
The official
launch of Ed Hardy baby products will be at the ABC Kids Expo next
week. The line of baby hardware products will be
introduced. As pictured is the preview of the Ed Hardy
pacifier.
[7.27.09] WSA to provide attendees with seminars that inform and inspire In providing value to WSA attendees, there is a focus in providing the information and tools that will benefit the industry as a whole. To help buyers and manufacturers alike, WSA has a wide array of seminars to address all facets of the supply chain. As the largest footwear, handbag, and accessories marketplace in the world, WSA is committed to providing a 360 degree viewpoint of the footwear industry. A glimpse of some of the seminar
topics to be addressed at WSA are: How to Run a Successful Store (2
parts), Pantone Color Trends for Spring/Summer '10 and Beyond, Positioning
Your Brand to Stay Ahead of the New Product Safety Law, How to Manage Your
Supply Chain to Get Product to Market Faster.
Mineral cosmetics specializes in the restoration of the complexion
Introducing a new Spring 2009 line of mineral enriched products at the annual International Esthetics, Cosmetics, and Spa Conference (IECSC), Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics focused its creations on aiding the restoration of one's complexion. Utilizing a Mineral Primer and facial Mists, these newly generated formulas work on hydrating and nourishing the skin. The Mineral Primer combines a rich mix of Vitamins A and E, while also containing minerals that protect skin cells, stimulate collagen production and repairing of stressed skin. Working with natural pigments of the earth, minerals are a forefront of the industry due to its ability to give the industry healthy lines of cosmetics. With a mineral cosmetic's ability to reflect light which aids in the smoothing of fine lines and blemishes, it is also a healthy and natural alternative to petroleum dyed cosmetics. Developed by owner Pauline Youngblood Solis, her pioneering efforts in the cosmetics industry have distinguished her among the elite. Working with minerals, she first set out to develop cosmetic lines that were gentle enough for even patients recovering from harsh medical procedures such as peels, surgeries, and even cancer treatments. With these breakthrough combinations, Youngblood Soli then took her products to the commercial market. Photo courtesy of Youngblood Cosmetics. IECSC 2009. [2.18.09] New product HemstayTM keeps you straight Debut product Hemstay, founded by Dorie Caulfield, has found a niche in developing a product that can help the majority of women today. Hemstay, is a product that solves the issues women face with wearing long pants with mules, clogs, and backless shoes. From concept to creation, the year and a half process has gone through the natural road course of tests and redesigns. Women from around the world were given trial Hemstays in which to give valuable feedback in its performance. The most difficult part of the design process was locating a material that would be seamless in its incorporation of the pant leg. The final market ready product today is made out of a thin and pliable adhesive recyclable plastic that can be used up to four times before discarding. Hemstays can be used with pants of all materials with the exception of silk, which is an extremely delicate fabric that is difficult to apply any type of adhesive to. Reaction from buyers can be summed up as relief that Hemstay has developed a solution to an every day issue. In a twist, men have also found use for Hemstay when work boots have caused their pants to hang up. The company looks forward to expanding their product line in the coming year. MAGIC 2009. More
information on Hemstay can be found at www.hemstay.com.
MAGIC Marketplace is in Las Vegas from February 17-19. The highly anticipated show highlights new brands, more efficient merchandising, and industry resources. Many categories will be covered at MAGIC, but the accessibility of the entire show for its attendees was of paramount importance to the show's organizers. “MAGIC attendees return each season to
find the industry’s finest new resources in one convenient location, and
we are always looking for ways to support the market’s needs and remain
that leading portal,” said Chris DeMoulin, President, MAGIC International
and Executive Vice President, The Advanstar Fashion Group. “As consumer
buying behaviors change and adapt, we will do the same, remaining one step
ahead and ensuring that MAGIC remains the most effective forum for the
business of fashion in the world.”
[2.10.09] Accessory items also suffering the same fate as furniture sales  In a time where new products
should be making its way into the headlines, it's instead overshadowed by
the worrisome fears of business owners that don't know if their operation
will survive the
current economic conditions. While navigating through the World Market Center, there is a common demeanor, fearful optimism. Owners know that they have to make the most of the show this week, yet they can't help but wonder if their buyers will have the funds to complete purchase orders. Like a domino effect, the downfall of buyers mean another lost account for manufacturers and importers. One 30-year veteran of the accessories import business recalls with clarity the sudden decline of business last October. With pending write-offs from vendors who have closed their doors, all the experience in the world cannot seem to calm down business owners. While at times looking teary-eyed, this one business owner still held on to hope. Asked what companies are doing to keep their businesses running, one owner disclosed that a reduction in staff by half has been necessary. Also, with green initiatives, printed catalogs featuring their line of products have been replaced with online catalogs. Speaking with other companies and their representatives, there is a sense that specialty stores with unique products that have either little or no competition seem to be a key strategy. In a declining market, specialty stands out. While no one believes that anyone can profess that their company is doing great, some segments have been able to endure the changing of the tides much better than others. In conclusion, it seems that the strategies to overcoming this downward trend is differentiating products and business practices and providing the support to vendors in order to sustain relationships. Transparency is a word commonly used today, and it is that flow of communication and information that will help businesses on all sides understand one another better in an effort to help each other overcome the current circumstances. WORLD MARKET CENTER WINTER 2009.
Photo by Vincent Perozzi.
Three buildings, with one over 16 floors, World Market
Center Las Vegas serves host to the home furnishing industry this
week. From beautiful architecture to unparalleled industry service,
the World Market Center is truly setting the trend on how to serve an
industry that is based on
There are many education segments throughout this week. Some sessions to look forward to include a panel discussion on the 2009 year in anticipation and the monitoring of long-term trends in a fragmented market. As companies showcase newly designed items, other companies import the most exciting products found around the world. It is the number one question, "Who will find and get the products first? Who will be the one to showcase these products before anyone else?" Many exhibitors continue to discuss the differences between the World Market Center in Las Vegas and its chief competitor, the High Point Showroom in North Carolina. Many believe that the Las Vegas venue helps diversify the home furnishing market. The opening of the World Market Center has allowed companies to either display on the west coast or east coast or even both. Logistically, some companies find that displaying at one venue is more convenient for their business. For the future, all views and opinions point to a positive for the Las Vegas venue. In a city that is known for setting trends and being a leader of innovation, it can be anticipated that the World Market Center will continue to enjoy the expansion and dominance in the home furnishing industry. WORLD MARKET CENTER
WINTER 2009.
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[1.02.10] Heat
Factory Introduces New Heated Helmet
Balaclava
Heat Factory is
the Original North American Warmer Company. Beginning back in 1980, the
woman-owned enterprise specializes in providing warmth and pain relief to
retail channels across the globe.
Image courtesy of Heat Factory. [10.26.09] Day 6 Outdoors' Flat-Out Feeder Simplifies Feeding  The Day 6
Flat-Out Feeder is a speedy, hassle-free option for feeding the wildlife
on one's property. As the company's goals are to take necessary
activities and to help simplify them as a means to simplify one's life,
the Flat-Out Feeder is a self-containing product that not only eliminates
a lot of maintenance, but also reduces any human scent associated with the
feeder.
The Flat-Out Feeder uses no batteries or motors, it's a simple fill of up to 250 pounds of feed and it's gravity fed design automatically dispenses the necessary amount of feed. The product was designed to make for easy transportation on any ATV or on any racks. With a weight of less than 50 pounds, any one person can easily transport and set up the feeder in remote areas. The
waist-high pouring height also makes for a safe refill for any one.
There are no ladders to climb and no incessant injuries from lifting bags
of feed to a high level. ES Robbins Introduces Design and Signature Chairmats and Deskpads
ES Robbins Corporation, with over 40 years of experience as the
leading manufacturer in the United States of chairmats and deskpads, will
launch its latest lines of Design and Signature decorative surface-saving
solutions for commercial and home offices at Las Vegas Market. WSA: Z-Coil® Pain Relief Shoes are Function Forward
While trying to find the balance between functionality and fashion friendly, 13-year old shoe company Z-CoiL finds that mastering foot care and injury prevention will always be its number one goal. "We are debuting new styles at WSA, but every shoe that we design must have our key ingredients which are our patented built-in orthotic, forefoot cushioning, heel coil, heel pad, and flex line and rocker bottom," says sales account manager Mark Molina. Z-CoiL finds itself at the forefront of being the ally to insurance companies. "Insurance companies are contacting us about worker's compensation and how our shoes help prevent injuries to workers who spend the majority of their shift on their feet," explains national sales manager Paul Hopkins. People who suffer from painful foot conditions such as heel spurs and plantar fasciitis can finally allow their conditions to approve with Z-CoiL's technology. "The rigidness in our shoes is what gives your feet the support that it needs. Shoes that bend at the soles don't give enough support. We also custom fit our shoes to each person. We train all of our vendors and distributors to analyze how a person walks and then an adjustment is made to the coil that compliments their foot," says Molina. "For this reason, we don't sell shoes over the Internet right now because we want to make every fit a custom fit." Z-CoiL continues to design more shoes that fit the everyday lifestyle. From running shoes to men's dress shoes, the company is quickly integrating itself into the lifestyle of a typical working person. One can wear Z-CoiLs to a business meeting, while also enjoying a different pair for construction. "We even have a cowboy boot which has become extremely popular. For people that already have foot pain, they quickly realize how much impact Z-CoiLs take off of their feet, and for people that don't have foot pain, they want to prevent any future foot pain," says Molina. Photo courtesy
of Z-CoiL.
Groundbreaking
Dermaquest skin therapy
searches the world to find
state-of-the-art ingredients Led by award winning
cosmeceutical chemist, Sam Dhatt,has been formulating skin care products
for 20 years. As President and CEO of DermaQuest, Dhatt is in a
constant worldwide search for the newest and best ground breaking
ingredients for his products. DermaQuest releases some of their latest
technology of ingredients: Actifirm TS: Increases skin firmness and
reduces fine lines and wrinkles. A blend of two standardized extracts-
Hydrocoytyl and Coneflower Extract. Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA): 400 times stronger
than Vitamin C. Repairs skin cells, known as the "universal
antioxidant" due to its ability to fight free radicals both outside
and inside the cell membranes as well as inside the cell. DMAE Complex: Naturally produced chemical
in the human brain, it aids with tone, texture, flexibility and resiliency
of muscles. Working in conjunction with ALA, it enhances
antioxidant activity. DermaQuest's enhanced product lines concentrate
on Age Management, Acne Management, Therapeutic Care, and Professional
Care. Photo courtesy of
DermaQuest. IECSC 2009. Utilizing silver, a known natural antimicrobial,
Wolf-Gordon introduces Vescom Textural Embosses 03 with 16 new
vibrantly colored textures for the wall. The wall covering material
is made with Silvadur TMTechnology - a
silver-based antimicrobial agent that uses a patented delivery system to
transport and secure silver to a wall's surface.
WIth the ever importance of creating and sustaining clean
environments in the hospitality industry, these product innovations give a
sigh of relief, given that the wall covering treatment is proven to kill
99.999999% of most bacteria. Silvadur's creator, Vescom + Silver in partnership with Rohm
and Haas, has put them in a class of their own as a global pioneer in
innovative technologies. President of Vescom America, Joe Berasi,
says,"WIth the rising concern about safety and "superbugs," we hope that
Vescom + Silver will provide peace of mind for
consumers." HD EXPO 2009. Photo by
Vincent Perozzi.
A cause that is near to the hearts of many is breast cancer research and prevention because everyone has an influential woman in their life. For this very reason, I Choose founder and President Matt Viarengo has dedicated a product line of clothing where sales directly benefit the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF), an organization founded by Evelyn Lauder. The theme of I Choose is empowerment and the philosophy of the company is to embark on philanthropic efforts. With apparel slogans helping the youth of today declare their passion, I Choose has currently chosen five popular passions of young girls and boys today in which to display on current designs. For young girls, apparel slogans include "I Choose Gymnastics" and "I Choose Cheerleading." For young boys, apparel slogans include "I Choose Baseball" and "I Choose Football." While this budding company continues its journey from its inception one year ago, Viarengo has an unlimited flow of ideas for product line expansions to encompass an even broader scope of the youth today. Most striking is the "I Choose to Fight" breast cancer apparel. Containing a line of shirts, t-shirts, and hats, the displayed slogan of "Early Detection Is The Key" resonates with positivity and hope. For all youth apparel that is sold, $0.50 is donated to children's juvenile cancer charities with emphasis on children's hospitals. For the breast cancer line of apparel, $0.50 of every item sold will be donated to the BCRF, where $0.85 of every dollar donated goes directly to breast cancer research and awareness programs. In true dedication to their philathropic efforts, I Choose has no cap on amounts donated. Photo courtesy of I
Choose.
Can artistry be taught or is it an ingrained gene that runs rich
through the foundations of one's roots? When in the presence of world
renowned and acclaimed artist Shlomi Haziza of H. Studio, it takes a
moment to grasp the ingenuity of his creations. The complexities of acrylic and
steel bending, morphed into shapes of discovery, curiosity, and
imagination, yet still possessing simple beauty in the end. It's the ideas of intertwining colors and materials that run rampant in the mind of Haziza. When asked of his motivations as a designer, he is quick to correct that he is an artist. Indeed, he is correct; for a designer collaborates objects to make an ensemble, while an artist truly stretches the imagination to provoke thoughts and wonders, creating an emotional attachment to his art.
Skilled in many disciplines of art, Haziza's collection provides a piece for every part of a room. From rugs, shelves, dining sets to large sofas, beds, and free standing sculptures and wall art, Haziza's passion for creating eminently illuminates through his spirit. Through his company H. Studio, creations derived from acrylic and steel grace the showroom floors and walls, while hand painted art and uniquely created furniture sets the tone for this ultra chic and cutting edge company.
Growing up in a family of artists, Haziza is the only one to not have been formally trained. At fifteen years old, he had already established his artistic footprints in his creations of painting sea stones. In 1991, H. Studio was born in a small art studio; today, the gallery has grown to include over 30,000 square feet of show space.
New from H. Studio this year includes SteelLife, a collection of large scale steel and acrylic sculptures for both indoors and outdoors. H. Studio provides a process of customization for these pieces. From design to delivery, ideas are conceived and translated into digital three-dimensional models. Space requirements and installation guidelines are analyzed before fabrication begins. These handmade sculptures are then carefully assembled according to specifications laid out during the design process.
Other unique pieces offered by H. Studio include pedestals, tables, upholstery, accessories, sculptures, and custom work. The beauty of art is the uniqueness that each handmade piece projects. Haziza offers customers the opportunity for customization in already designed pieces. Color changes are offered to allow everyone to make each piece of art “their own.”
With the incredible success of H. Studio's 17 years of existence,
perhaps the most striking aspect of the entire operation is not even the
work itself, but the one who started it all. The charisma in which
owner Haziza approaches the explanations and sharing of his art is
captivating. It is abundantly
clear that his passion for pushing the envelope in cutting edge art runs
through his veins. He is
changing the history of art with every piece that materializes from his
mind and hands. It is
genuinely clear that art is a love that radiates from his
soul.
Photo by Vincent Perozzi.
Much of the points discussed today at the World Forum have been reiterated over the past year. Moderated by Lloyd Princeton, with panelists Sims Bray of Veranda magazine, Mark Cutler of Mark Cutler Designs Los Angeles, Katherine Stout of Williams Sonoma, and Jenna Hall of Aspen Home, perspectives were given on the past year as well as advice on how to rise to the occasion for this year. Veranda publisher Sims Bray commented on how there is an over saturation in the magazine industry today. With over 4,000 magazines available on the shelves, it is a necessity for certain publications to exit the market while the stronger enduring magazines that serve a large readership remain. Acclaimed designer Mark Cutler began to anticipate a change in the market climate well before the casualties of competitors were seen. It was a priority to build cash reserves while positions such as accounting were outsourced. Therefore, payroll expenses were reduced for positions that did not require a full time individual who would require full benefits. Cutler said, "The slower the business, the harder we worked." He reached out to Hollywood connections that would lead to recession proof clients in the industry. Asked how he continued to market his company in slower times, Cutler said, "Make long lasting impressions in your marketing and positioning." Even down to acknowledging the birthday of a client's child, Cutler continued, "You never know when something will come your way. The cheapest client is the one you already have." VP of Business Development for Williams Sonoma, Katherine Stout is proud of how her company has operated with little or no debt in the seven years she has been a part of the team. While it is imperative to know your competition, Stout also reminds that it is important to "create synergy with who you may deem as competitors." Williams Sonoma is carefully positioning itself for when the market turns around, as everyone agrees in due time will. Stout focuses on figuring out the right marketing mix. Listening to customer feedback and conducting events where people can come and give their input. At the end of the day, Stout asks the question, "How do we market value to our customers?" Williams Sonoma continues to define who their customers are and what they come to expect from their store. Considered an icon in the industry, Jenna Hall of Aspen Home provided a slew of detailed messages during the panel discussion. While she, too, reiterates the need for preparing for the time of recovery, she is keen on companies spending their time on brand image and product development. When asked what companies can do today to get their brand known, Hall recommends reaching out to the community and lending a hand. The connections made through volunteering with non-profits can come back tenfold. Stout sees the web and internet as a direct path to consumers. Over the one hour panel discussion, a few messages are clear. Prepare your company today for the recovery of tomorrow. Value your customers by getting to know their needs, wants, and present circumstances. Operate your company effectively through outsourcing duties that do not need to be full-time. Lastly, and most importantly, to stay positive because every company feels the pinch of today's economy. |
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The 
The 
Producing a product for the value conscious family, the 
Just introduced to the market, Heat Factory’s Heated Helmet
Balaclava is a fleece head gear that can be complemented by the company’s
chemical warmers which can be added to the pockets at the ears, chest, and
the back of the neck.
