Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM MAY 2018 18 diffuse the heat from the burners for convenient gas-only cooking. The next year, built-in versions were released. Several years later, in 2005, the first proprietary stainless burner design—the cast stainless-steel Dragon Burner—was released. In 2007, the second generation launched, called Kalamazoo Dual-fuel Grill. The Bread Breaker Dual-fuel was redesigned and renamed it the K900 Hybrid Fire Grill. The aesthetics were refined, and modifications were made to the hopper and hood. The Steadfast grill was renamed the K450 series. A revised version of the K900 Hybrid Fire Grill was released in 2009, adding hood assist springs and an all-new Hybrid Fire Grilling Drawer that combined the functions of the formerly separate gas-grilling and solid-fuel-grilling drawers. Burner performance was improved through an air-management system. The third generation launched in 2011 with a ground-up redesign of the architecture. The K500, K750 and K1000 Series Hybrid Fire Grills replaced the K450 and K900 series grills. Dedicated gas versions of these grills were no longer offered. These new grills featured our second proprietary burner design, the cast brass second-generation Dragon Burner. It delivered more even heat to the entire grilling area, and enabled more flexibility for differing grill sizes. The Hybrid Fire Grill became available in nine different models. "Our latest version of the Hybrid Fire Grill really changed the game for Kalamazoo. We set ourselves a very ambitious goal — not only would this grill distinguish itself through its hybrid capabilities, it would also set itself apart as the best gas grill available," said Faulk. "You don't need to add charcoal or wood to create amazing food on this grill." A commemorative anniversary medallion honoring the mile- stone will be on display at Kalamazoo dealer partner locations, and at events such as the 2018 Architectural Digest Home Design Show. The badge is a visual reminder of the grill's 20-year history. Please visit www. kalamazoogourmet.com for more information. ALMO PREMIUM APPLIANCES TO BE THE AUTHORIZED DISTRIBUTOR OF RECORD FOR AMERICAN RANGE Almo announces partnership as the distributor of record for American Range in 36 of the 50 U.S. states Almo Premium Appliances, distributor of professional-grade luxury home appliances, is the new authorized distributor of record for American Range in the 36 of 50 U.S. states. As part of its launch and partnership announcement, American Ranges highlighted two of its popular ranges in Almo's exhibition at the industry leading Architectural Digest Design Show. American Range is a luxury commercial and home appliance manufacturer with more than 30 years experience perfecting its line of gas ranges, French-door wall ovens, slide-in rangetops and cooktops. Its professional cooking products have the soul and performance of commercial ranges; blended with style and built to withstand the challenges of the most demanding chefs and kitchens. "We're excited to add American Range to our diverse, best-in-class offerings of premium brands, nationwide," said Steve Terry, vice president and COO for Almo Premium Appliances. He continued, "American Range has a history of stellar manufacturing and craftsmanship, immeasurable style and a firm commitment to delivering value to our customers. The company's leadership and focus on growth aligns well with Almo's approach, and we look forward to many years of successful business. Please visit premium.almo.com for further information. LIEBHERR SHOWCASES MONOLITH TOWERS AND UNVEIL NEW UNDER- COUNTER REFRIGERATION UNITS AT 2018 ARCHITECTURAL DIGEST DESIGN SHOW The next generation of home refrigeration is here Liebherr Appliances, one of the world's leading manufacturers of premium refrigeration for more than 60 years, returned as an exhibitor to the 2018 Architectural Digest Design Show with groundbreaking products and innovative smart technology. "We always look forward to the AD Show and are especially excited to showcase Monolith to this prestigious design community," says Josef Steigmiller, divisional director of the refrigerators and freezers division of Liebherr USA, Co. "It's a proud moment for us at Liebherr; the culmination of our 60 years of refrigeration innovation and expertise." Monolith, an impressive 84" from top to bottom, is a literal tower of achievement in cooling with whisper silent operation, smart technology, and a sleek design that can integrate seamlessly into the kitchen. In addition to its striking design, Monolith features SmartDeviceBox, which allows users to connect to their network, I N D U S T R Y [ N E W S ]

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