Lodge Manufacturing in South Pittsburg, Tenn., is bringing out a new line of seasoned carbon-steel cookware.The International Home + Housewares Show featured a multitude of relatively new companies this year. But there were four American companies considered the elder statesmen of American companies that, not wanting to rest on their laurels, keep bringing new products to the market.
One is just down the road from Chattanooga: Lodge Manufacturing, founded in South Pittsburg in 1896. Lodge is best known for its cast-iron wares, but the company doesn't stop there. It's important to introduce new products, says CEO Bob Kellermann.
"We always maintain our aggressive efforts to promote our products and brand," Kellermann notes. "Regardless of the trade -- gourmet, restaurants/institutions and outdoor -- Lodge works with our customers to introduce new products."
The newest line of Lodge kitchenwares is its line of seasoned carbon steel. It's a natural link to cast-iron cookware. Prices range from $40 to $90 per piece.
"Especially in the restaurant and the outdoor markets. Once people cook with seasoned steel, they're very excited about the results," Kellermann says.
Sales are good, he says. So good, in fact, that work to enlarge the foundry is nearly complete in order to meet increasing demands for Lodge products.
Other grand old companies and their latest products brought to the show included:
* Pyrex, founded in 1915, premiered its Easy Grab Anniversary Pie Plate, $5.99; 4-cup red Anniversary Measuring Cup, $6.99; and 4-cup decorated storage container, $5.99. All are available now.
* CorningWare, started in 1958 by Corning Glass Works, premiered its French White Cast Aluminum line including a 3.5-quart round Dutch oven with cover, $59.99; 4-quart oval braiser with glass cover, $69.99; and 5.5-quart round Dutch oven with glass cover, $79.99, all available now.
* Chicago Cutlery, founded in 1930, premiered its Uptown 12-piece block set, $74.99, available now; its West Town six-piece prep set, $59.99, available in July; and the Wellington 13-piece block set, $89.99, available in August.
Contact Anne Braly at abraly@timesfreepress.com.
