Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association

who were looking to buy new products with the manufacturers. For many years, we were basically a trade show masquerading as an association. I joined in 2000, and by that time, my predecessor was working at trying to make it a real trade association. We were adding staff and expertise. We merged with the barbecue Industry Association in 2002, they had started exhibiting at our trade show, because our retailers were basically busy from Labor Day until early the following year, and they needed for cash flow purposes to carry some products that would be more summer oriented. So, we have been basically representing two industries now for 19 years.” With a membership of 2200, HPBA has 12 affiliates in North America for non- manufacturing members. Affiliate memberships are location specific and offer regional support. Manufacturers join the national organization looking for a broader North American focus. Goldman explains, “It is really about promoting and protecting the industries. That includes government affairs issues, as well as giving the industries tools to see where markets are headed and to potentially adjust. We have a research department, and they look at consumer trends. We do consumer surveys every other year for each industry, to help manufacturing members decide where they should invest in new products.” Currently, HPBA is working with its members who manufacture woodburning products on the implementation of new U.S. EPA regulations – addressing questions and troubleshooting potential issues. The association is also working with the EPA to develop a new test method for emissions. “We feel the industry has been moving towards cleaner and more efficient stoves for 30 years,” says Goldman. Another issue being addressed is electrification, as more municipalities in both the U.S. and Canada consider banning natural gas in new construction, instead favoring all-electric homes. HEARTH , PAT IO & BARBECUE ASSOC I AT ION (HPBA) Jack Goldman at HPBExpo Show Opening Jack Goldman, President and CEO