Category: Newsletter Archives

Jan-Feb 2012 Newsletter

 

  Jan – Feb 2012


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    HPBExpo 2012
 

pic5The show is March 1-3, 2012 at the World Congress Center in Atlanta.

We'll be there, in Booth 1407; after you go through the main entrance, turn left and you'll see Rasmussen.

Question: Will you be there, too?

 


    HPBExpo 2013 – Change of Venue
 

feedback bosHPBA was informed in early January that the new Music City Convention Center n Nashville, TN would not be completed in time for the March 2013 show.

HPBA found that Orlando was available, and the Board of Directors voted to hold the show there March 13-16, 2013.

We know it's a year away, but what do you think of Orlando? Do you think that you will attend?

 


    NEW– Valve Vanisher™ with EIS
 
Rasmussen has created the Valve Vanisher ™ as the solution to three main issues with Electronic Ignition Systems installed inside the fireplace:

              1. The "Big Ugly Box"
              2. The Big Ugly box requires that the gas log set be downsized in order to center the set; otherwise, the log set is off-centered. Either way, the aesthetics of the gas log set and fireplace are less than desirable.
              3. The components are very heat sensitive.

              With the Valve Vanisher, Rasmussen has taken the components of the Big Ugly Box and located them underneath the gas log set. The VV raises the log set up just 2 5/8". The control valve is located on the right, and the control module on the left; both are in cool zones proven by extensive testing.

               

              Read More

               


                  Have you 'Liked' us on Facebook yet?
               
              We have pages for both Rasmussen Gas Logs and Solaire Infrared Grills. Stop on by, read our posts and feel free to contribute your photos and stories to the community.

              www.facebook.com/GasLogs | www.facebook.com/SolaireGrills

               


                  Relevant Info for Your Business
               
              Best Sellers for 2011pic5

              Here is a recap of our best sellers and sales proportions for 2011. This info is good for determining displays, directing customer choices and fulfilling inquisitive minds.

              Top Vented Log Styles

              1. Lone Star (LS) – 18%
              2. Evening Prestige (EPR) – 16%
              3. TimberFire (PH) – 14%

              Honorable Mention: Prestige Oak (PR) and Evening CrossFire (EXF)

              Read Morerule1

              Is Facebook Advertising for You?

              pic5 Does your business have a doorknob that customers turn? If so, then Facebook is for you. Dentists, doctors, lawyers, veterinarians, physical trainers, gyms, specialty shops, cupcake stores, specialty groceries, beer and wine shops, restaurants, mechanics, theaters and music venues are highly likely to benefit from locally targeted Facebook campaigns

              Read More rule1

              Super Bowl Psychology: What Winning Teams Do Right

              pic5 Success in business, as on the football field, is dependent on the quality of the people who make up the team, according to performance psychologist Jack Stark. The best companies have to have cohesive teams and focus on preparation, experts say.

              Read More

              rule1

              Save big by rooting out money mistakes

              pic5A penny saved is not a penny earned. To business owners, a penny saved is a nickel, dime, or more earned. Let us explain: If you have a 10% profit margin, you need to generate $1,000 in new sales to net the same profit as cutting $100 in expenses. Thus a dime saved is a dollar earned.

              Read More

               

               

                  Make More Money NOW!

              Introducing the NEW Dealer Business Alliance (DBA) Program, sponsored by Rasmussen.

              banner1

              Here's what you get FREE:

              • Advertising, branding strategies & collateral
              • Inside & outside sales strategies & training
              • Online PR development & distribution
              • Email marketing tools & distribution
              • Website deveopment & SEO Strategies
              • Live & online training events

              With Rasmussen and the Dealer Business Alliance program, you can make more money now.


                  HELPFUL Links

              Be sure to bookmark these useful pages:

              www.rasmussen.biz

              Troubleshooting and Knowledge Base

              Photo Repository

              Blog / Newsletter Archive


                Customer Testimonials
               

              Here are a few of our most recent testimonials we'd like to share:

              "I just wanted to let you know that I got the part for my 27" Solaire before Christmas. I installed it easily thanks to your instructions and the cleverly simple design of the grill. So now you can tell other buyers that replacing parts is "so easy even a 66 year old woman can do it." Thanks again!"
              - Noel T., St. Augustine, FL

               

              "Hi Rich,
              I received my (3) replacement infrared burners for my 27" Petite Solaire grill. Everything looks great and it FITS….yeah! I wanted to say just how satisfied I am with Rasmussen products and especially its customer service. You are one of the most customer service oriented people I have ever worked with and you sure know how to take care of your customers. You are a valuable assets to Rasmussen and probably the biggest reason I will continue to do business with Rasmussen."

              - Scott, S., Raleigh, NC

               

              "I needed someone to help me restart my pilot light on my Rasmussen logs. I called and just spoke to Felix. Felix was extremely helpful and most patient with me. I wanted the company to know that I appreciated Felix's help and most of all his encouragement to get the job done. He wasn't going to let me hang up without being successful. Thank you!!"
              - Mary N.,

               

              "My Solaire Anywhere is by far the best portable grill on the market and it's made in the USA."
              - Doug A., Port Charlotte, FL

               


              Copyright 2012 Rasmussen Gas Logs & Grills. All Rights Reserved.

               

               

              Oct/Nov 2011 Newsletter

                Oct / Nov 2011


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                "Save Gas Logs" Latest News
               

              pic5The Battle is Won, but the War Still Rages On.

              We've won a battle to save gas logs, but the war rages on. Late on November 9, 2011, the US Department of Energy (DOE) gave notice that they will publish a Final Rule to their July 22, 2011 Notice of Proposed Rule in the Federal Register in the near future. Whereas the DOE desired in July to impose four specific restrictions on vented gas log set (eliminating standing pilots and requiring all gas log sets to be listed to ANSI Z21.60 standard being the most damaging), the Final Rule imposes no such restrictions on gas log sets. It does place four restrictions on vented decorative gas fireplaces, but these had been proposed by our industry during previous negotiations with DOE.;

              It is evident that the testimony that Rasmussen and others provided directly to DOE, and the comments that gas log supporters submitted to DOE and their congressional representatives had impact on the DOE's Final Rule. Congratulations and thanks to those who participated in fighting for vented gas log sets.

              Read More

               


                DBA Webinar Recording Download
               

              webinarOn Tuesday, October 11, 2011, we held our second Dealer Business Alliance conference call.

              We used the webinar-type format with slide show and audio. We had a few technical glitches but powered through them to deliver relevant and timely information to help improve your business.

              Guest speaker Lee Sweeney of ACG Technologies spoke about recent changes to the Google search algorithm that favors local dealers like you and ways that you can take advantage of these developments. Signing up for and fine tuning Google Places is a no cost (just your time) first step. Lee spoke about "Mobilization" and how important it is to optimize your website for mobile smart phones. In fact, Google can tell if a user is searching from a mobile device, and favors serving up websites that are mobile optimized. Lee also spoke about updating your website to keep it relevant and fresh, just like your physical store.

              View the Mobilization Webinar Replay or Download Video File

              The era of personal service is back and Rasmussen is committed to assisting our dealers. Please watch our newsletter and emails for announcements of future DBA conferences.

               


                What's working out there?
               

              feedback bos

              We want more feedback!

              Please email to rett@rasmussen.biz a picture and a paragraph that we can share in this newsletter of a success story you would like to share.  Photos showing unique installations or special touches would be helpful.  Perhaps you totally nailed a presentation because you _________ (fill in the blank and send in the story).

               
                  Relevant Info for Your Business
               

              Boost business without breaking the bank this holiday seasonpic5

              Given the economic troubles, drawing business this holiday season might be a challenge. But a few strategies can help such as carefully doling out coupons and making your order and delivery process as easy as possible, Jeanne Rossomme writes.

              Read More

              rule1Cook a Turkey on Solaire Infrared

              pic5

              A turkey at Thanksgiving or Christmas is a holiday tradition for many families, and the Rasmussens are no exception.  I roasted our family's 15 pound turkey on our 42-inch Solaire Infrared Grill. We have the IRBQ-42C, which does not have the rear infrared rotisserie burner. Not to worry, as you can prepare almost any kind of food on a Solaire – it's all about managing the heat.

              Read Morerule19 tips for giving your people the praise they deserve

              pic5

              When offering praise to your employees, it's important to understand what makes each person tick, Jeff Haden writes. "Your goal is to know your every employee so you can recognize each one in the manner that produces the greatest impact for that person," he writes. Also remember that recognition is more effective the quicker it is given and be sincere with your praise, he recommends.

              Read Morerule1Rotary 4-Way Testpic5

              In this special video, Rett Rasmussen talks about values by explaining Rotary International's Four-Way Test.

              Watch Video

               

                  Make More Money NOW!

              Introducing the NEW Dealer Business Alliance (DBA) Program, sponsored by Rasmussen.

              banner1

              Here's what you get FREE:

              • Advertising, branding strategies & collateral
              • Inside & outside sales strategies & training
              • Online PR development & distribution
              • Email marketing tools & distribution
              • Website deveopment & SEO Strategies
              • Live & online training events

              With Rasmussen and the Dealer Business Alliance program, you can make more money now.

               


                  HELPFUL Links

              Be sure to bookmark these useful pages:

              www.rasmussen.biz

              Troubleshooting and Knowledge Base

              Photo Repository

              Blog / Newsletter Archive


                Happy Thanksgiving!
               

              feedback bos

              Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected from us, and that true homage comes from the heart as well as from the lips, and shows itself in deeds.

              –Theodore Roosevelt

              From the Rasmussen family to yours. We want to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving!

               

               


              Copyright 2011 Rasmussen Gas Logs & Grills. All Rights Reserved.

               

              August 2011 Newsletter


              August 2011


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                BROMIC HEATER INTERVIEW
               
              pic1

              Watch Rett Rasmussen & Dan Joseph, Sales Director for Bromic Heating, discuss the new Bromic Heater.

               


                  Important Info & Announcements
               

              pic5

              Rasmussen Gas Logs & Grills is truly committed to helping our dealers succeed, and we're proving that through action. On August 16th, we held the introductory call for the new Dealer Business Alliance program.

              DID YOU MISS THE CALL?

              If you did, here's the link to download the MP3 recording:

              This introductory call provides an overview of what this DBA Conference call program is all about, why we're investing time and resources into conducting these calls, and most importantly, what you can expect to get out of the program.

              We are looking forward to holding these highly informative and valuable calls. Over the next few weeks, we will be establishing the schedule for these calls and will send out that information to you as soon as we have it finalized.

              Download the MP3 now.

              rule1

              Bromic Radiant Patio Heater Trainingpic5

              Wednesday, August 24, 2011, we streamed live over the web the Bromic Radiant Patio Heater training that was conducted at our Whittier facility by the Technical and Sales Directors of Bromic. They were gracious to visit us from Australia to perform this valuable training.

              If you were unable to attend the live session, you may view recordings of the training at http://www.livestream.com/rasmussenonline. The recordings are broken up into six chapters, totaling about 2 hours, 22 minutes, and will remain at this site for a while for your convenience.

              The initial feedback from those who viewed the training live, either in person or online, were very favorable. They felt it was informative, helped them gain a better understanding of the Bromic line and its place in the market, and feel that it will help them be able to make sales.

              Please direct any questions you may have about the Bromic line to me. Also, be sure to stay tuned to www.radiantpatioheater.com for the new videos that were referred to in the training.

              rule1

              Mr. Rasmussen Goes to Washington
              pic5

              After one and a half years of saying that gas logs would not be included in Department of Energy (DOE) rule making on gas fireplaces, on July 22 they wrote new rules that did indeed bring gas logs into their regulation. Under the proposed rules, gas logs would either:

              • (1) have to comply with minimum fuel efficiency levels (not practical for gas logs, since these products do not include the enclosure or the flue;
              • (2) be declared as "decorative" by having a gas input of 9,000 BTU/hour or less (yes, just nine thousand – think about 12 pilot lights lined up next to each other – not very decorative); or
              • (3) meet the following requirements to be excluded from the rule:
                • (a) Be certified to ANSI Z21.60
                • (b) Sold without a thermostat, and void the warranty if one were ever installed;
                • (c) "Expressly and conspicuously identified" on the rating plate and in advertising that a gas log set is a "Decorative Product: Not For Use As A Heating Appliance; and
                • (d) Not be equipped with a standing pilot light, after July 1, 2014.

              On Thursday, September 1, 2011, Rett Rasmussen and other industry leaders will testify before a public meeting at DOE headquarters in Washington, DC. Rett is a Certified Gas Engineer by the American Society of Gas Engineers, has been designing gas log sets for over twenty years, and has been on many technical committees that have developed and maintained national standards for gas logs and other fireplace products. Rett has identified some flaws in their research and will attempt to "set them right". Rett will provide a report of his experience in a special email next week.

               

                  Make More Money NOW!

              Introducing the NEW Dealer Business Alliance (DBA) Program, sponsored by Rasmussen.

              banner1

              Here's what you get FREE:

              • Advertising, branding strategies & collateral
              • Inside & outside sales strategies & training
              • Online PR development & distribution
              • Email marketing tools & distribution
              • Website deveopment & SEO Strategies
              • Live & online training events

              With Rasmussen and the Dealer Business Alliance program, you can make more money now.

               


                  HELPFUL Links

              Be sure to bookmark these useful pages:

              www.rasmussen.biz

              Troubleshooting and Knowledge Base

              Photo Repository

              Blog / Newsletter Archive


                  Dealer Best Practice!
              pic8

              Tom Parks from Coastroad Hearth & Patio in Shallotte, NC, (http://coastroadonline.com) sent in this photo of our Rumford Tipi logs (RF-T60LOG with TNA30E-LP burner) installed in a masonry Rumford-style fireplace. Installing a gas log set that is in alignment with the orientation of the opening is important for achieving a "natural" look. The vertical lines of the Rumford Tipi were made for tall openings like this. A traditional horizontal log stack, while looking skimpy, would also have a difficult time fitting into the narrow read width found in Rumford fireplaces. The result's of properly sizing the log set to the fireplace opening speak for themselves.

              Read more about Rumford fireplaces on www.RasBox at http://goo.gl/6vNT8

              Please send in your installation and business successes to us and we'll give your some press here.

               

               


                  What's working out there?
              pic8

              We want more feedback!

              We've been hearing some positive reports from the field that 2011 is shaping up well, especially compared to the past couple of years. What's do you see? What actions have you taken that have had positive results?

              Please email to rett@rasmussen.biz a picture and a paragraph that we can share in this newsletter. Photos showing unique installations or special touches would be helpful. Such an idea exchange could be quite valuable – you might find that next big idea for your shop that has proven results from another area of the country. We'll provide full attribution to those contributions that we use, with a link back to your website (which helps increase your search engine ranking).

               

              Copyright 2011 Rasmussen Gas Logs & Grills. All Rights Reserved.

              July 2011 Newsletter

               

                JULY 2011


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                SPECIAL PROMOTION
               

              pic1Get Ready for Tailgating Season

              Buy 5 Everywheres, Get One FREE PLUS get a free stand and shelf kit for your display.

              The Everywhere is a great "cash and carry item." Have them on hand to take advantage of immediate sales opportunities!

              PRICE: $897.00, plus get free shipping and free merchandise. That's a savings of $280.20 (over 31% savings).

              Simply order through normal order channels or simply contact us directly.

               


                  Dealer Business Alliance…
               

              pic5

              Rasmussen Gas Logs & Grills is truly committed to helping our dealers succeed, and we're proving that through action. Our intent with the new Dealer Business Alliance program is to help you MAKE MORE MONEY NOW!

              Some of the topics we'll be covering include:

              • Advertising, branding strategies & collateral
              • Inside & outside sales strategies & training
              • Online PR development & distribution
              • Email marketing tools & distribution
              • Website deveopment & SEO Strategies
              • and much, much, more…

              We invite you to register and attend our very first Dealer Business Alliance Conference Call to be held on 8/16 at 12:00 PST. If you're not able to attend, go ahead and still register. We'll send out a recording of the call to all registered dealers.

              Take advantage of this opportunity to learn about best practices from your peers along with cutting edge information from top marketing experts about what it takes to succeed in this new economic climate.

              An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.
              Benjamin Franklin

               

                  Important Info & Announcements

               

              How to Use RasBoxpic5

              RasBox is a knowledge base for trouble-shooting help, instruction & installation manuals, pricing, policies & programs, brochures, testimonials, & Google Sketch Up models.

              Basically, it's everything that has to do with Rasmussen & it's products, all in a nice little box. Learn more about how to use RasBox by watching this instructional video.

              rule1

              Bromic Radiant Patio Heater Trainingpic5

              You asked for it. Now it's here!

              We're pleased to announce that training for the Bromic Infrared Patio heater will be held at Rasmussen Gas Logs & Grills' corporate offices in Whittier on August 24, starting at 9 am PDT.

              Bromic representatives will be flying into Rasmussen corporate office to conduct this training. The training will be streamed LIVE over the web, as well as recorded on video. Register to receive the viewing link.

              You don't want to miss this!

              rule1

              Log Display Racks
              pic5

              Summer is also the time to prepare for the Fireplace Season. Don't let Labor Day sneak up on you.

              Rasmussen offers display racks to help you be ready for when things heat up. View our recommended rack load-outs for selecting the sets to display in your shop, depending on your market and desires.

              Watch Video

               

                  Make More Money NOW!

              Introducing the NEW Dealer Business Alliance (DBA) Program, sponsored by Rasmussen.

              banner1

              Here's what you get FREE:

              • Advertising, branding strategies & collateral
              • Inside & outside sales strategies & training
              • Online PR development & distribution
              • Email marketing tools & distribution
              • Website deveopment & SEO Strategies
              • Live & online training events

              With Rasmussen and the Dealer Business Alliance program, you can make more money now.

               


                  HELPFUL Links

              Be sure to bookmark these useful pages:

              www.rasmussen.biz

              Troubleshooting and Knowledge Base

              Photo Repository

              Blog / Newsletter Archive


                  What's working out there?
              pic8

              We want more feedback!

              We've been hearing some positive reports from the field that 2011 is shaping up well, especially compared to the past couple of years. What's do you see? What actions have you taken that have had positive results?

              Please email to rett@rasmussen.biz a picture and a paragraph that we can share in this newsletter. Photos showing unique installations or special touches would be helpful. Such an idea exchange could be quite valuable – you might find that next big idea for your shop that has proven results from another area of the country. We'll provide full attribution to those contributions that we use, with a link back to your website (which helps increase your search engine ranking).

               

              Copyright 2011 Rasmussen Gas Logs & Grills. All Rights Reserved.

               

               

              June 2011 Newsletter

              Trouble viewing – View online JUNE 2011


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                  Our apologies…
               

              pic1

              Sometimes, we really hate technology…

              If you tried to view videos or clicked on some of the links from the July newsletter over the past couple of days and got an error message, we apologize. Obviously, there was a technical glitch. The glitch has been fixed and we're resending the newsletter to ensure that you didn't miss any valuable information.

               

              While we have your attention, we'd like to tell you about a special promotion:

               


                SPECIAL PROMOTION
               

              pic1Get Ready for Tailgating Season

              Buy 5 Everywheres, Get One FREE PLUS get a free stand and shelf kit for your display.

              The Everywhere is a great "cash and carry item." Have them on hand to take advantage of immediate sales opportunities!

              PRICE: $897.00, plus get free shipping and free merchandise. That's a savings of $280.20 (over 31% savings).

              Simply order through normal order channles or contact us directly.

               


                  SOLAIRE Demo Program
               

              pic5

              Brian from PA had this to say about his experience with the Solaire Demo Rental Program: "Your program is amazing, as is the grill. I never would have considered spending $4000 or $5000 on a grill until I tried your demo grill. I was hooked after the first steak. My wife took an extra T-bone to convince her. Thank you for this great program and your great grill!"

              Read about the dealer's role in the program here. To sum it up, when a consumer brings in the discount coupon they receive at the conclusion of their demo rental period, the dealer needs to ask the consumer just two questions:

              1. Which size grill do you wish to purchase (27" or larger)?; and
              2. Will that be cash, check or credit card?

              They are already sold on Solaire, because they have grilled the types of food they like to eat in their own backyard. They are experienced, informed and ready to purchase when they cross your threshold with the discount coupon. Fill out the form to receive your Solaire Demo Program Counter Card and to be listed as a participating dealer on our website. Let the Solaire Demo program help you close more sales.

                  Important Videos to Watch

              Log Display Racks
              pic5

              Summer is also the time to prepare for the Fireplace Season. Don't let Labor Day sneak up on you.

              Rasmussen offers display racks to help you be ready for when things heat up. View our recommended rack load-outs for selecting the sets to display in your shop, depending on your market and desires.

              Watch Videorule1

              NEW! Radiant Patio Heater Websitepic5

              Rasmussen is the US distributor (except for the Pacific Northwest) for the Bromic Infrared Radiant Patio Heater line.

              We have just launched a new website at www.RadiantPatioHeater.com to promote this new line of installed patio heaters with contemporary styling. Please contact us if you are interested in offering these fine heaters to your market.rule1

              The Spirit of the Blacksmithpic5

              We recently added to our website a video presentation entitled "The Spirit of the Blacksmith" that presents our company, products and attributes to visitors to our website. Please check it out at www.rasmussen.biz

              rule1

              Rasmussen's DBA Helps Your Businesspic5

              Ed and Rett discuss internet visibility issues dealers have, and offer a free Search Engine Optimization (SEO) evaluation for your website.

              Watch Video

               

                  Make More Money NOW!

              Introducing the NEW Dealer Business Alliance (DBA) Program, sponsored by Rasmussen.

              banner1

              Here's what you get FREE:

              • Advertising, branding strategies & collateral
              • Inside & outside sales strategies & training
              • Online PR development & distribution
              • Email marketing tools & distribution
              • Website deveopment & SEO Strategies
              • Live & online training events

              With Rasmussen and the Dealer Business Alliance program, you can make more money now.

               


                  HELPFUL Links

              Be sure to bookmark these useful pages:

              www.rasmussen.biz

              Troubleshooting and Knowledge Base

              Photo Repository

              Blog / Newsletter Archive


                  Custom Application Success!
               

              Last month we suggested an idea exchange where dealers would share what is working for them. Many thanks to Mitchell from Wilshire Fireplace Shops in Encinitas, CA for providing the following three photos and descriptions. Please pass along your success stories, whether it be product or promotion "victories".

              pic8

              "In response to your newsletter, here is a custom application using your custom 72" stainless steel pan burner along with a large TimberFire log set. The customer wanted a modern look utilizing a log set so we had you make up this burner with an extra set of legs in the center to handle the weight of the logs and crushed glass installed as the base under the logs. The customer was very happy with the outcome and when it was burning in the evening the effect was very dramatic!"

              pic8

              “Same home, but an inside see thru fireplace again using your custom pan with glass only for a very clean modern look.”

               

              pic8

              “This customer wanted a unique look in their firepit that would not involve crushed glass or logs. The wife wanted something that would look a little whimsical so we came up with this look using an assortment of different sized FireBalls to achieve the "lunar landscape" firepit. She was really happy with the look and it looked awesome in the evenings when it was burning.”

               


                  What's working out there?
              pic8

              We want more feedback!

              We've been hearing some positive reports from the field that 2011 is shaping up well, especially compared to the past couple of years. What's do you see? What actions have you taken that have had positive results?

              Please email to rett@rasmussen.biz a picture and a paragraph that we can share in this newsletter. Photos showing unique installations or special touches would be helpful. Such an idea exchange could be quite valuable – you might find that next big idea for your shop that has proven results from another area of the country. We'll provide full attribution to those contributions that we use, with a link back to your website (which helps increase your search engine ranking).

               

              Copyright 2011 Rasmussen Gas Logs & Grills. All Rights Reserved.


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