Sales of heat, ice packs chilly

While sales of heat and ice packs are relatively flat — the category generated slight growth of 0.2% to $235.9 million for the 52 weeks ended April 20 across total U.S. multi-outlets, according to IRI — there has been some positive momentum within the category.



HeatMax’s hand-warming Hothands product has collectively garnered $29.9 million in sales (up 32.1%), claiming the No. 2 spot in the category. No. 1 within the heat and ice pack category is Pfizer’s ThermaCare brand, which generated $59.4 million (down 4.5%).



TheraPearl is another brand to watch. Recently acquired by Performance Health, TheraPearl generated $5.6 million in sales on growth of 55.3%. “TheraPearl brings proven strength and additional scale to our emerging retail business,” said Marshall Dahneke, president and CEO of Performance Health. “The alignment for us is both natural and exciting.”



Also on the horizon is Arctic Ease, bringing to market a cold compress wrap that stays on while active and doesn’t require refrigeration. “Unlike other treatments where 20 minutes more or less is what you’re going to get out of something frozen, this can last up to two hours,” Peter Costello, president and COO of the company, said. “So you’re getting long-lasting relief.”



Arctic Ease recently announced a three-year partnership with Ironman, where the product will be integrated into the Ironman North American triathlon series.