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Caber Distributors acquires slipcover source Sure Fit

Company also owns Protect-A-Bed, other brands

Michael Knell -- Furniture Today, February 8, 2010

MARKHAM, Ontario — Caber Distributors has acquired slipcover specialist Sure Fit Home Furnishings. The new company will be called Caber Sure Fit Inc.

Caber president Bernard Weinstein said Sure Fit's operations, staff and merchandising programs will be merged with his firm's operations, which include the Protect-A-Bed brand of mattress protectors as well as several other value-added products such as the BedCare mattress warranty, the Diamond-Kote furniture protection plan and P3 Performance protection plan for appliances.

Based in Ajax, Ontario, Sure Fit has been manufacturing slipcovers for upholstered sofas and chairs in a variety of styles, fabrics and colors since 1959. The slipcovers are made in China, India and Pakistan, although Weinstein indicated he is looking to resume production in Canada, at least in a small way.

"Straight away, I recognized the amazing synergy between Caber and Sure Fit," Weinstein said. "Both companies are market leaders, share the same corporate vision, and understand the importance of acquiring and maintaining a superb reputation in the marketplace. To constantly provide excellent customer service and innovative, high quality products are the common goals that have shaped our organizations."

Sure Fit retailers include national chains, such as Sears Canada, as well as smaller retailers and home décor stores.

"Customers from a wide range of demographics use Sure Fit to protect their upholstered furniture from damage while, at the same time, solve a decorating problem and make an exciting design statement," said Weinstein.

Sure Fit President Stephen Barry will be retained in a consulting role for the next eight to 12 months and will continue to operate Sure Fit's outlet store in Ajax. Caber has granted him a license to continue using the Sure Fit name for that location only.

Weinstein said Caber will retain the Sure Fit brand and will also begin marketing the product in hospitality and healthcare channels and may also begin promoting the line to independent furniture stores. Historically, Sure Fit has had a strong following in the linen retail channel, which Caber sees a growth area. Sure Fit's access to national retail accounts should also prove beneficial for Caber's other product lines, particularly the Protect-A-Bed mattress pads, he said.

Caber will also keep the Sure Fit Web site as well as most of its existing employees and sales staff, he said.

In addition to furniture stores, health care and hospitality, Caber is also active in the pest control and property management channels.

Weinstein said further acquisitions are a possibility for the company.

"Our goal was always full coverage - if there's a product that can be covered, we'll do it," he said. "So far, we're covering mattresses with our protectors, sheets, pillows, duvets, as well as our BedCare warranty. Furthermore, we've covering furniture and appliances. Now, we're covering sofas and chairs with Sure Fit. When we advise our customers to get under the covers with us, we really mean it."

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Caber acquires Sure Fit

Feb 15, 2010

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