Furniture First debuts new services
By Tom Edmonds -- Furniture Today, August 5, 2002
PROVIDENCE , R.I. — PROVIDENCE , R.I. — Buying cooperative Furniture First unveiled a new bedding program and announced several expanded member services at its third annual symposium here.
The eight-year-old, member-owned group, made up of midsized, midpriced furniture retailers, also celebrated a significant milestone as its membership reached 100 companies. Furniture First now has about 200 storefronts with combined annual sales of about $750 million.
At the symposium, speakers covered sales and management issues, and members discussed group programs.
The event also included a tour of the distinctive Rotmans furniture and carpet store in nearby Worcester, Mass. The store sprawls through several former mill buildings, which creates interesting retail challenges as well architectural delights. The dealers seemed most impressed with the Rotmans commitment to attractive display and a stimulating retail entertainment.
Another evening was devoted to a show of product from importers who supply Furniture First retailers, who can buy full containers or partial loads that can be split with other members. About two dozen furniture suppliers set up displays in the Rhode Island Convention Center for the symposium's Container Night (see story on facing page).
According to the retailers attending — about 50 companies sent owners or managers — the networking and best-idea sessions were the most valuable parts of the symposium, more than justifying the travel expense and the three-plus days away from the store.
