England buys Englander
La-Z-Boy subsidiary gets name, trademarks
By Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, August 5, 2002
MONROE , Mich. — MONROE , Mich. — La-Z-Boy subsidiary England Inc. has acquired the Englander Sleep Products name and trademarks from Schottenstein Stores of Columbus, Ohio, for an undisclosed sum.
"England began making a patented bedding system about a year ago, and has been distributing it through its in-store Custom Comfort Center dealer network," said Jerry Kaiser, La-Z-Boy president and chief executive officer. "We've been very pleased with the reception, and adding the highly recognized Englander name will enhance the marketability of the line."
Englander, founded in 1894, is No. 7 on Furniture/Today's list of top conventional bedding makers, with 2001 sales of $101 million. Englander product has been made by 15 licensed manufacturing and distribution centers, including four international locations. The sale will not affect the licensees.
La-Z-Boy has named David Clark to the new post of vice president, bedding, with responsibility for merchandising and marketing the Englander line for England. Clark has 20 years of merchandising and sales management experience, including 17 years with Simmons in Atlanta. He most recently was vice president, sales and marketing for Ashley Furniture.
Rod England, president of England, said, "The Englander name will give us increased access to national distribution and manufacturing capabilities, two key ingredients in helping us expand this segment of our business."
