Four Hands ranked among fastest-growing private firms
By Furniture Today Staff -- Furniture Today, December 3, 2001
AUSTIN, Texas — Furniture and accessories importer Four Hands landed a spot on the Inc 500, an annual ranking by Inc magazine of the nation's fastest-growing private companies.
Four Hands was ranked No. 142 on the 2001 list by virtue of its 1,801% growth over the past five years, with sales ballooning from $370,000 in 1996 to $7 million in 2000. During that time, Four Hands' employment grew from four employees to 35.
The company's line includes case goods, accent furniture and leather. It's the only furniture company on the Inc list.
"It is quite an honor to be among the Top 500 fastest-growing private companies in America," said Brett Hatton, president and chief executive officer of Four Hands. "Commitment and attention to detail has allowed us to propel the company to the heights that it has reached since 1996."
The Inc 500 ranks U.S. entrepreneurial firms according to sales growth over the previous five years. Former names on the list that have gone on to become household words include Microsoft, Timberland, Domino's Pizza and Patagonia.
To be eligible, companies had to be independent and privately held through 2000, have at least $200,000 in sales in the base year 1996, and 2000 sales had to exceed 1999 sales. Holding companies, regulated banks and utilities are not eligible.
Inc verifies information using tax forms and financial statements from certified public accountants, and by interviewing company officials.
| Hatton |
