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Smith, others let go as Berkline/BenchCraft realigns

By Joan Gunin -- Furniture Today, September 9, 2007

Morristown, Tenn. — Larry Smith, senior vice president of sales, marketing and merchandising for Berkline/BenchCraft, was among some 40 people let go from Berkline/BenchCraft last week as part of a corporate restructuring.

Dennis Carper, senior vice president of human resources, confirmed Smith was dismissed "as part of a restructuring move."

Taking over Smith's responsibilities is Dal Eckard, executive vice president of sales and marketing and a principal in the company with President and CEO Bill Wittenberg. Sun Capital acquired a majority stake in the company in May.

Smith was with Berkline for 18 years. He began his industry career at fabric supplier Milliken in 1978.

"I am proud of Berkline," Smith said. "They have shown great resolve in their people and this company, and when it comes time to stand strong, they will prevail. I have nothing but appreciation and gratitude for the opportunity to serve and be a part of this great company."

Carper said the company also eliminated the jobs of 40 employees "primarily in support departments."

In the past 18 months, Berkline/BenchCraft has closed three facilities in Tennessee and Mississippi. Wittenberg said the "workforce adjustment" would streamline management and better align functional areas within the company.

He said the company determined it had too many management levels after consolidating manufacturing operations between its Tennessee and Mississippi locations.

Currently, its production facilities consist of two large upholstery plants in Blue Mountain, Miss., and Morristown, Tenn.

"At one time, we had three additional smaller facilities that required more management oversight. We have eliminated a layer of management one level below the executive level, which will facilitate the direct involvement of our senior management team," Wittenberg said.

"Our reductions at this level eliminated several long service associates, including Larry Smith. We appreciate his contributions over the years and wish him the very best."

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Senior VP Smith leaves Berkline/BenchCraft

Sep 7, 2007

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