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Green Living at Homecrest Outdoor Living | Wadena, MN, September 2011 Homecrest's greatest accomplishment to date is the dependability of their products. Nothing is greener than creating furniture to withstand the test of time. In doing so, they save on energy, production materials and waste. Unlike many competitors, it is common to find Homecrest products that have been in use for 30-plus years because of their commitment to extending the life of your furniture with their Replacement Slings and Cushions program. Along with standing the test of time, Homecrest products are made from, shipped in and sent out in ways that are friendly to Mother Nature. Their frames are made of all recyclable materials (aluminum, steel and wrought iron), their cardboard cartons are designed in-house to fit the product's dimensions perfectly, and their chairs, chaises and tables are packed as multiple units to reduce waste in shipping. Removing environmental hazards from Homecrest's production process is just as important as creating products that are recyclable. This is why they have removed chromium; an EPA regulated substance, from their paint lines and has now focused on water-based techniques. Eliminating the use of chromium from their paint lines has also given them the ability to reduce their oven usage by 50 percent. Since Homecrest Outdoor Living is located in Wadena, they have to fight the cold Minnesota winters. By capturing warmth from their ovens, Homecrest have been able to reduce their carbon footprint by heating their factory with the reusable energy. Water from their cleaning and finishing systems is used to reduce VOC emissions and help to eliminate the use of hazardous chemicals for the safety of their workers and environment. Homecrest Outdoor Living has always met and exceeded EPA standards. The Homecrest Outdoor Living factory in Wadena, Minnesota has been converted to using nothing but high efficiency light bulbs that give 50 percent more light while using 50 percent less energy. This recent step represents the commitment Homecrest has to preserving the environment in every step of production. Wadena, MN has been home for the Homecrest Outdoor Living furniture manufacturer for nearly 60 years. In celebration of their 60th Anniversary in 2013, Homecrest is collecting its' Vintage Wire collection pieces, refurbishing them and putting them back in the market place for sale. Yes, you heard that right; Homecrest's Vintage Wire collection is still gracing the patios of many homes! How many outdoor furniture manufacturers can say that! Homecrest's Vintage Wire furniture is a 15 piece collection offering a small-scaled sofa and loveseat, barrel chairs, high back swivel rocker with ottoman, dining chairs, coffee tables and end tables. The scale is perfect for today's metro patios where space is at a premium. These pieces contain the Bottemiller swivel rocker mechanism, patented in 1956, that was the foundation of Homecrest's outdoor furniture line. For over ten years (1960-1970's) the all welded steel construction with smooth eight ball swivel bearings, time tested floating comfort rocker springs, roll away base, baked on enamel over bonderized steel was manufactured. With all of that said, no wonder it's still out there today! Just as old classic American cars have withstood the outdoor elements, so has Homecrest furniture. Homecrest can put claims to a truly 'green' story with the Vintage Wire collection. Now over 40 years old, Homecrest's Vintage Wire collection, has continually livened up patios all across the United States. They are proud to display the 'Made in the USA' tag on all of their durable collection pieces. All Vintage Wire sets will be authenticated and sold with a 'Certificate of Authenticity' as a 'Limited Edition' set. Be on the 'look out' if you own Homecrest's Vintage Wire collection, they may show up in your backyard asking to buy back their 40-year-old outdoor furniture.
This frame is constructed of custom aluminum extrusions with internal support structure for added durability and eliminates any possibility of moisture wicking. The cast feet are curved to create visual pleasure to the collection. 100% virgin vinyl straps are used for the base of the seat cushions and provide individualized comfort. The structure of the seat cushion consists of durable foam and is wrapped with polyester fiber that is encased with a water resistant ticking. The back cushion incorporates a 3-channel construction to provide lumbar support and shoulder comfort. It also prevents the shifting of the polyester fill material for lasting comfort and to maintain its' shape longer. These slipcovers are removable, cleanable, versatile and fade resistant. Bungalow's removable slipcovers are available in a large selection of fabrics. These fabrics are weather resistant and can be cleaned by applying mild soap and warm water to the fabric using a sponge or soft brush. After rinsing thoroughly the fabrics air dry quickly. Homecrest's Bungalow collection is offered in an armless dining chair, chat chair, swivel rock chat chair, loveseat, sofa and ottoman. This casual, but chic, collection is made for the outdoors but is classy enough for the indoor and is made in the USA. Homecrest's Mirage collection is offered in a high back dining chair, high back swivel rocker, swivel balcony stool, swivel rocker balcony stool and chaise lounge. Mirage is available in a sling, tri-sling and a new padded sling that is exclusive to the Mirage collection. These seating options make the perfect offering in both style and comfort. Mirage is available in a large selection of fashionable outdoor resilient fabrics and frame finishes. For selection ease, Homecrest's design team has hand selected fabrics and finishes and placed them in 15 unique Color Stories like Tuscan Retreat, Plum Crazy and American Classics, just to name a few. Acrylic chenille's, jacquards, boucles and many other interior-inspired textures add interest and fashion to Homecrest's beautiful and durable outdoor fabric offering. Designed in the tradition of outdoor furnishings, Legendary combines old world craftsmanship with comfort. Legendary Deep Seating is handsome, durable, and made to last a lifetime. Made of steel, this collection incorporates square stock and hammered arms. Legendary's unique styling will make a classic statement in any outdoor setting. A new table top introduction, exclusive to the Legendary collection,is Homecrest's authentic looking Faux Leather. Available in two colors, Mink and Tobacco, this handcrafted and truly gorgeous top offers the look of leather with the durability to withstand the outdoor environment. Homecrest's Legendary Faux Leather table tops will look stunning when paired with their large selection of chair fabrics and slings. This new collection of all-aluminum constructed tables features an attractive "slat-top" design in sizes and heights to accommodate every table need. Dockside offers a solid, stable platform to enhance your dining and entertaining experience. Dockside tables are not only exceptionally versatile, but are built for durability and ease-of-maintenance. The classic shapes used in the design of each Dockside table allows it to seamlessly blend with any style of seating – from classic traditional, to versatile transitional, to today's contemporary. Make a statement with Homecrest's new Dockside collection. Clean, modern edges and sleek styling are just a few words that come to mind when you see the Dockside table collection. If your outdoor space is limited, add a bench for extra seating without taking up additional space. These custom-crafted, hand-cast aluminum patio tables, dining tables and end tables add elegance to any outdoor setting. Homecrests' cast aluminum patio tables are easy to assemble. Pair with a cast aluminum end table and one of their patio umbrellas for an aluminum patio furniture solution that is both gracious and highly functional. Compare, and you'll discover Homecrests' cast aluminum patio tables, dining tables and end tables are the best-looking, toughest tables around.
The top is offered in Faux Granite, Sorrento, Tuscan or Sandstone. The base is composed of aluminum and is wrapped with a sling fabric to conceal the LP gas tank and hoses. This dazzling firepit is available in all 10 frame finishes and a large selection of sling fabrics for a totally custom look. Enjoy the ambiance of this balcony height Crystal Fire LP burner firepit. The gentle flame, fed by a standard LP gas tank, will sparkle and dance on a bed of clear glass rocks. Don't forget about Homecrest's Venturi Flame styled firepit. The Venturi Flame is available with a 24" x 24" Faux Granite table top making it the perfect fit for small intimate spaces. The Venturi Flame can be used in multiple areas of your outdoor space to effectively highlight any of Homecrests' Deep Seating collections. The patented technology of the Venturi Flame provides the enjoyment of fire with a new twist, simply light the gel fuel, place the glass cylinder over the flame and a beautiful dancing fire appears. Enjoy the evening sunsets or the final days of summer by adding the ambiance from one of Homecrests' firepits to your outdoor decor.
Steve has a distinguished furniture career with over 20 years experience at Woodard where he earned Salesman of the Year recognition. In addition he served Natuzzi Leather for 20 years as well where he grew his territory by over $20 million and was promoted to National Accounts Manager. Steve and his wife Anna live in the Seattle area. Please join me in welcoming Steve to the Homecrest team. He will be joining us for Sunday's sales meeting. Deck/Patio Planner Homecrest just unveiled the easy to use Homecrest Patio Planner. This is a great tool for both consumers and sales associates on the selling floor. It enables one to layout an outdoor space, like a deck or patio, and helps to create confidence in the product selection. Design and layout your dream outdoor space using dining, deep seating, table and accessory pieces simply using the Homecrest website. All of the Homecrest collections are available for placement, including outdoor essentials, like outdoor rugs, umbrellas and pillows. The Homecrest Patio Planner is a great tool, and is fun and easy to use. Catalog Archives Because of Homecrest’s rich heritage in the casual furniture industry, we thought it was important to build a helpful, easy to use, catalog archives section. The catalog archives section of the Homecrest website allows for easy identification of retired and vintage Homecrest product and makes ordering replacement slings effortless. Training Portal Homecrest recently launched a Training Portal, Homecrest University, which features mini seminars, a Twitter information center, training quizzes and marketing support downloads. The goal of the internet based mini seminars and training quizzes is to help our dealers see how easy and fun it is to sell Homecrest furniture, be more knowledgeable about the product, write more sales and make more money. Dealer Portal Homecrest Outdoor Living added the Dealer Portal to the new website in 2010. The goal was to provide our Dealer Network with fast, easy access to the latest Homecrest news, informational tools and downloads to support sales efforts. This portion of the website also features a Twitter application where new information that Homecrest feels dealers need to know is “Tweeted” and sent through the social network to the homepage of the Dealer Portal and to any dealer who is a “follower” of Homecrest. The information within the Dealer Portal is available to all of our Authorized Dealers. Where to Shop Like most sites, Homecrest also offers an easy to use dealer locator to assist consumers in finding the most convenient dealer for them to visit. By clicking the "Where to Shop" button and entering your zip code, consumers will easily populate a dealer list generated in order of proximity…another way to help generate traffic to our valued dealers.  Homecrest Outdoor Living to Attend Annual High Point Market | Wadena, MN, March 22, 2009 – Homecrest Outdoor Living will attend the annual High Point Market, April 17th to the 22nd after a long absence from the market lineup. “In just three short years Homecrest has made incredible strides towards becoming, once again, the industry’s most trusted American made outdoor furniture manufacturer.” said Mark Fillhouer, Homecrest’s COO. “We are excited to be back at High Point and look forward to the opportunities this affords Homecrest and our clients.” Homecrest’s booth will be located in Market Square - Suite G4042 and will feature the latest debuts from Homecrest Outdoor Living, the exclusive free table program as well as the product lineup from the highly successful Quick Ship program. Homecrest’s Quick Ship program features an unprecedented turnaround time of two weeks and allows for smaller warehouse quantities and added savings for dealers. Homecrest Outdoor Living Appoints Hunt as Newest Sales Rep | Wadena, MN, March 22, 2010 – Homecrest Outdoor Living has announced the appointment of David Hunt as the newest Sales Representative for the outdoor furniture brand. Based in Rochester, New York, Hunt’s primary focus will be sales in upstate New York, Western Pennsylvania and Northeast Ohio .A sales representative in this marketplace for over 30 years, Hunt’s longest tenure has been with both Treasure Garden and Lloyd Flanders where he has serviced accounts for over twenty years. "With Dave's experience, dedication and professionalism, he personifies the type of person we want representing Homecrest in this and every other market place." said Todd Wingrove, Director of Sales at Homecrest. Homecrest Outdoor Living Appoints Mulcahy and McElroy as Newest Sales Reps | Wadena, MN, February 9, 2010 –Homecrest Outdoor Living has announced the appointment of Dick Mulcahy and Allan McElroy as Sales Representatives for the longstanding outdoor furniture brand. An award winning sales representative Dick Mulcahy has 26 years experience and will represent Homecrest in Northern California as well as the state of Nevada. Mulcahy has represented companies such as Pride Family Brands, Gensun Casual Furniture, Galtech Market Umbrellas, and Sierra Replacement Cushions. Mulcahy's most recent accomplishments include 2007's Sales Rookie of the Year at Pride Family Brands. A 30 year veteran of the furniture industry, with 18 years at Homecrest, Allan McElroy has worked in sales since 1989. McElroy works closely with his daughter Jennifer McElroy Kulcsar, and together they will represent Homecrest Outdoor Living in the Canadian Provinces with the exception of British Columbia. McElroy has held sales and management roles with Ebel, Galtech Umbrella, Seaside Casual, Outdoor Lifestyle and most recently Tropitone. "We are excited with the continued growth of the sales force at Homecrest. Dick and Allan, along with the team already in place, will continue to grow the Homecrest brand and improve dealer relations within the organization." said Todd Wingrove, Director of Sales at Homecrest Outdoor Living. Homecrest Announces Appointment of Todd Wingrove to Director of Sales | Wadena, MN, February 5, 2009 – Todd Wingrove has been named the new Director of Sales for Homecrest Outdoor Living. Based out of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Wingrove will be responsible for managing and developing the nationwide strategic sales force. Already settled into his position at Homecrest Outdoor Living, Wingrove’s previous sales and management experience includes work with Hekman Furniture, DMI Furniture and most recently Meadowcraft, Inc. With over 17 years of sales and management experience, Wingrove will play a pivotal role in building the sales force, defining market direction, improving dealer relations and guiding product development. “The recent growth and development of the company has been exciting, and with Wingrove at the helm of our sales force, we can continue to propel an already driven team to even greater heights.” said Mark Fillhouer, COO of Homecrest Outdoor Living. “We are excited to have Todd onboard, in addition to a wealth of industry knowledge, he is a singularly enthusiastic and driven individual.” Homecrest Outdoor Living Appoints Caldwell as Newest Sales Rep | Wadena, MN, October 28, 2009 – Homecrest Outdoor Living has announced the appointment of Patrick W. Caldwell as Sales Representative in the northeast region of the US. Based in Huntington New York, Caldwell will focus on sales in the New York metro area, Long Island and Northern New Jersey. Caldwell has over 15 years experience in the furniture industry and is well versed in the areas of sales, training, promotion and management. His experience has included work with distinguished furniture companies such as Ashley Furniture Industries, Safavieh Home Furnishings and Lexington Home Brands. "We are excited to have Pat Caldwell joining us, to represent a legendary outdoor furniture brand, his previous experience and development will be a strong asset to the Homecrest sales force." said Mark Fillhouer, Chief Operating Officer.  Homecrest Sets Sites On Sales Growth and Development | Wadena – August 24, 2009 – Homecrest Outdoor Living, manufacturer of American made outdoor furnishings, recently announced the addition of Donald Fleischman, Kit White, Lloyd Davis and Chris Cafasso to the ever growing sales force. Fleischman joins the Homecrest team as representation for the Wadena based brand in the northeastern United States. Fleischman has almost 8 years experience in sales and management including current representation for Lloyd Flanders and Bungalow. White joins Homecrest Outdoor Living from the White/Barnes Group, where he served as a Manufacturers Representative since 1992. With over 20 year’s sales experience,he has also held sales roles at Jefferson Home Furniture, Lloyd Flanders and OW Lee. With 16 years experience in the area of sales and management, Cafasso will be servicing the states of Georgia and Tennessee. With 75 years of combined experience, Davis and Davis International has joined Homecrest Outdoor Living, representing Florida. "With our site’s set on further enhancing the consumer and dealer experience through Homecrest Outdoor Living, a strong sales force is one of our most valuable assets. Our new rep’s depth of knowledge and work experience will help us achieve greater sales and customer satisfaction.” said Mark Fillhouer Chief Operating Officer, at Homecrest Outdoor Living.
Homecrest Announces Appointment of Chief Operating Officer | Wadena, MN, August 6, 2009 – Homecrest is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Fillhouer as Chief Operating Officer of the Wadena based outdoor furniture company. As Chief Operating Officer, Fillhouer will be responsible for direct management and supervision at Homecrest and will work closely with the newly appointed Director of Sales, to further strengthen the company by implementing strategic and operational initiatives. Fillhouer will focus on executing a growth strategy for Homecrest’s distribution and manufacturing by optimizing processes in these areas. “We are focused on taking Homecrest to the next stage of its growth and development. Mark will be a great asset to the team as we navigate the changes taking place in the marketplace and the outdoor furniture industry” said Michael Bullinger President of Homecrest Outdoor Living. Fillhouer has enjoyed a 26-year career in sales and management, including National Sales Manager of Homecrest from 2000-2005. Most recently, Fillhouer served as Eastern Sales manager for Ekornes Inc. providing key leadership and sales strategies instrumental to the growth in sales of the company. "Homecrest is a strong American brand with tremendous growth potential", said Fillhouer. "Homecrest Outdoor Living is synonymous with quality and durability and I’m excited to once again be apart of the company’s rich history and to work closely with the talented members of the Homecrest team.”
Homecrest Outdoor Living's Sales Force Continues to Grow | Wadena, MN, July 1, 2009 – Homecrest Outdoor Living continues to grow its sales force with the appointment of Ed Hatton, Vincent McEwan and Gregory Poole. These appointments will enhance the already well versed sales force. Ed Hatton, the newest addition to the Homecrest Outdoor Living team will represent the Homecrest brand in Ohio and West Virginia. Hatton’s previous 20 years experience has included retail management and independent sales in the eastern segment of the US. With over 30 years in the furniture industry, McEwan’s exemplarily account growth and development will be a strong asset for the Homecrest sales force. Based on the East Coast, McEwan has experience in all phases of retail operations including demographics, product line up, strategic planning and top line increases. A North Carolina native, Gregory Poole will focus on sales in North and South Carolina. Poole has 25 years experience in the furniture industry including sales, service, marketing, merchandising, and product training. “We continue to develop our sales force in order to better serve the dealer network and to grow the Homecrest brand, and these gentlemen bring invaluable knowledge and experience that will help us in achieving that goal” stated Mike Bullinger president of Homecrest Outdoor Living.
Bullinger Enterprises, LLLP. Buys Innovative Surfaces, Inc. | Fargo, ND, September, 2008 - We are pleased to announce that a purchase agreement has been reached between Bullinger Enterprises, LLLP. of Fargo, ND and Innovative Surfaces, Inc. of Phoenix, AZ. Bullinger Enterprises, LLLP entered the casual furniture market in December of 2007 when it purchased the assets of HC Holdings, LLC and resumed production of Homecrest casual furniture under the name of Homecrest Outdoor Living, LLC. The new company has enjoyed a successful start-up with a philosophy of focusing on the success of the retail dealer; and returning to the business basics of great service, high quality, and competitive pricing. Innovative Surfaces was a pioneer in the faux tabletop market, and remains a leader in the industry today. Launched in 1995, the company has 13 years of inventing, engineering, designing, and perfecting tabletops with the look and feel of real stone, and the durability to live in rugged environments. In the last several years, Innovative Surfaces has perfected the introduction of the use of copper, nickel, and other metals to augment the beauty of their tops. This progressive company has perfected a clear coating that bonds to the table surface at the molecular level for lasting beauty and durability. “The purchase of Innovative Surfaces, and its partnership with Homecrest Outdoor Living, positions both companies for long term success and growth in the casual furniture market. We now have the ingredients necessary to return Homecrest to the market position the company enjoyed in the late 1990’s, and put to rest any doubt that we are serious about the casual furniture market.” says Mike Bullinger, president of both Bullinger Enterprises and Homecrest Outdoor Living. Along with supplying tabletops for Homecrest, Innovative Surfaces will continue to develop and manufacture tops for other leading casual furniture manufacturers. By continuing to combine the volumes of several furniture manufacturers, Innovative will be able to make the necessary investments to remain cost competitive and a market leader in this very important market segment.
Homecrest's Holly Hill Collection Named Consumer Digest Best Buy | Wadena, MN, August 21, 06 - The Holly Hill Collection from Homecrest, a leading manufacturer of affordable luxury furniture for outdoor living, was named a Consumers Digest “Best Buy in Metal Outdoor Furniture” in the August, 2006 issue of the magazine. Consumers Digest cited the seating options available from the collection and noted that the line is available in 11 finishes and 100 fabrics. The Holly Hill Collection is one of Homecrest’s signature product groupings, and one of the company’s most popular lines of outdoor furniture. According to Consumers Digest: “A Consumers’ Digest ‘Best Buy’ is a nationally available product that merits special attention from consumers based on its combination of performance, ease-of-use, features, durability, warranty, efficiency, styling, and maintenance and servicing requirements.” For outdoor furniture, a “Best Buy” was also based on the 5number of design, fabric, and color options available. “We pride ourselves on the quality and longevity of our products,“ said Bruce Gorghuber, Plant Manager of Homecrest. “This is great recognition of the hard work and attention to detail in all areas of the company that go into the venerable and popular Holly Hill line.” |
