Nation deserves tribute for decades of service
David Perry, Executive Editor -- Furniture Today, December 16, 2007
Jim Nation is in an unusual position. The former Spring Air president and former chairman of the International Sleep Products Assn. is a man without portfolio these days. He's too young to retire from an industry he loves, an industry that has, generally speaking, been good to him.
I've been a big fan of Nation over the years. His steady leadership at Spring Air, which he headed for 12 years as president, was a constant in an industry swept by changes in executive suites. I can't think of a man who headed a licensee group for longer than Jim. During his tenure, Spring Air won kudos for product innovation and savvy marketing. He kept Spring Air moving forward despite very tough competition from much bigger producers.
Nation is a keen student of the industry. His decades of bedding experience give him a thorough understanding of all facets of the business, and his analysis of what is happening and why is invariably insightful.
In addition, Nation always is willing to talk candidly about the industry and its challenges. That separates him from some of his colleagues, who don't feel, for various reasons, they can say what really is on their minds.
Nation has many admirers in the industry. He was a good choice to help lead ISPA, which he served as vice chairman and then chairman. His sudden resignation as ISPA chairman last month, a decision ISPA said was for personal reasons, was a loss for the trade association, and for the industry.
Unfortunately, Nation's departure from Spring Air earlier in the year was not accompanied by the tributes he deserved. That's the kind of bad break that befalls some talented executives. But it doesn't erase the solid record of accomplishment that Nation built in decades of mattress service.
I know I speak for many when I say that Nation has been good for the bedding industry. He has given a lot, and he still has much to offer.
Meanwhile, things move forward as a year of change for Nation and the industry comes to a close. The holidays are a time to focus on family and friends. It's also a time to give thanks, and to look forward to a new year.
We are thankful for the long friendship we have enjoyed with Jim Nation. Happy holidays to you and your family, Jim. We hope 2008 brings you some exciting opportunities.
Contact David Perry at dperry@reedbusiness.com
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