(from the June 2009 Issue)

Association Of Independent Granite
Fabricators Is Gaining Momentum

Artisan Group, a nationwide network of premier countertop fabricators, set out to change the stone industry by offering more experience, better quality stone and higher accreditation levels than what has become standard. Artisan was the first company to offer a comprehensive lifetime warranty on its own brand of granite-Artisan Stone™ Collection. Because of the way members conduct business, the group is attracting more members and exclusive contracts with some powerhouses in the kitchen and bath industry such as Kohler.

“On average, our members have more than 20 years of countertop fabrication experience and we wanted to raise the bar and offer our business partners and consumers more value through our products and service,” says Evan Kruger, Artisan Group board member. “This approach has resulted in some synergistic relationships that include an exclusive dealer program with Kohler and our own line of exotic wood countertops, Heritage Wood™.”

In a first-of-its-kind program for Kohler, as a Registered Specialty Dealer, the Artisan Group has access to KOHLER and STERLING brand kitchen sinks and KOHLER kitchen faucets, aligning with the manufacturer’s expansive network of national and regional plumbing wholesalers. Additionally, Artisan Group showrooms are equipped with displays and product information on kitchen sinks and faucets, some of which are not offered elsewhere, so customers better understand their choices to complement countertop surfaces.

“Combining two leading brands—Kohler and Artisan Group—fills a need in the marketplace that is currently underserved,” said Mally Henne, channel manager for kitchen products, Kohler Co. “Kohler’s wholesale channel is ready to connect and build business in this important surface market. This program ensures customers receive high quality products from recognized brands within their respective industries. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”

The Artisan Group members use the latest and most accurate fabrication tools and techniques and the fact that the group consists of more than 35 members spread across the United States and Canada creates an ideal distribution network.

Every Artisan countertop is sealed with Firstline™ Sealer which is exclusive to the Artisan Group and provides the very best stain protection technology.

“We are confident that homeowners will embrace our lifetime warranty and will appreciate the superior fabrication and service Artisan Group provides,” said Sid Mackay, Artisan Group board member. “This new warranty offers customers perpetual peace of mind about a major purchase that’s generally a focal point inside their home.”

Artisan Group
Artisan Group™ is the premier network of stone fabricators in North America. Its extensive network allows the organization to offer the world’s best granite from the best sources around the globe. Utilizing the most technically advanced, automated shops in the industry, highly skilled craftsmen ensure that each and every installation meets exacting standards. From classic to exotic, it offers the most extensive array of color choices in the industry, and with short lead times and competitive pricing, Artisan Group granite countertops are closer than one might expect. For more info, visit www.artisan-collection.com.

Kohler
Founded in 1873 and headquartered in Kohler, Wis., Kohler Co. is one of America’s oldest and largest privately held companies. Kohler is a global leader in the manufacture of kitchen and bath products, engines and power generation systems, cabinetry, tile and home interiors, and an international host to award-winning hospitality and world-class golf destinations. For more information, visit www.kohler.com.

Heritage Wood Countertops
Heritage Wood, fine solid wood countertops are expertly crafted to bring elegance, warmth and durability to any décor. Skilled artisans carefully select the world’s finest domestic, exotic and reclaimed wood, and then craft it to perfection. Available exclusively through Artisan Group, the country’s premier network of countertop fabricators, Heritage Wood adds a unique, luminous touch to kitchens and countertops. All Heritage Wood Countertops come with a full warranty. Product images available at www.getaha.com/ftp/Heritage-Wood-Photos.zip.

Firstline
Firstline Sealer is an exclusive solvent-based and V.O.C. compliant impregnator sealer. It is the finest sealer for granite penetrating grout and dense stone to protect against water and oil staining, while allowing substrate to properly breathe. It has a non-yellowing, long-lasting formula that will not change the surface appearance of your granite. Firstline is specifically designed to bond with quartz and silica materials inherent to granite and grout.