Watch for familiar faces in new jobs, showrooms
Joan Gunin, Leather Editor -- Furniture Today, March 16, 2008
We're closing in on that hectic time of year again and my head is already spinning.
Since entering the textiles/furniture realm, I've reported on around 96 markets — in New York, New Jersey, North Carolina, Nevada, Mississippi, California, Canada, Germany, etc. I can't even say "give or take, a few" because believe me if I could give them, I would. Like you, I have worked them all.
That figure — 96 — is about double the number of Bruce Springsteen concerts I've attended. In April, I not only get to add one more market, but also another concert or two.
I will miss "New Jersey's own" performing at Giants Stadium this summer due to a conflict with the Las Vegas cycle. (Hmmm ... perhaps someone at the World Market Center will change those dates for me?)
But here's my point: When you're in High Point, be on the lookout for some familiar faces back out in the street, thanks to new jobs, new showrooms, new companies.
Looking at leather and motion upholstery, two categories I cover, here's my mixed bag of who's where:
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Cary Benson will participate in his first High Point Market since taking over as president of Natuzzi Americas. As his mother said, "You lived in North Carolina and worked for a Texas company. Now you live in Texas and work for a North Carolina firm. When will you get it right?" Now is the time, Cary. (Showing in High Point at 130 W. Commerce Ave.)
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Larry Crink, late of DeCoro, is now piloting PeopLoungers. He has set up shop at Center Point, 209.
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David Wormald is happy to be back in the saddle as leather merchandise manager at Lane Home Furnishings. (International Home Furnishings Center C-800)
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Kimberly Wilson has uprooted both Bentbrook Furniture — and her family — and set them down at The Atrium, space 314. (You go, girl!)
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John Sellers heads up Malss Noble, an upscale leather producer from China. Check out the elliptical four-piece sofa/chaise, not to mention the paint job. (IHFC D-504)
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Canada-based Amici55 by Coja, in collaboration with Europe's Dietiker Switzerland, reopens with fresh European designs. (IHFC D-745)
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Following a debut in Tupelo in February, Michael Parasmo opens Prestige Motion. (328 S. Main St.)
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Jim Mitchell, Lori Sadowski and McKinley Leather move around the block to a freestanding building. (416 N. Wrenn St.)
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You may see Jeff Baron strolling by as he lays the groundwork for Chinese upholstery producer Kuka's Las Vegas summer debut.
As for me, I'll be on a bench somewhere rubbing my feet and humming to myself.
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Watch for familiar faces in new jobs, showrooms
Mar 16, 2008
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