Cookware Manufacturers Association's Podcast

In this episode, join host Fran Groesbeck as she has a conversation with Damien Dodane, President of CRISTEL USA, and Julien Djadane, Managing Director of CRISTEL USA, to explore the fascinating background of CRISTEL, a renowned French cookware brand known for its revolutionary cooking system and unwavering commitment to quality. During this episode, you will have the opportunity to delve into the rich history of CRISTEL, a multi-generational family business that has stood the test of time. Discover the origins of this esteemed brand and gain insight into how their legacy has shaped their approach to crafting exceptional cookware. You'll be inspired by CRISTEL's values and their dedication to creating a positive environmental impact. Learn about their sustainable practices and initiatives. Innovations with unique designs in their stainless steel cookware, like removable handles for efficient storage, have really set them apart in the industry. During the conversation, there's a reveal of the latest product line. Listen to the entire episode to learn more about CRISTEL's story and their world of exceptional cookware that combines tradition, innovation, and a dedication to excellence.

Host, Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with David Trigiani, Managing Director of Ekco Brands LLC, who shares his insights on introducing a new brand to the US market. David talks about the challenges of entering a new market and the importance of understanding consumer needs and building a strong brand identity. Ekco Brands is the United States marketing arm of Vasconia Brands of Mexico City, Mexico. Vasconia Brands is the leading manufacturer and distributor of cookware and non-electric food prep items in Mexico and broader Latin America. Vasconia features vertical integration and has a factory capacity to make over 150,000 pans per day, making us one of the largest manufacturers of cookware in North America. The Vasconia brand has been in the market in Mexico for over 100 years and carries very high, top-of-mind brand awareness. The Ekco brand has been in the market for over 70 years in Mexico and is one of the largest cookware brands in Mexico today. They manufacture aluminum nonstick (both roller and spray coated), uncoated aluminum, stovetop pressure cookers, enamel on steel, and even disposable aluminum foil pans. In the USA, Ekco leverages its well-known brands for the Hispanic market as well as having numerous supply chain advantages. Conversation Highlights: Discussion about naming the company and the brand recognition in the US and Mexico markets Importance of market expertise when entering a new market Advantages of nearshoring and diversifying supply chains David's decision to join the CBA and involvement in the sustainability subcommittee Connect with Ecko Brands LLC: Website: www.ekcobrands.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-trigiani-99a52717/

Mike Otterman, the CEO of Lodge Cast Iron and host Fran Groesbeck discussed the history of Lodge Cast Iron and their contributions to the industry, such as adding seasoning to cast iron cookware. Since 2019, Mike Otterman has served as CEO & President of Lodge Cast Iron. Mike has over 25 years of experience in the Housewares and Outdoor industries. Together with a strong leadership team and the support of Lodge shareholders and employees, he has helped continue the company's proud legacy, culture, and category leadership. Otterman spoke about Lodge's commitment to their employees and the community, including the National Cornbread Festival and the Lodge Museum of Cast Iron. As a board member of the CBA, Otterman highlighted the benefits of membership, including networking and the opportunity to push forward engineering standards. The podcast episode also touched on the CBA's update of their strategic plan and the importance of honoring tradition while also moving forward. Lodge Cast Iron has been making heirloom-quality cookware and accessories since 1896. They operate two foundries and a distribution center in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, their home since the very beginning. Backed by over 125 years of experience, each piece of Lodge cookware is crafted for durability and versatility. Today, you can find Lodge products in leading retailers around the world or directly through their website and four retail locations. The episode also touched on the CBA's update of their strategic plan and the importance of honoring tradition while also moving forward. Connect with Lodge Cast Iron: Website: https://www.lodgecastiron.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lodgecastiron/ Sign up for Lodge Cast Iron's latest updates: https://www.lodgecastiron.com/email-signups

Interview with Melanie Schubert, Senior Technical Manager, Piyush Shah, Lab Manager, and Scott Nesson, Director of Sales and Business Development, for a conversation that celebrates SGS Testing Labs' membership, contributions to the industry and community, and dedication to creating safe consumer products.

Interview with Bill and Nancy McHenry

In this episode of What's Cooking with the CBA, host Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with Kris Malkoski, CEO, of Home Solutions and Writing at Newell Brands. You may not be familiar with the name “Newell Brands,” but chances are you have many of their products in your home. Kris shares how Rubbermaid's new innovative product, DuraLite Bakeware came to market and the rigorous testing it went through as it was being developed. She also gives insight into Calphalon's new products and its recycling program with TerraCycle. Kris has been an international business leader for more than 30 years as CEO, COO, President and VP/GM in public and private branded CPG and Hardlines companies. She is seen as a strategic change leader and has successfully grown, transformed, or integrated brands and companies to drive meaningful revenue and profits. She is currently managing global iconic brands including Rubbermaid, Calphalon, Ball, Food Saver, Sharpie, Papermate, Expo, and Elmer's Glue. She has driven significant (+30%) revenue and operating income growth, despite COVID headwinds including inflation, labor, and supply challenges. As a member of the Newell Executive Team, Kris oversees $4.4 billion in revenues and over 17,000 employees. Newell Brands is a $10B company with over 29,000 employers, with brands sold around the globe. Newell's brands are found in 100M US households and include icons like Elmers, Expo, Papermate, Sharpie, Parker, Dymo, Ball, Calphalon, Rubbermaid, FoodSaver, Crockpot, Mr. Coffee, Oster, Sunbeam, Yankee Candle, Woodwick, Rubbermaid Commercial, Graco, Coleman, Contigo, and Marmot. Newell is heavily committed to investing back into the communities where its employees live and work. In 2021, through Newell's Charitable Giving Foundation, Newell set a goal to provide $88M in product donations and over $1M in local grant programs over the next 5 years to support employee efforts to give back. Globally Newell supports several programs including The Nature Conservancy, No Kid Hungry, and Feed the Children Connect: Newell Brands Website: https://www.newellbrands.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/newellbrands/ Instagram: https://cookwareandbakeware.org/members/newell-brands/instagram.com/newellbrands/ Calphalon Corp Website: https://www.calphalon.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Calphalon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calphalon/ Rubbermaid Website: https://www.rubbermaid.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RubbermaidFoodStorage Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rubbermaid/

Host Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with Ken Manninen, President of Alliance Manufacturing, Inc. Incorporated in 1994 in Fond du Lac, WI, Alliance Manufacturing, Inc. specializes in the conceptual design, engineering, and manufacturing of industrial parts washers and parts cleaning systems. Their engineers have developed a full line of water-based aqueous parts cleaning systems. Their goal is to help customers help solve cleaning challenges. Many times, the last thing that manufacturers seem to think about is the cleaning of manufacturing parts. Challenges arise in particular in the manufacturing of cookware and bakeware to ensure the cleanliness of the substrate for proper adherence to coatings. In their conversation, Ken shares the history of the company, some custom projects that helped in the manufacturing of cookware and bakeware, plus the contributions made in their community. Additional Resources: https://www.alliancemfginc.com/ sales@alliancemfginc.com

Fissler is a 6th generation family-owned company and is internationally known for producing premium cookware Made in Germany. Distributed via premium retailers throughout the world, Fissler is the market leader in Germany, as well as a major market player in Korea, Japan, and China. The company took direct control of the US markets two years ago and is determined to share Fissler's award-winning Made in Germany quality, design, and innovation with more Americans. Now warehousing in Charlotte NC, the company is well placed to deliver inventory to premium kitchen retailers within 2-5 days. In this What's Cooking with the CBA episode, host Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with  Fissler's Managing Director USA, James McArdle. James is an experienced consumer product executive skilled in sustainably building premium brands. He has held executive US management positions with global brands such as Tumi, L'Occitane, and Stokke. In their conversation, James highlights the history Fissler, its dedication to quality, the company's global journey, and its presence in the US. Fissler is very much customer focused and had decided long ago to stick to its core range of products and continue to find ways to bring their customer base what they want, when they want it, and how they want it. Listen to learn more about CBA member, Fissler. Additional Resources: Fissler James McArdle LinkedIn

June 1922 was the official formation of the association we now know as the Cookware and Bakeware Alliance. This year, 2022, marks a new name, a new look, and new member benefits to continue its long-standing mission of supplying the industry with standards, connections, and solutions. We are currently in the midst of our year-long 100th Anniversary Celebration. The alliance wouldn't be here today without the hard work of its members, board, and managing directors. Today, host & current managing director of the CBA, Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with former managing directors, Penny Rosema and Hugh Rushing. Together, Fran, Penny & Hugh bring to the table over 30 years of managing director experience. In this episode, they pull the curtain back on the CBA as they share stories and their unique perspectives as to what managing such a long-standing organization is really like.

June 1922 was the official formation of the association we now know as the Cookware and Bakeware Alliance. 2022 marks a new name, a new look, and new member benefits to continue its long-standing mission of supplying the industry with standards, connections, and solutions. We are currently in the midst of our year-long 100th Anniversary Celebration. The alliance wouldn't be here today without the hard work of its members, board, and managing directors. Today, host & current managing director of the CBA, Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with former managing director, Hugh Rushing. Hugh shares more details of the history of the CBA as well as the inside perspective of his 25 years of experience in his leadership role with the CBA. By understanding the CBA's history and hearing the events and perspectives that shaped the association, you can truly appreciate the longevity and look forward to how the future of the industry will evolve in a collaborative manner.

In this Stronger Together Series episode, host, Fran Groesbeck, has a conversation with PPG's North American Marketing Manager, Suzie Eberhardt.  Suzie has been in the cookware and bakeware industry for 10 years. Over the years, she's not only seen some changes in the industry but she's also had some big changes in her personal life. Listen as Suzie and Fran discuss topics related to the need for a different work-home life balance and how innovative ideas are generated through openness to listening to others' perspectives.  About CBA Member:  PPG Founded in 1883 as Pittsburgh Plate Glass by Captain John B. Ford and John Pitcairn in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Today, PPG is a global supplier of paints, coatings, optical products, and specialty materials. Through leadership in innovation, sustainability, and color, PPG helps customers in industrial, transportation, consumer products, and construction markets and aftermarkets to enhance more surfaces in more ways than does any other company.

The CBA supplies the industry with standards, connections, and solutions. Formally known as the Cookware Manufacturers Association, at the beginning of 2022, the name had officially changed to the Cookware & Bakeware Alliance, or the CBA. Making the change wasn't done overnight. There was a lot that went into making the change. There was a lot of thought and many meetings to flesh out just the right words to rebrand the organization to align with its mission. CBA Managing Director, Fran Groesbeck, along with Tom Mirabile, Principal & Founder of Springboard Futures and Leann Schwarzkopf, Founder and Owner of Project Partners Network formed a team to uncover the new name of the organization to take it into the future. In today's episode, you'll hear the round-table discussion with Fran, Tom, and Lee Ann as they share the process of coming up with the new name…Cookware & Bakeware Alliance. Additional Resources: Tom Mirabile | Springboard Futures Lee Ann Schwarzkopf | Project Partners Network CBA Membership Information

Founded in 1922 as the Aluminum Wares Association, the non-profit trade association has become the premier resource for the cookware and bakeware industry. In the 1970s, the name was changed to the Cookware Manufacturers Association (CMA) where a renewed mission of developing engineering standards for the betterment of the cookware and bakeware industry.   Over the last 100 years, the CMA has made changes to meet the times and industry requirements. There was a need to update the association's name to better reflect whom they represent and how they serve the industry. The CMA is now the Cookware & Bakeware Alliance.   Managing Director, Fran Groesbeck shares why changing the name was so important at this point in time and what to expect for the future of the CBA.   Resources Mentioned: Become a CBA Member Subscribe to Industry News Springboard | Future Focused Scrivener Solutions Project Partners Network

Supplier member PPG is featured in this edition of the What's Cooking Podcast. CMA's managing director Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with PPG's Marketing Communications Manager, Mike Petrasek, and Regional Color Design Manager, Vanessa Peterson. You'll learn what is taken into consideration when it comes to choosing colors for products in different industry segments. PPG's color of the year is revealed, and you'll hear how the color palette was picked and why. Follow along as Fran, Vanessa, and Mike flip through the 2022 Color Trend book and discuss the three color and trend directories and how each one tells its own story and has its own narrative and personality. PPG offers a complete line of non-stick and decorative coatings for housewares, designed to protect and extend the life of items like toasters, griddles, fry pans, irons and more. Additional Resources: Introducing PPG's 2022 Color of the Year: Olive Sprig 2022 PPG Color Trends 2022 Global Trends Book PPG Resource Materials

The housewares industry is full of wonderful and amazing companies and individuals. The Cookware Manufacturers Association has the privilege of having these incredible people as our members. As part of our Stronger Together series celebrating the diversity in our industry and how this makes us stronger, we celebrate the amazing people in our industry. We have so many great stories to share and people to celebrate. Emily Cappiello, President/Chief Content Officer of The Gourmet Insider shares her amazing story in this episode of the What's Cooking Podcast.  Being resilient means hitting problems and challenges life throws at you head-on. Standing taller and moving forward in the face of adversity easily describes Emily Cappiello. Recently, events occurred that Emily could have crumbled under or hit head-on. Guess which route she took? Join host Fran Groesbeck as we get to know this amazing woman and her resilience to keep moving forward!  

The CMA looks for new ways to share important market information. That is why we have partnered with Design Research to present CMA Members with the insight needed to navigate a Post-Covid World. Design Research is a market research and insights company that focuses on housewares and other products for the home. Design Research has a long history in these markets, servicing well over 100 world-class brands for the past 22 years. In this podcast, we will learn about How Best in Class Companies are Anticipating a Post-Covid World. How many times a day do you catch yourself thinking about where you were this month week or day in 2020?  What were you dealing with during the Pandemic?  What were you doing – or not doing – and what was going on in your business and personal life.   Life is resuming, but so many people, places, and things are still adapting to post covid life.  And the uncertainty is not over.  We still have spikes, variants, and vaccine dos and don'ts to deal with.  For your business, as you try to move forward, have the pandemic trends continued for your business?  What has changed?  How are you adapting?   How do you plan and predict the next steps after the unpredictable?  Today, host Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with Design Research's Vice President of Market Intelligence, Janine Michalek, and what they are doing to help understand the new consumer and the new marketplace. Additional Resources: Design Research Website Janine Michalek Market Research's Role in Today's Economy with Richard Babick | Podcast Design Research CMA Partner's Page | CMA Member Login Required    

The CMA looks for new ways to share important market information. That is why we have partnered with the Good Housekeeping Institute for a series of podcasts. GHI is driven by the same mission of providing vital information to make good buying decisions. GHI focuses on the testing and science behind houseware products reinforcing safety and regulations. In this episode, Nicole Papantoniou, Deputy Director, Kitchen Appliances & Technology Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute joins us. We learn about the testing conducted to find the top 7 best stainless steel cookware sets – but this is no ordinary best cookware list. Listen and see why. Additional Resources: 7 Best Stainless Steel Cookware Sets to Buy in 2021, According to Kitchen Experts The Good Housekeeping Institute Facebook Twitter Instagram  

The CMA looks for new ways to share important market information. That is why we have partnered with La Termoplastic FBM to present CMA Members with insight into the sustainability of cookware accessories and the push for this important topic in the industry overall. FBM is a world leader in the production of handles, knobs, and accessories for cookware. The company offers the market a vast catalog of its own items and produces exclusively on the specific needs of its customers. The undisputed quality of its cookware products is distinguished by the FBM trademark present on all its items. In this podcast, we learn about Sustainability in Cookware. Host Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with FBM's CCO-Sales Director, Paolo Canciani. Topics discussed: FBM's new line of sustainable handles and how other companies can contribute to the eco-friendly movement. Sustainability trends in the cookware industry. How a cookware manufacturer, brand owner, or retailer can develop a planet-friendly cookware collection. How you can add value to an eco-friendly concept of cookware through accessories. The benefits of recovering materials. Guest Contact Info: Website www.fbm.eu/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/latermoplastic/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/latermoplasticfbm/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/la-termoplastic-f-b-m-srl/

The CMA looks for new ways to share important market information – and what is more important in business than saving time and money? In this episode, host Fran Groesbeck is thinking outside the pan and exploring how leveraging metals science can save time and money. New efficiencies in all aspects of our market are key. Leveraging metals science sounds technical and complicated, but it's not. Our partner at Industrial Metallurgists, Michael Pfeifer, helps explore this new efficiency and how it will reduce component costs, solve quality problems faster, increase productivity and reduce risk. That's a recipe we can all in the cookware and bakeware industry can get on board with. Listen as Fran and Michael explore deeper into metals engineering. Additional Resource: Connect with Industrial Metallurgists, LLC on LinkedIn View CMA Partnership | Exclusive CMA Member Offer [login required]

The CMA looks for new ways to share important market information. That is why we have partnered with La Termoplastic F.B.M. to present CMA Members with insight into the trends of cookware accessories. F.B.M. is a world leader in the production of handles, handles, knobs, and accessories for cookware. The company offers the market a vast catalog of its own items and produces exclusively to the specific needs of its customers. The undisputed quality of its cookware products is distinguished by the FBM trademark present on all its items. Host Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with F.B.M.'s Marketing Manager Giorgia Munari, to explore and learn about the Market Trends of Cookware Accessories. Connect with Guest: La Termoplastic F.B.M. website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn 

The CMA looks for new ways to share important market information. That is why we have partnered with Impact Innovations to present CMA Members with an innovative process for metal coating with great mechanical properties. Impact Innovations (Headquarters located in Germany) has 20+ years of experience in Cold Spray Technology. Along with being a global technology leader in High-Pressure Cold Spray Equipment for industrial applications. In this podcast, we learn about Cold Spray Technology. Join host, Fran Groesbeck as she has a conversation with Sascha Bernhardt with Impact Innovations as they explore how Cold Spray Technology works, the advantages, and the recent developments that have given this application a boost.  

Whether you are just starting to explore your way around the kitchen or you are an experienced foodie, what you cook with is as personal as what you cook.  Everyone had different preferences, from the substrate to how heavy or light the pan is – handle, wall height, induction base, glass vs steel lid and so many other features that are a very personal choice.  No two pans are alike as no two chefs. The CMA looks for new ways to share important market information. That is why we have partnered with the Good Housekeeping Institute for a series of podcasts. GHI is driven by the same mission of providing vital information to make good buying decisions.  GHI focuses on the testing and science behind houseware products reinforcing safety and regulations. In this podcast, we learn about the testing conducted to find the top 10 nonstick cookware sets – but this is no ordinary top 10 list. When you look up top lists, often it gives you a ranking from top to bottom, but it doesn’t take into account the individual differences and preferences.  That is where the Good Housekeeping Institute comes in – they approach product evaluation in a more meaningful way.  Nicole Papantoniou, Deputy Director, Kitchen Appliance & Technology Lab at GHI joins host, Fran Groesbeck to explore their methods and findings with non-stick cookware.

The housewares industry is full of wonderful and amazing companies and individuals.  The Cookware Manufacturers Association has the privilege of having these incredible people as our members.  As part of our “Stronger Together” series that celebrates the diversity in our industry and how this makes us stronger.  In this episode, host Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with Valerie Longs, Vice President of Purchasing at Instant Brands. Valerie has over 40 years of global experience in sourced goods, of which 20 years has been in the housewares industry. She is extremely knowledgeable regarding corporate merchandising, sourcing, buying, product development, retail sales, merchandising, and operations. Valerie shares stories about her professional journey and how the housewares industry has evolved over the years. She is driven to optimize supplier contributions to the business. With excellent executive team-building experience, she is willing to accept roles within the organization that strategically lead to success. She builds global quality assurance programs and creates Asia-based quality control systems. She gives insight into what has inspired her through the years for a successful career.

It takes all shapes and sizes to make a complete cookware collection. There are wonderful stories of chefs from around the world who collect pieces from independent shops to garage sales. Because it is all about the perfect piece for the perfect dish. Every design line, dimension and feature adding to the beauty and functionality of the piece. Do you know there are differences between a sauté pan, a fry pan, a skillet and a crepe pan? They may all look the same, but there are subtle differences that make them unique. There is so much history behind every shape of cookware – today we explore the Dutch Oven – one of the most versatile pieces. It has a unique story to share. Providing important and interesting product knowledge is one of our key focuses at the CMA. That is why we have partnered with the Good Housekeeping Institute for a series of Podcasts. GHI is driven by the same mission of providing vital information to make good buying decisions. GHI focuses on the testing and science behind houseware products reinforcing safety and regulations. In this podcast, we learn about a unique but important item in any houseware’s assortment or kitchen – the Dutch Oven. Listen as host, Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with Nicole Papantoniou, GHI’s Deputy Director, Kitchen Appliances & Technology Lab, to learn about the Dutch Oven’s historic and interesting shape.

The Cookware Manufacturers Association has the privilege of having incredible people as our members.  In this What’s Cooking with the Cookware Manufacturing Association episode, we are kicking off our Women in Housewares series in celebration of women’s history month. Host Fran Groesbeck has a conversation with Senior Principal Engineer of Amway, Sue Hoff, and the Transitioning Managing Director of the CMA, Penny Rosema to discuss their journey in the cookware industry. They share insights on how they moved up the ranks in the housewares industry and give advice on what they had learned as they achieved their milestones. Do you know the story of Rosalind Franklin? In 1962, three men received the Nobel Prize for their work on DNA. Not so surprisingly, a fourth member of the team went unacknowledged: the woman whose data and photographs led to their discovery. Essentially erased from scientific history, Rosalind Franklin was a focused and bright young scientist who was determined to make her presence known. What about Brownie Wise?  The original girl boss, Brownie Wise capitalized on postwar optimism to build an empire that has made its way into every home in America. Though she did not invent Tupperware, she elevated it from random accessory to a suburban must-have by hosting parties that demonstrated its use. As sales soared, she became the first woman to appear on the cover of Business Week. These stories are examples of the power of women in industry.  In honor of women’s history month, and to kick off this new series, listen in as we shine the light on two incredible women in our industry and our association, Sue Hoff of Amway and Penny Rosema of the CMA.

The mission of the CMA keeps consumer safety at the forefront of all we do.  That’s why we have partnered with the Good Housekeeping Institute for a series of podcasts. GHI is driven by the same mission of providing vital information to make good buying decisions.  GHI focuses on the testing and science behind houseware products reinforcing safety and regulations.  In this episode, we learn about the testing conducted to answer the question – is nonstick cookware safe?  Nicole Papantoniou, Deputy Director, Kitchen Appliances & Technology Lab joins host, Fran Groesbeck, as they discuss the expert findings of putting nonstick cookware to the test. Highlighted test findings: Safe when used, as long as they aren’t overheated. If overheated, the fumes that may be formed will not be enough to make you sick. If chipped and ingested, it will pass through the body without being absorbed or any ill effect. PFOA has been completely phased out from the manufacturing of cookware. When it was used, there was no risk to consumers as it was driven out in the manufacturing process. Connect with Guest: Nicole Papantoniou, Deputy Director, Kitchen Appliances & Technology Lab Article: In Nonstick Cookware Safe? Here's Everything You Need to Know, According to Experts The Good Housekeeping Institute Website: goodhousekeeping.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GOODHOUSEKEEPING Twitter: https://twitter.com/goodhousemag Instagam: https://instagram.com/goodhousekeeping YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GoodHousekeeping?sub_confirmation=1

A major bonus with technology is connection. Through technology, we can learn about our customers and connect with them like never before. In this episode, host Fran Groesbeck explores trends in digital technology. She has a conversation with guests Michael Jaskulsky and Chris Bartling leads in new business development with Undigital. Learn where technology is headed, what to watch for, and what not to miss when it comes to the cookware and bakeware industry. Connect with Undigital Website: https://undigital.com/ LinkedIn Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/undigital/ Michael Jaskulsky: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeljaskulsky/ Chris Bartling: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-bartling-2859467/

Since 1922, the Cookware Manufacturers Association has promoted excellence in manufacturing, service, consumer protection, health and safety of industry workers, and appropriate stewardship of environmental resources. For many years, the CMA published voluntary cookware and bakeware engineering standards. A 107-page manual that covers all aspects of material testing, minimum gauges, standard sizes, capacities, and so much more. Join Fran Groesbeck as she has a conversation with Henry Lodge of Lodge Cast Iron, as they explore the importance of the standards to the cookware and bakeware industry. You’ll discover how association members, who are known competitors, come together for the betterment of the entire industry. Listen as you’ll learn Henry’s 40+ year experienced perspective about the CMA Engineering Standards, how they have evolved over the years, and the impact they have in the industry. Additional Resources: CMA membership includes a copy of the Engineering Standards for Cookware & Bakeware. Non-members may purchase a copy by following this link: https://cookware.org/engineering-standards/order-manual/ To learn more about CMA membership, visit: https://cookware.org/join/

The Pandemic brought about so many challenges, some of which have revealed new strengths and services. It was no different for HomeWorld Business when they were faced with how to report on their annual Top Housewares Retailer Report. HWB, partnering with NPD, quickly responded to the challenge and created a new report that provided even more themes and market dynamics important to be aware of in these changing times. HWB and NPD are great examples of taking on the challenges that COVID presented and finding a new way forward. In this podcast, our guests are Peter Gianetti and Mike Duff, from HomeWorld Business and Joe Derochowski from NPD Group. Peter is the Editor-in-Chief of HWB and Mike is the Executive Editor. Joe is the Vice President & Industry Advisor for Home. You will learn how this new reporting format came about, insights into trends revealed by this report, how the shift of Prime Day impacted our industry, and other retail market insights. This is one you won’t want to miss. Additional Resources: HomeWorld Business NPD Top 50 Housewares Retailers

Richard Babick, President of Design Research, LLC joins host, Fran Groesbeck as they discuss market research and the role it plays in today’s economy. In a time when retail opportunities are shrinking due to the pandemic and the rapid transition to online selling, market research is more important than ever. The buying patterns of consumers are evolving. It’s much more economical to discontinue an investment in a product that consumers don’t want than it is to take it all the way through the expense of tooling, manufacturing, packaging, and shipping only to have it fail in the marketplace. What previously made sense on a shelf next to a successful product may not work today because your product may not be on a shelf anymore. There’s always a risk of product failure. In this episode, learn how quantitative and qualitative research can provide some insurance against product failure. Additional Resources: Design Research, LLC Richard Babick | LinkedIn

International Regulatory, Trade Policy and Global Strategy Professional, Tonya Kemp joins host Penny Rosema as they discuss why U.S. cookware and bakeware manufactures should pay attention to ECHA (European Chemicals Agency) and REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals) and how policy in regards to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have changed globally. Tonya has worked in Washington, DC for more than 25 years. She has worked with US government officials and members of Congress on various issues ranging from free trade agreements to regulatory policy. After working for both trade associations and the private sector, Tonya has branched out on her own to use her broad experience to help provide insight and strategic guidance to companies needing help understanding developing global regulatory environments that could have an impact on the category of consumer goods. Listen and learn what you as a CMA member can do to when it comes to staying current with proposed legislation and how to proactively educate the consumer. Additional Resources: Connect with Tonya Kemp on LinkedIn European Chemicals Agency Perfluoroalkyl chemicals (PFAS) | European Chemicals Agency Understanding REACH | European Chemicals Agency HR 6395 William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021  

The Spoon’s publisher, Michael Wolf joins host Penny Rosema as they discuss interesting advances happening in terms of technology coming into the kitchen. An acceleration of online shopping experience and services were realized due to Covid-19. Individuals who would have never considered using online technology to order groceries have found themselves learning the process out of necessity. Other trends Michael shares are personalization around nutrition and food storage systems to help with the reduction of food waste. Michael is also the founder of the Smart Kitchen Summit. It started in 2015 to focus on food technology and how it’s incorporated in the kitchen. He had an overwhelming feeling that there would be a large-scale reinvention in the way we cook. To help be a catalyst in the innovation, he felt it was a good idea to bring people together to talk about it. Partnerships and ideas have evolved through the event over the years. CMA members receive special offers for the 2020 Smart Kitchen Summit by going to the members area. Michael will be a featured speaker at the CMA 2020 Fall Member Meeting. Resources: Michael Wolf | LinkedIn The Spoon The Food Tech Show | Podcast Smart Kitchen Summit CMA Membership Discount for Smart Kitchen Summit Tickets | Login to Redeem Spoon Plus Membership

Join Penny Rosema as she interviews cookware industry expert Fran Groesbeck. COVID-19 has affected the economy in many ways driving different buying patterns. Learn how the trends show consumer concern of health and wellness goes much deeper than diet and exercise and into safety of products. Resource Links: Fran Groesbeck Ten Touch Creative Agency Facebook Instagram LinkedIn

Right now, you may be faced with working from home and aren't used to it. It can be very disorientating. Leading virtual teams can have its challenges. And, just like leading a team face-to-face...communication is key. Communication is the central piece that moves a project along and keeps your team unified to reach a common goal. You must be available to answer questions, to help problem solve, and to generally feel "connected" to your organization. In a traditional office setting, you're able to gather people up for a quick stand-up meeting, go to your coworker's office, or talk over the cubicle wall for a quick conversation. Leading and participating in a team virtually is no different. Communication is still key. It's just done a little differently. Gayla Scrivener, owner of Scrivener Solutions, guest hosts this CMA podcast episode. Gayla leads her virtual team to help clients with their value-based marketing. She helps small business owners grow their brand through teaching value-based marketing, small business strategy, and virtual team-building skills.  The biggest obstacle to overcome when it comes to working remotely is not becoming isolated. As a seasoned virtual assistant, Gayla shares her top tools she uses to stay connected and enhance communication. Top Resources: Zoom Slack Screencast-o-matic Loom Other Resources: Updated CMA Standards Now Available Instant Access for CMA Members Non-members may purchase a copy Gayla Scrivener Website Podcast Scrivener Solutions Accomplish More Tips Facebook LinkedIn

Peter Giannetti is the Editor IN Chief of HomeWorld Business and VP of Editorial & Publishing operations for ICD Publications.  Peter recently returned from Frankfurt Germany and the Ambiente show, the first global houseware show of the year that gives retailers an opportunity to get a good sense of the houseware industry.  In this interview, we asked Peter to share his experience at Ambiente and his insight on the Cookware and Bakeware sector and more. Resource Links: HomeWorld Business | Publication  The Inspired Home Show Ambiente

Amy Herman is a lawyer and art historian AND the guest speaker for the Cookware Manufacturers Association 2020 Annual Meeting. In this podcast, you'll hear about how she uses works of art to sharpen observation, analysis, and communication skills. By showing people how to look closely at painting, sculpture, and photography, she helps them hone their visual intelligence to recognize the most pertinent and useful information as well as recognize biases that impede decision making. Amy developed her Art of Perception seminar in 2000 to improve medical students' observation and communication skills with their patients when she was the Head of Education at The Frick Collection in New York City. She subsequently adapted the program for a wide range of professionals and leads sessions internationally for the New York City Police Department, the FBI, the French National Police, the Department of Defense, Interpol, the State Department, Fortune 500 companies, first responders, the military, and the intelligence community. Additional Resources: Artfulperception.com Amy Herman | Visual Intelligence |Talks at Google Registration Information CMA Meeting April 2020 – guest speaker Amy Herman Email: amy@artfulperception.com

Many cookware and bakeware manufacturers approach color by deciding if they want to launch new colors seasonally, annually, or even every 2 years. But is this the best strategy? Join Judy Baker Bauman, advisor and consultant specializing in the housewares industry as she shares color trends and strategies. Judy has managed color design and strategy for many successful product lines. She also holds a Board of Directors position with Color Marketing Group. CMG is the premier international association for color design professionals. Their mission is to create accurate and relevant color and trend forecast information by connecting global color professionals.  

Did you know Cookware Manufacturers Association started as the  Aluminum Wares Association back in 1922? In this interview with Hugh Rushing, former Executive Vice President of CMA shares the history of the cookware industry and the history of CMA. Taking a glimpse back in the past helps shape our future.

In this interview, Chad Moutray shares his expertise and insight on manufacturing economic indicators, consumer sentiment and spending, the impact of the strong US dollar for cookware and bakeware industry, and more. Chad is the Chief Economist for National Manufacturers Association.  You can find more information about the National Association of Manufacturers on their website NAM.org. Reference Links: National Association of Manufacturers Data and Research Join NAM Manufacturers Economic Outlook Presentation [download] Chad Moutray Twitter Email

NSF International is a global public health and safety organization that has developed safety and sanitation standards and certified products for the past 75 years.  In this interview learn more about what products earn certification, why third-party certification is important, and where to get more information.   Reference Links: Cookware.org Email: prosema@cookware.org NSF International | NSF.org Search under the drop-down menu under services by industry or by product type. Email: lyakas@nsf.org

Erika Sirimanne, Head of Home and Garden for Euromonitor joins us in this episode to discuss worldwide trends for the cookware and bakeware retail market. Erika manages home and garden research for Euromonitor globally, analyzing how key trends such as digitalization, urbanization, and the smart home are impacting homewares, home furnishings, home improvement, and gardening. You can find more information about Euromonitor at www.euromonitor.com or reach out to Erika via her email address erika.sirimanne@euromonitor.com.

Guest Issac Barker, RMS Supervisor in Security and Privacy Services with a specialty in cybersecurity and data forensic investigation will be a speaker at the CMA's 2019 Fall Meeting in September. Issac sits down with host Penny Rosema to discuss key issues that manufacturers need to be aware of when it comes to cybersecurity.

In today's episode, host, Penny Rosema, welcomes Michael Pfeifer, Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering, as they discuss the importance and impact of metallurgy on common business problems. Michael has spent the last 25 years helping companies design lower-cost products, solving manufacturing quality problems, and perform failure analysis on products. 

Mike Smith, a respected packaging industry veteran, shares his packaging material cost savings knowledge. Through his unique approach to sourcing and his CFO orientation, he’s saved tens of millions of dollars for his employers. If you would like to know more about mike - You can contact him directly at mikesmithcfosavings@gmail.com

Joe Compton owner & founding member of Freight Management LLC shares insight and information on freight management. What is the difference between 3PL reseller of freight rates, a broker and a freight management company? Did you know National Motor Freight Classification has changed several cookware item classifications? Listen to this podcast to learn more. Freight Management LLC website: frtmgt.com Phone: 205-307-8970 Important note: The association DOES NOT receive any compensation or monies from Freight Management LLC when CMA members participate in its programs. All benefits are applied directly to the manufacturer.

Join the conversation with Christopher Swift, partner at Foley & Lardner LLP, international law firm based in Washington DC as he discusses tarriffs, when they are applicable, and how they affect the distribution of cookware products.

You can follow Chad Moutray on twitter @chadmoutray and the Cookware Manufacturers Association is @CookwareMA

#006 HomeWorld Business Editor-in-Chief Peter Giannetti shares his insight on the housewares category from Ambiente in Frankfurt Germany

Why should cookware and bakeware manufacturers care about blockchain technology? In this podcast, Kate Delaney explains how the technology goes beyond application to cryptocurrency. Kate is a motivational speaker and a consultant. She helps companies understand trends and ways to positively pivot when the forecast warns it and to stay ahead of the curve with consumers and their brand. Will block chain technology be a significant disruptor? Have you heard about BlockLand Cleveland? Listen in on this conversation to learn more.

Join Penny Rosema as she interviews Joe Derochowski, Vice President and Industry Advisor for The NPD Group. Joe follows behavioral trends and has a unique perspective on what consumers do and why they do it. Joe has been helping manufacturers and retailers identify opportunities for growth for the past 30 years, whether through new innovations, new ways to market, new ways to sell and merchandise the products. Joe discusses the current trends for houseware sales.

Join host Penny Rosema as she has a conversation with Hugh Rushing, former Executive Vice President of CMA as they discuss the valuable tools and resources available to retailers in the cookware and bakeware market.