Underwhelmed by New Spring Products

[mscharf]

I'm so glad you said this! I've NEVER eaten a fresh mango and I don't know how often I will. I haven't looked to see about the availability in our area, but it wouldn't surprise me if they aren't. There are a lot of the ingredients that are used for recipes aren't a regular item for us.

I would actually be willing to trade the Mango Wedger that I earned for a Scoop 'n Drain. LOL! That is something that I will definitely use on a regular basis. :chef:

OHHHH, TRY ONE!! I was very excited when I saw this, especially paired with the avacado peeler! I love mango, but you have to peel it, deseed, and then chop. I love these simple 2 step.

We used to love this restaurant in South Fl called Mango's. Don't think it is still there, but they made a MANGO CHICKEN, and it was sooo YUMMY. I make it at home a lot, it is simply grilled chicken breasts with cold mango chunks on top! I think we will try this with the chicken done with Chili Lime rub this week! YUMMY.

 

[wadesgirl]

Mini scoop and measure.......yeah right


Cook books....yes and yes. I wonder how that should impact our providing the Ebook??

I have the pink Mini Scoop and Measures in all of my flour, sugar, etc containers. I don't really use them for every day use but they work perfect for this.

I will still send out the ebooks because there are so many more recipes in them. But I will encourage the new cookbook because it does have great recipes in it and I'm not typing them all out!

 

[Myra_gourmet_chick]

I used the MFP within 1/2 hour of opening the box. It was AWESOME! I think I am going to prefer it over the Food Chopper! GASP! I know...blasphemy, right!

 

[pampered.chris]

I am so glad that I didn't know about the products before I got them. When the FedEx guy showed up on my door yesterday I was so excited!!! I am really impressed with the items that I earned on Level 1 of SAT. I agree with those that said, this is the best Level 1 EVER!
I am impressed with the DCB cookbook and have the chicken pot pie recipe in the oven now, I am also loving the SB, my DD is going to be making the choc-pb crunch bars tonight to give to her friends at school tomorrow for V-day.
I LOVE the mini mix and scraper, it is absolutely adorable and I can't wait to place my order for more!
I am also impressed with some of the new pictures in the catalog, I love how the stoneware is displayed.
I am super excited for my March shows!!

 

[darlinclem]

OHHHH, TRY ONE!! I was very excited when I saw this, especially paired with the avacado peeler! I love mango, but you have to peel it, deseed, and then chop. I love these simple 2 step.

Someone please tell me how you use the avacado peeler with the mango wedger. Here in rural KS we don't use mango much and I don't have a clue I did make the cool chicken tacos for many shows so know the mango a bit but that was my first time using them fresh.

 

[wadesgirl]

I am so glad that I didn't know about the products before I got them. When the FedEx guy showed up on my door yesterday I was so excited!!! I am really impressed with the items that I earned on Level 1 of SAT. I agree with those that said, this is the best Level 1 EVER!
I am impressed with the DCB cookbook and have the chicken pot pie recipe in the oven now, I am also loving the SB, my DD is going to be making the choc-pb crunch bars tonight to give to her friends at school tomorrow for V-day.
I LOVE the mini mix and scraper, it is absolutely adorable and I can't wait to place my order for more!
I am also impressed with some of the new pictures in the catalog, I love how the stoneware is displayed.
I am super excited for my March shows!!

We've picked out half the recipes in the DCB cookbook to make but I vetoed the bacon stuffed meatloaf!!

 

[wadesgirl]

Someone please tell me how you use the avacado peeler with the mango wedger. Here in rural KS we don't use mango much and I don't have a clue I did make the cool chicken tacos for many shows so know the mango a bit but that was my first time using them fresh.

After you slice the mango you can use the avacado peeler to slice the fruit off the skin.

 

[dannyzmom]

Is it just me, or are the "new" products not that great?

I am happy that everything I really want is all open stock on the sample order form as I did not earn anything through SAT. I'm actually bummed about that for once. Generally, I have not been impressed with what I was earning. This is the first time I have ever seen the SAT best products in the lowest level earning. That's a good idea and would motivate more of us to try harder IMHO.

The much hyped MFP to me is a huge letdown. I had one of those years ago (though not EXACTLY the same, close enough) that I gave away because I didn't use it. It was given to me as a Christmas gift when those things first came out. I really think the Food Chopper does the same thing, but I will most likely buy it because my husband is sensitive to noise and HATES the Food Chopper because it is noisy.

I AM excited about the Microplane Coarse grater. Finally I can grate cheese without digging out my UM or the old Ultimate Slice & Grate. It's a larger grating surface too. I also like the Scoop 'N Drain, the Mini Mix 'N Scraper, and the new cookbooks.


I find it VERY silly that they made a big deal out of retiring all the cranberry stuff last season and introducing new colors only to go immediately back to cranberry.

Just my opinion. What does everyone else think?

Your negativity will carry over to your shows if you're not careful. YOU may not love all the new products (or any of them) but many of your customers will be superexcited. Don't ruin it for them.

 

[Becca_in_MD]

We've picked out half the recipes in the DCB cookbook to make but I vetoed the bacon stuffed meatloaf!!

What?!? That's about the only one in there that looked good to me, but no way will I make it. Too fatty. But my DH and I can go all Homer Simpson over bacon.

 

[Becca_in_MD]

I can't keep my silence. I am underwhelmed again this season. I guess I got spoiled with seasons where we came out with 60 new products and had things that really got people excited about hosting. I don't feel there's anything really enticing repeat hosts to host again. Maybe the MFP will do it. I'm not convinced - yet. But so few new products without a lot of technical background make the change over easy - not much to learn, not much to remember that has been discontinued. I don't even feel I'll need to change my show recipes. Just need to figure out how to incorporate the MFP, b/c I will make it my best buddy for the next couple of weeks since it's in both the March and April host bonuses. And I am excited about the HWC products, not for personal use but b/c I think they will sell well and PC went away from the dots to the zebra stripes.

Do I carry this underwhelmed attitude to my shows? NO!! I don't think the other posters will, either. As had been said in this thread and others, some like some things, some like others. That's why I'm on here. I want to hear about what other people love, why, and what they use it for. When a customer asks about the drain and scoop, I don't want my response to be "it's great for cleaning out kitty litter" (thanks, Jean Jonas, for putting THAT in my head!). I don't like coconut. If people love the Coconut Lime Sauce and give lots of ideas for using it, then I can pass along those ideas even though I have no intention of opening that jar until it becomes a guest special.

We can differentiate between personal use and show use. Maybe that's how we need to start all of our responses: "for me personally, I love xxx." or "I have a group of customers who will love yyy."

 

[ChefBeckyD]

What?!? That's about the only one in there that looked good to me, but no way will I make it. Too fatty. But my DH and I can go all Homer Simpson over bacon.

Mmmmm....so glad we have completely eschewed the whole low-fat eating deal, and are now eating a more Traditional diet. We can have all the healthy fat we want! The Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf is on my menu plan for this week!

 

[Becca_in_MD]

Mmmmm....so glad we have completely eschewed the whole low-fat eating deal, and are now eating a more Traditional diet. We can have all the healthy fat we want! The Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf is on my menu plan for this week!

I want to hear about this one! Have a slice for me! I also can't do it b/c my daughter won't eat the mushrooms and I'm not sure she'd do meatloaf at all. My son doesn't eat much of anything I cook so making something for just the 2 of us doesn't cut it for me. My husband eats enough steak that I don't need to put more beef in him. I'm just that not into beef. My grandmother was not a good cook and made horrible meatloaf, which may have been the only thing she knew how to make b/c that's what she made when we went for dinner. I'm excited about any meatloaf that's not hers! Hope this one lives up to the picture.

 

[DessertDivaFL]

In keeping with things positive...I am excited about the new 1/2 price combos with the Scrapers and the Grilling Collection.

I also like that they changed the colors back to cranberry and white instead of the eggplant, pumpkin orange and lime. I had so many customer say those colors are from the 60's and they prayed those colors would not return.

My favorite new product has got to be that Deep Covered Baker Recipe Collection and the Mini Mix 'n Scraper is just so cute!

 

[wadesgirl]

Okay got to play with some of the new products today!MFP - we made salsa but because we passed it around too much in the first step (after adding cilantro, onion and pepper) it was hard to get the tomatoes incorporated enough without pulverizing them. So we redid it and only coursely chopped the first part and it was perfect.The veggie wedger - we did onions, tomatoes, green pepper, oranges, grapefruit, and apple. I actually liked it better for the apple because I always feel like I'm going to lose a finger with the apple wedger! I was thinking it has just a straight blade function but that blade is something crazy! It has serrates on it and has a pokey blade that helps to pierce the food before it slices.Mango wedger - worked pretty good.Mini scraper - too cute!! Worked perfect for the MFP.

 

[wadesgirl]

Mmmmm....so glad we have completely eschewed the whole low-fat eating deal, and are now eating a more Traditional diet. We can have all the healthy fat we want! The Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf is on my menu plan for this week!

Yes we are more of a traditional/good fat family.

 

[KitchenSmellzSmokey]

Well I have to add my .02 cents worth. I am COMPLETELY underwhelmed with the new products. I was SO excited to see what would "revolutionize" the way we do our shows. It was so much hype and they gave us something Tupperware already has? There's a reason I didn't buy it from Tupperware. AND it costs $49???

Yes, yes, yes I know most will get on me about my negativity. But I couldn't speak my mind at Spring Launch, so I'm feeling free to do it here.

My customers already have most of the new products already! They're just a different color, a different size etc. Don't get me wrong, I totally LOVE the Pampered Chef company. I love how they treat us and our customers. However, I am so disappointed with the "replacement" products. These are not new products we have this season. It's ridiculous to have so many of the same type of products. The biggest selling pitch was that our tools are multi-functional. If they are, then why on earth do they need 3 different wedgers? Why do they need 4 different graters. Come ON! I don't think I can hide my disappointment from my customers. Because of this, I'm taking a break from PC. Maybe I'm just burned out, maybe it's time for a new job. $100,000(roughly speaking) of sales with repetitive products to go to Italy? I just don't know about that. Maybe I'll get over it, but right now, count me out. = (

 

[WendyE]

And pound, pound, pound, pound and pound can be replaced by several whirs - I am all for it!

I'm thrilled that I can replace pound pound pound, with whirs! I have a carpel tunnel like condition and everytime I'd hit that food chopper it would send sharp pains up my arms. I would stand there at a show and smile and say "see, wasn't that easy!" all he while praying didn't need to pound it again! I think there are many people with strength issues in there hands, so the MFP will be great for them. It also seems to do more than the chopper since it doesn't crush delicate things like herbs and tomatoes.

 

[wadesgirl]

I'm thrilled that I can replace pound pound pound, with whirs! I have a carpel tunnel like condition and everytime I'd hit that food chopper it would send sharp pains up my arms. I would stand there at a show and smile and say "see, wasn't that easy!" all he while praying didn't need to pound it again! I think there are many people with strength issues in there hands, so the MFP will be great for them. It also seems to do more than the chopper since it doesn't crush delicate things like herbs and tomatoes.

We discovered that it's actually slightly easier to push the handle away from you with your left hand than it is to "pull" it towards you with your right hand.

 

[babywings76]

Well I have to add my .02 cents worth. I am COMPLETELY underwhelmed with the new products. I was SO excited to see what would "revolutionize" the way we do our shows. It was so much hype and they gave us something Tupperware already has? There's a reason I didn't buy it from Tupperware. AND it costs $49???

Yes, yes, yes I know most will get on me about my negativity. But I couldn't speak my mind at Spring Launch, so I'm feeling free to do it here.

My customers already have most of the new products already! They're just a different color, a different size etc. Don't get me wrong, I totally LOVE the Pampered Chef company. I love how they treat us and our customers. However, I am so disappointed with the "replacement" products. These are not new products we have this season. It's ridiculous to have so many of the same type of products. The biggest selling pitch was that our tools are multi-functional. If they are, then why on earth do they need 3 different wedgers? Why do they need 4 different graters. Come ON! I don't think I can hide my disappointment from my customers. Because of this, I'm taking a break from PC. Maybe I'm just burned out, maybe it's time for a new job. $100,000(roughly speaking) of sales with repetitive products to go to Italy? I just don't know about that. Maybe I'll get over it, but right now, count me out. = (

I guess I'm confused. How long have you been with PC? You obviously care enough about your business or PC in general to have taken the time out and money spent on attending Spring Launch. Now you want to throw it all out the window? What's that saying...Don't throw the baby out with the bathwater?!

I'm not trying to jump all over you, because everyone has a story, a history, a reason for their feelings, and you are entitled to them. But just try to consider things before completely throwing your business away.

First off, you really should give the products a fair chance before writing them off as not new. Our catalog has always had a bunch of things that you could find at Walmart/Target/etc. The difference is that ours have a reputation and guarantee behind them. Ours are higher quality, have been tested and evaluated to have better features and design than that of others on the market.

Not everyone might need or want 4 different graters, but by offering 4 different graters, you are finding something for everyone. Some people might just want a small and cheaper microplane fine grater for their Parmesan, so this new one is great for them. I personally love that I'm going to have a back-up parmesan grater around the house (because we are constantly using ours and inevitably it's in the dishwasher when I need it again...) I have been waiting forever it feels like for a real grater for cheddar/mozzarella block cheeses, so I'm SOOOO happy about the new coarse grater.

You have to remove your feelings on these products and open your mind a little to the possibility that your customers might be super excited about these products. But if you make it sound like they can just get the same thing somewhere else, well then...you've just sold yourself out of a business.

I hope you give things a chance. Get excited about the other products and focus on those. People will see the new ones in the catalog. You don't have to dwell on them if you don't want to.

 

[wadesgirl]

Well I have to add my .02 cents worth. I am COMPLETELY underwhelmed with the new products. I was SO excited to see what would "revolutionize" the way we do our shows. It was so much hype and they gave us something Tupperware already has? There's a reason I didn't buy it from Tupperware. AND it costs $49???

Yes, yes, yes I know most will get on me about my negativity. But I couldn't speak my mind at Spring Launch, so I'm feeling free to do it here.

My customers already have most of the new products already! They're just a different color, a different size etc. Don't get me wrong, I totally LOVE the Pampered Chef company. I love how they treat us and our customers. However, I am so disappointed with the "replacement" products. These are not new products we have this season. It's ridiculous to have so many of the same type of products. The biggest selling pitch was that our tools are multi-functional. If they are, then why on earth do they need 3 different wedgers? Why do they need 4 different graters. Come ON! I don't think I can hide my disappointment from my customers. Because of this, I'm taking a break from PC. Maybe I'm just burned out, maybe it's time for a new job. $100,000(roughly speaking) of sales with repetitive products to go to Italy? I just don't know about that. Maybe I'll get over it, but right now, count me out. = (

Have you had your hands on and tried the new products? Looked through the new cookbooks? We tried the veggie wedger last night and it was awesome! We did oranges, grapefruit, onion, apple (much better than the apple wedger) and green pepper. It is so versatile that it will be a great addition to any home. The MFP may not be for everyone but the people who get it will love it. The mango wedger is sort of like the pineapple wedger to me... yes you can do it by hand but it is so much simpiler to do it with the wedger. Bar tongs are cheap and a great addition to any kitchen not just to use for drinks.

The problem with your business may not be the new products. Really take a look at why you like this business and what has kept you going this time. The new products just might be an excuse for you to let it go - which is perfectly fine, not everybody has to make this a lifetime thing. But I highly suggest to get your hands on the new products. Find a friend or director who got them and ask if you can play around!

 

[cincychef]

Well said Amanda!

Not everyone might need or want 4 different graters, but by offering 4 different graters, you are finding something for everyone. Some people might just want a small and cheaper microplane fine grater for their Parmesan, so this new one is great for them. I personally love that I'm going to have a back-up parmesan grater around the house (because we are constantly using ours and inevitably it's in the dishwasher when I need it again...) I have been waiting forever it feels like for a real grater for cheddar/mozzarella block cheeses, so I'm SOOOO happy about the new coarse grater.

Also, while not everyone needs 4 graters, I have all of our graters going back several styles and I use ALL of them! And I am happy to add the new ones to my collection. I am amazed every time I add a new tool to my kitchen that by having the right tool for the right job makes me :sing: and I would never go back to cooking without it again!

 

[The Pickler]

In keeping with things positive...I am excited about the new 1/2 price combos with the Scrapers and the Grilling Collection.

I also like that they changed the colors back to cranberry and white instead of the eggplant, pumpkin orange and lime. I had so many customer say those colors are from the 60's and they prayed those colors would not return.

My favorite new product has got to be that Deep Covered Baker Recipe Collection and the Mini Mix 'n Scraper is just so cute!

This made me giggle. When the Pumpkin and Sage came out this past Fall, my partner and I decided to redo our entire kitchen with those colors as accents.....and I ordered 2 dozen of the pumpkin microfiber towels....Thank goodness we never got around to repainting the kitchen.

I've decided though, that cranberry will be a good accent color now.

 

[chefa]

While the pumpkin, sage and eggplant were not my favs, I definitely like them better than cranberry and white. I'm sick of cranberry and would love to see some new colors or just make 'em all white so it matches everything!

 

[alabama pc cons.]

I used the MFP last night to chop grape tomatoes and onion for salsa and I LOVED it.... It works so much better than you would think.... I am really glad I earned it....

 

[sassypip]

I LOVE LOVE LOVE the new MFP! I made Fresh Pineapple salsa with it yesterday and it was so easy and I love how all the pieces are uniform. I am going to try the veggie wedger tonight to make homemade french fries in the oven. (CUt potatoes, coat in olive oil and sprinkle with favorite season and bake on large pan)Fabulous. HOw quick will that be to cut the potatoes! I have 6 kids, so anything that saves me time cooking is for me!
I have had several customers ask for a microplane grater for the softer cheese, so that will be a great seller for me as well. I also have heard somepostive feedback about the stone cookie sheet already too. My mom for one wants one. Also happy about the cranberry, but I have cranberry all through my house, so it works for us. Overall, I am extremely excited about everything. I earned all levels of SAT and at first thought I would not use some of the things, but am finding that I will. Like others have said, everyone has different tastes and needs, so that is what is so great about our company. There is something for everyone! I am looking forward to this spring/summer selling season and hope to blow the roof off my sales with the new products. I know I am going to try my best to do so!

 

[Barry Carlton]

One more thing why isn't there a guard/guide for the new MicroPlane.

 

[babywings76]

One more thing why isn't there a guard/guide for the new MicroPlane.

I don't think you need a food holder thing with this one. You're going to just grab your big ol' block of cheese and go to town. I don't even use the one w/ the microplane for parmesan. Maybe to grate chocolate or nuts or something so small I would. But with the coarse grater what would you grate that you'd want the food guide thing?

 

[Barry Carlton]

what about the last bit of whatever you are grating? Those little blades are sharp!!

 

[babywings76]

what about the last bit of whatever you are grating? Those little blades are sharp!!

I usually just break the last bits up with my fingers. If it's going on something to just get melted, by then it's usually thin and small enough to break up and it'll melt just fine.

 

[wadesgirl]

The other one does fit so it's a great cross sell if they already have the fine grater.