High Point Market Fall 2008: Straight Line Resources expands leather offerings

Includes 24 new frames in its Novo Home brand

Chris Schultz -- Furniture Today, October 21, 2008

AT THE MARKET - Straight Line Resources International, the global sourcing company that made its debut at the last High Point Market, is returning to this week's High Point Market with an expanded assortment of leather upholstery including 24 new frames in its recently trademarked Novo Home North America brand.

According to President and CEO Joe Savovic, the new frames, which are slated to retail from $799 to $1,999, include contemporary sectionals, motion and stationary upholstery.

"The factory making these frames was originally set up by one of the better-known Italian producers, but now, under a proprietary agreement with the supplier, we have captive product development and production for the North American market," Savovic said.

The new frames feature top-grain leathers, a 15-year frame warranty, lifetime warranty on all mechanisms and a three-year warranty against manufacturing defects.

Knowing that credit is an increasing issue for many retailers, Savovic said the company has put a seamless trade flow finance mechanism in place with a factor based in China that will provide 60-day terms from issuance of import documents.

"This is particularly important when looking at the overall financial landscape of how money and products flow to our dealers," he said.

To further serve dealers, SLR is offering mixed containers from a warehouse in Fujian, China.

"This allows us to give dealers the flexibility to marry leathers on several frames while providing them with an average 30-day delivery from receipt of orders beginning next January," Savovic said.

As a means of cultivating repeat sales, SLR also is launching a Customer Reward program that will give the consumer's family and friends a substantial discount on a three-piece group if purchased within 12 months of the initial purchase.

SLR International also will also open its first distribution center next month in Martinsville, Va. At market, the company is showing in Center Point, space 204.