Diversity will strengthen Furniture Hall of Fame
Jerry Epperson, An insider's view -- Furniture Today, February 9, 2009
I still remember the evening I was honored by being elected to the American Furniture Hall of Fame. Whether I was chosen or not, being nominated had allowed me to hear from friends and clients who called or wrote to congratulate me, and that was the most fun. Being elected was a surprise because I am not a manufacturer, retailer, sales rep or a supplier in the traditional sense. I guess I am in the “other” category.
I have enjoyed nominating people to the Hall of Fame as well because it was a way to both recognize them for their work and thank them too.
Today's American Furniture Hall of Fame Foundation is striving to be more, by recognizing a broader mix of the individuals who have made our industry strong.
In my opinion, we need more retailers of all sizes. I love to hear the stories behind retail successes, usually achieved by not doing what everyone else has.
We need more foreign manufacturers and importers. The first was just elected, Pasquale Natuzzi, and his acceptance speech was insightful and touching. I know a half dozen others who deserve this honor today.
We need more reps. Yes, reps tend to be more regional but the leaders are there and need to be recognized. Where would we be without them? Besides, they are the most colorful group in our industry.
We need to include the mattress industry because it is so very important to the overall success of the home furnishings sector. There are many mattress manufacturers and specialty retailers that deserve recognition. The same is true for accessories.
Designers are underrepresented, as are the inventors and the suppliers, all of who have greatly impacted our industry. (Even so, I refuse to nominate Louis Philippe.)
Finally, we need to include more women because I am convinced they will be the key to our industry's success in the future. Honoring their accomplishments today will help attract more women to the industry in the future.
I feel an urgency for the American Furniture Hall of Fame Foundation to grow because as each year passes, we lose more of our leaders. In addition to honoring our industry's leaders, the Hall of Fame is doing extensive interviews and hopes to have oral histories available so we can all learn from these great individuals.
Please join the Hall of Fame Foundation. This allows you to nominate and vote for the nominees. It is a small investment to assure our industry's future.
You can learn more about the AFHF at its Web site, www.furniturehalloffame.com, or by calling (336) 882-5900.
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