SAN FRANCISCO-Williams-Sonoma debuted its own brand of cookware and stainless steel tools, as well as a collection of smart tools for the kitchen, online this week, with the in-store debut set to begin Nov. 23.
The new Thermo-Clad cookware line and the kitchen and smart tools draw on the retailer’s five decades of culinary experience, the company said, as well as address consumers’ technology needs in the kitchen. Manufactured in Italy, the line is comprised of an exclusive aluminum alloy that the company said provides up to 35 percent more conductivity for precise and even heating and temperature control. It also features stay-cool, ergonomic handles and double-wall insulated lids, and comes with a lifetime guarantee. Initial Thermo-Clad products now available include a 10-piece cookware set ($799.95), a 10-inch non-stick fry pan ($99.95) and a 12-inch non-stick fry pan with lid ($129.95). The nine new kitchen tools, which includes a classic ladle and a fine mesh skimmer, retail between $26.95 to $49.95 individually; they are also available in sets.
For the tablet-owning chef, the retailer’s new smart tools help incorporate technology in the kitchen. The kitchen stand is designed to support Apple’s iPad and can be used by itself or sit on top of the splash-proof Bluetooth speaker, enabling the chef to watch any online/local video content. The speaker also functions as a charging station with two USB ports, and is also available at Apple retail stores in the U.S. and online. Retail prices are $149.95 for the speaker, $49.95 for the kitchen stand, $14.95 for the screen shields and $199.95 for a set containing a speaker, kitchen stand and screen shields.
“Innovation, quality and craftsmanship are all part of the Williams-Sonoma legacy,” said Richard Harvey, brand president of Williams-Sonoma. “With more than 56 years of product innovations and experience, we have created the ultimate line of cooking equipment and tools. After extensive development, we are proud to introduce our most technologically advanced cookware and tools to date.”
“By combining our years of authority and product expertise, we created a line so innovative, we put our name on it,” said Laura Alber, president and chief executive officer, Williams-Sonoma, Inc. “This introduction is an important strategic development for our business. The products introduced today are just the beginning – over the next several years, we will be introducing many more new products that will bear our name.”