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Buhler combines cabinets with firebox inserts

Michael J. Knell -- Furniture Today, January 23, 2005

Toronto — Buhler Furniture took what might seem an obvious idea and made it into a "must-see" hit of the market here — combining an entertainment center or corner cabinet with a firebox insert.

"One of our retailers asked us to take the doors off one of our corner cabinets so they could put a firebox insert into it," said Robert Dueck, vice president of sales and marketing for the Winnipeg, Manitoba-based occasional and upholstery maker.

Since the first unit was delivered to Zimmerman's in Bismarck, N.D., just after the October High Point market, the store has ordered well over 100 units.

At last week's market, Buhler introduced the corner cabinet to its entire retail network and added a full-size entertainment center. The line is called the Bismarck collection in recognition of the city of the idea's originator.

"Every dealer who saw it this market bought it," Dueck said. "We're now looking at other applications for this idea. When things get tough, you have to get creative. I haven't seen people as excited about a new product for a long time."

Opening retail price points are C$2,799 for the corner unit and $3,999 for the entertainment center, including the firebox, which is supplied by Dimplex North America and Vermont Castings.

The firebox is shipped separately from the case piece. "But all the consumer has to do is take it out of the box and slide it into place," Dueck said, adding the fireboxes will heat a small room.

The case pieces are constructed in solids and veneers with 11 finish choices, including merlot and harvest oak. The hutch accommodates most 36-inch TVs, while the base has fully adjustable/removable glass shelves in its two storage compartments.

The entertainment center has four components: the firebox base, hutch and left and right tower. Each tower has a 25-watt light, fully adjustable glass shelves, and piano hinges on its doors. An optional TV riser for the hutch is offered.

Dueck said the line is ready to ship.

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Buhler combines cabinets with firebox inserts

Jan 27, 2005

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