Standard Furniture, Kathy Ireland end partnership
Had been together since late 2001
Tom Russell -- Furniture Today, February 17, 2009
BAY MINETTE, Ala. — Kathy Ireland World Wide and case goods manufacturer and importer Standard Furniture have ended a partnership that dates back to late 2001.
The companies announced Tuesday that the partnership has ended effective immediately.
"Our partnership has been very rewarding," Standard Chairman Billy Hodgson said in a statement. "Together we sold a lot of great furniture. Kathy is a great person."
Todd Evans, Standard's vice president of sales and marketing, said the company and Kathy Ireland Worldwide had been discussing exiting the partnership for more than a year.
"Standard Furniture regrets, but understands KIWW's desire to reach a different place at this moment of their growth," Evans added in a statement. "It is a sad but powerful day for both companies. Kathy and her team are wonderful people. We are grateful that they agreed to wait until after the Las Vegas Market to announce the decision."
Officials with the companies were unavailable for comment this morning.
In a statement, Kathy Ireland, chair, CEO and chief designer of Kathy Ireland Worldwide, said Standard Furniture "will always have a special place in our hearts. They contributed mightily to the success of KI Home."
The two companies said they will work with customers to ensure a smooth transition until a replacement furniture partner is announced. Kathy Ireland officials said they will make that announcement soon.
Separately, KIWW announced it has named Stephen Roseberry president and chief operations officer.
Kathy Ireland continues to maintain its partnership with case goods manufacturer and importer Martin Furniture.
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Ireland, Standard split
Feb 23, 2009
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