Complex sentence: In 1996 and 1997, Sunbeam reported massive increases in sales for its various backyard and kitchen items, but the sudden surge in demand for barbecues didn't hold up under scrutiny.
Split into simpler sentences: In 1996 and 1997, Sunbeam reported massive increases in sales for its various backyard and kitchen items. The sudden surge in demand for barbecues did not hold up under scrutiny.