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Furniture|Today > Archives > 04/24/2006 Issue
Table of Contents
Furniture|Today -- 04/24/2006

Bedding Today
  • Bedding resources bust out in new spring showrooms
    The spring market is being held against a backdrop of blooming azaleas and daffodils. Nature is starting afresh, and so are some new bedding players in High Point. Bursting out in new quarters this market are a visco-elastic bedding producer, a mattress protection supplier, an Italian importer, a 101-year-old North Carolina-based bed maker, and the original "T" brand.

Editor's Desk
  • What you see as market hits
    I always marvel at the High Point market's sheer size and scope. Like buyers, we journalists must see as much as possible. No small feat for our feet. We polled retailers, reps and suppliers about the styles and design trends they believe will be best sellers this market. The informal Internet survey drew responses from some 85 retailers, 89 reps and 85 suppliers.

Industry Numbers
  • Stanley 1st qtr. sales flat
    Stanleytown, Va.— Major case goods resource Stanley Furniture said first-quarter sales were essentially flat as net income declined 6.4%, due mainly to operational inefficiencies and lower production. The company, which generates about two-thirds of its revenues from domestically made goods, said the sales weakness was particularly evident in March.
  • CFC's 2005 sales up 9.5%, profits down 25%
    Chicago Heights, Ill.— Specialty coatings supplier CFC International said sales rose 9.5% in 2005, but net income declined 25% due to a series of one-time charges. The company said sales totaled $90.4 million for the year, up from $82.6 million in 2004. Net income in 2005 came to $3 million, or 65 cents per share, compared with $4 million, or 90 cents per share, the previous year.
  • HSBC renews credit program at Storehouse
    Prospect Heights, Ill.— HSBC Retail Services has signed a multi-year agreement renewing its credit program with contemporary retailer Storehouse. The Top 100 chain, based in Atlanta and owned by The Rowe Companies, has used HSBC for 15 years. HSBC provides Storehouse customers with a private-label credit card, and they also receive customized financing and advanced notice of sales and spe...

Insider's View
  • How potential retail rivals see furniture store universe
    Lots of retailers are trying to be more homelike these days. The coffee shops and bookstores have had comfortable seating for their clientele for years, but recently Gap stores have been putting in sofas, and so have some McDonald's. Everyone wants the customer to stay longer and relax. Well, almost everyone.

News
  • Old World charm, New World comfort
    Two distinct design directions are being pursued by furniture sources bringing out new case goods and upholstery this market. The first is simple, youthful, lifestyle contemporary, distinguished by its clean lines, fresh colors and comfortable livability. The second is Old World/Italian, ornately carved wood and embellished upholstery that evokes the feeling of a European country villa.
  • Next F/T Leadership Conference set for Nov. 28–30
    High Point— Furniture/Today's 10th annual Leadership Conference is set for Nov. 28–30 at the Ritz-Carlton in Naples, Fla. The conference is switching from a Wednesday-to-Friday run to a Tuesday-to-Thursday format. Editor in chief Ray Allegrezza said the change will meet the needs of attendees who want to return home by Friday.
  • MMPI helps Sigla get back on feet with showroom space
    High Point— When the 5,000-square-foot Sigla Furniture showroom at 112 S. Elm St. flooded in late March, company President Ben Bakian thought he wouldn't have much of a market this April. Because of the extensive damage, he couldn't reopen the building in time for market and planned to show new product in a tent on an adjacent parking lot.
  • Ruggiero designs in bloom at Sunbrella
    High Point— Home furnishings designer Joe Ruggiero is launching his largest-ever introduction of original designs in Sunbrella performance fabrics at the market here. The new fabrics are being featured on his upholstery designs at Norwalk Furniture during the market. "Since the initial introduction in 2002, our Sunbrella collection has been growing rapidly, and this market represents our ...
  • Latexco sets U.S. facility
    Lavonia, Ga.— Latexco, the Belgian-based latex foam supplier, is putting its stakes in the ground here, eyeing a major expansion of its U.S. business. The producer has taken temporary space in a 50,000-square-foot facility in Toccoa, Ga., where it has started fabricating and distributing latex foams produced in Belgium and Spain.
  • Marcovaldo opens N.Y. showroom
    New York— Fabric and trim supplier Marcovaldo has opened an East Coast showroom here at 261 5th Avenue. Allon Yaghoubi, general manager, said the New York showroom is open to the trade by appointment. The company's headquarters and warehouse remain in Los Angeles. Marcovaldo specializes in fabric and trim sourced mainly from Turkey and East Asia, including silks, chenilles and jacquards.
  • Magnussen re-entering entertainment in big way
    At the Market— Magnussen Home is returning to the entertainment furniture category in a big way this market, devoting more than 4,000 square feet of its showroom to a new lineup of 17 home entertainment groups at promotional to medium price points. The company, best known as a bedroom, dining room and occasional resource, believes the popularity of flat-screen televisions will boost deman...
  • Japanese honor 30 designers
    Asahikawa, Japan— Japan's largest wood furniture design competition has awarded prizes to 30 designers from around the world. The awards were announced following the International Furniture Design Fair Asahikawa 2005, held in May. Judges selected 10 award winners and 20 finalists from among 909 applicants from 43 countries.
  • Hooker launches rattan collection
    Martinsville, Va.— Case goods and occasional furniture source Hooker Furniture is launching its first rattan collection at the April High Point market. The midpriced Sunset Key collection offers 40-pieces related to bedroom, dining, occasional and entertainment needs. The casually styled line, constructed of rattan hardwoods and twill, includes such accessories as a serving cart, magazine...
  • Great Priced gets exclusive for Leather Italia online
    Wilmington, N.C.— Internet retailer Great Priced Furniture, based here, has signed a two-year agreement to be the exclusive Internet seller of leather upholstery from importer Leather Italia U.S.A. Great Priced Furniture has carried Leather Italia since July 2005. The retailer also offers leather upholstery from Coaster and Kathy Ireland Home by Standard on its Web site at www.
  • Whitewood debuts Bombé Bedroom
    High Point— If a chest in an Art Nouveau-inspired bombé style sells well, why not a whole bedroom? Whitewood Inds. is putting that question to the test this market with its entry into a new product category with the Bombé Bedroom collection of about a dozen pieces. The collection, imported from Vietnam, is done in solid Norwegian spruce and features euro-glide drawer mechanisms.
  • Shermag to consolidate distribution operations
    Sherbrooke, Quebec— Manufacturer and importer Shermag plans to open a 350,000-square-foot distribution center in Montreal by the end of this summer, consolidating operations now in three facilities. Separately, the company said it has secured interim sawing capacity to replace a sawmill lost in a fire, with no interruption in its domestic furniture production.
  • Arizona rep group honors Michael Alan
    Lake Havasu City, Ariz.— The Arizona Home Furnishing Representatives Assn. has named Michael Alan Furniture, based here, as its Arizona Furniture Retailer of the Year for 2005. The retailer was honored for its dedication to the home furnishing industry, its respect for the efforts of sales representatives, its honesty in advertising, its customer service and service to the community.
  • Lazar Inds. introducing 3 collections
    High Point— Contemporary upholstery maker Lazar Inds. is debuting two collections here created by designer Stanley Jay Friedman, and another new collection by designer Tom Kennedy. "The Friedman collection is a strong marriage of design and affordability," said Darrin Royer, Lazar's vice president of merchandising.
  • G&J Styles adds antiqued leather
    High Point— G&J Styles, a traditional furniture company established in England and now based in High Point, is adding antiqued leather upholstery pieces to its line this market. The collection has an Old World feel that plays into the importer's 26-year-old line of medium-priced traditional and formal case goods and upholstery, said Sam Egan, sales and marketing manager.
  • Kingsdown opens stores in Thailand, New Zealand
    Mebane, N.C.— Thailand and New Zealand are the latest countries to join Kingsdown's fold. As the Top 10 bedding producer moves into its second century, international opportunities beckon for a company founded here in 1904 on the second floor of an old mill building. Kingsdown's international sales division has announced the opening of stores in Thailand and New Zealand.
  • U.K.-based Breasley debuting China-made leather uph. here
    High Point— Breasley USA is making its North American debut at the market here with contemporary and transitional leather upholstery imported from China. Breasley USA CEO John Craig said the company is the newly created marketing and distribution arm of Breasley Consumer Products Ltd., an established firm in the United Kingdom.
  • Rowe's Archer will examine desire for color
    High Point— Amy Archer, creative director of Rowe Furniture's Robin Bruce upholstery line and a nationally known sales team motivator and consumer behaviorist, will speak at a studiorowe reception during the market here on Thursday, April 27. She will discuss "Why Your Customers Want Color," citing research on consumer shopping habits indicating that homeowners are looking for color optio...
  • Cristina, Pulaski raise money for Hispanic charities
    Pulaski, Va.— When Spanish-language TV host Cristina Saralegui appeared at retailer Marlo Furniture in Rockville, Md., not only did she introduce her Casa Cristina furniture collection, she raised money for a local charity. Sponsored by Pulaski, which makes the furniture, the appearance was one of the first in a series of events this year to promote the new line.
  • Hickory Hill adds leather
    High Point— As part of a new married program, Hickory Hill is launching the first leather line to carry its brand. "Aside from recliners, this is the first time Hickory Hill has offered a leather collection under its own name," said Alex Reeves, vice president of sales for the Valdese, N.C.-based division of Norwalk.
  • Marge Carson enlarges showroom
    High Point— Upper-end upholstery and case goods manufacturer-importer Marge Carson has added 7,000 square feet of space for the April market, bringing its 121 N. Hamilton Street showroom here to about 31,000 square feet. President James La Barge said the additional space on the second floor of the building will allow the company to better display the current line and its two new case good...
  • Sherwin-Williams offers non-toxic UV coatings
    Cleveland— Sherwin-Williams has begun offering water-reducible, UV-curable coatings to help finishers meet environmental regulations. The company says its Sher-Wood Ultra-Cure UV Waterborne coatings are ideal for providing non-toxic, low-sheen and matte finishes for cabinets, office furniture, and wood and composite building products.
  • Feuerhaken is VP of Sklar's U.S. marketing arm
    Charlotte, N.C.— Veteran upholstery executive Keith Feuerhaken has been named vice president of sales and marketing of Sklar Peppler USA, the newly created U.S. sales and marketing arm of Canadian upholstery producer Sklar Peppler. Feuerhaken, who most recently was with Alan White Co., will oversee Toronto-based Sklar's effort to expand its U.
  • Turnwald leaving Art Van for Rooms To Go post
    Warren, Mich.— Mike Turnwald, upholstery buyer and 17-year veteran of retailer Art Van here, is leaving to join Rooms To Go. Turnwald will work out of RTG's Dallas office, helping to buy upholstery, said Jeff Seaman, CEO of the 110-store Seffner, Fla.-based company. "We're thrilled that he's coming, and I think he's looking forward to some warmer weather," said Seaman.
  • Jesper names U.S. sales chief
    Branchburg, N.J.— Danish-based home entertainment and home office manufacturer Jesper Office has named Timothy C. Head director of sales and marketing, a new position. He has over 20 years of sales and management experience in the furniture industry, most recently as a senior buyer for upscale retailer Robb & Stucky, where he worked for two years.
  • KKW subsidiary expands West Coast fleet, terminal
    Pomona, Calif.— KKW Trucking subsidiary Furniture Transportations Systems has expanded its West Coast fleet and Washington terminal to better serve Western customers. Since the beginning of the year, FTS has added 50 tractors to its fleet of more than 300 tractors. At roughly $90,000 per trailer, that represents a $4.
  • Hekman updates, expands Copley Square collection
    Grand Rapids, Mich.— High-end producer Hekman Furniture is updating and expanding a perennial hit, the traditionally styled Copley Square collection, with 24 new styles in dining, occasional and executive office. Copley Square, named for the downtown Boston landmark and featuring the look of Georgian and Hepplewhite antiques with elements of classic Chippendale, is celebrating its 25th an...
  • Hamilton & Spill reorganizes management
    Vancouver, British Columbia— Rick Verjee has been promoted to president of importer Hamilton & Spill, which also has shifted two other top executives and hired another. David Gerstner, who had been president for two years, will join East Asian International Ltd., a Hong Kong-based trading company owned by Hamilton & Spill Chairman Mick Verjee, as vice president for North America.
  • Leather Factory closing down operations
    Encino, Calif.— The Leather Factory, a one-time Top 100 company, has shut down its remaining stores and is selling off its factory assets, the victim of poor business and Chinese competition. The vertically integrated company, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in October, said in a court document that it had closed "after considerable and failed efforts to reorganize.
  • Ikea shifting to new data storage system
    Munich, Germany— Retailer Ikea is setting up a global storage system using DataCore software. The SANmelody software will manage, protect and virtualize Ikea's data storage. It will transform standard Dell PC servers and their disks into storage networking disk servers that can be supported from a single central location in Werne, Germany.
  • Singapore show proves fruitful for exhibitors of upscale lines
    Singapore— Buyers at the International Furniture Fair Singapore don't typically shop for high-end furniture, because the show, now in its 24th year, long has been known for its lower-medium to medium-priced leather and case goods, most of which is made in China. But those seeking higher-end looks were pleasantly surprised if they looked hard enough during the most recent show, which ran M...
  • Our Community
    Fancy footwork lands $2,500 for kids charities
    Hartford, Conn.— Bob's Discount Furniture spokesperson and television personality Cathy Poulin showed her cha-cha chops in a statewide dancing competition here during the Original Connecticut Home Show & Lifestyles Exposition. Featured in Dancing for a Cause, a competition involving Connecticut media personalities, Poulin and dance partner Jonathan Stangel did the cha-cha and waltz &#...
  • Our Community
    Online retailer auctions beds used on Trump TV program
    Charlotte, N.C.— Online retailer Clubfurniture.com conducted online auctions of headboards and beds used to furnish contestants' Trump Tower suite on the new season of the television show "The Apprentice." Proceeds will be donated to charity. Goods auctioned on eBay included 12 Mercer micro-suede twin-size headboards and two complete twin-size Mercer beds.
  • Ogurkis gets new Vermont Tubbs post
    Brandon, Vt.— Vermont Tubbs has promoted Denise Ogurkis to the new position of director of sales and marketing. She reports to the company's president, Bo Harris. "Her sales and marketing savvy in the furniture industry, coupled with her energy and ability, bode well for the future of this company," said Jon McNeill, who with business partner Fred Musone purchased the solid-wood case good...
  • Hall of Fame readies exhibit at Plaza Suites
    High Point— The American Furniture Hall of Fame will honor its 68 members with an exhibit at the entrance of Plaza Suites on Main Street here. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is set for 2 p.m. Tuesday, April 25. "Historical artifacts from the AFHF archival files, which have been collected over the past 17 years, are included (in the exhibit)," said Steve Kincaid, president of Kincaid Furniture ...
  • Macy's plans to integrate merchandising, product teams
    New York— As of Aug. 1, the product development and design teams at Macy's Merchandising Group will be integrated with the merchandising teams at Macy's Home Store. The integrated group will be lead by Tim Adams and Mike Osborn, chairman and president, respectively, of Macy's Home Store. With the reorganization, Macy's Home Store senior vice presidents will be responsible for both market ...
  • Correction
    A story on page 1 of the April 17 issue of Furniture/Today, about a bondholder suing some former executives of Levitz Home Furnishings Inc., should have said that Jennifer Saffer, an attorney representing bondholder Bay Harbour Management, declined to comment.
  • Tupelo shifting dates
    Tupelo, Miss.— Starting next year, the Tupelo Furniture Market will take place in mid-January and mid-June, several weeks earlier than now. V.M. Cleveland, the market's chairman and CEO, said the markets will continue on a Wednesday-through-Saturday format for their 2007 dates, Jan. 10–13 and June 13–16.
  • City of Hope honors two
    High Point— Two industry veterans, Todd Wanek, president and CEO of Ashley Furniture Inds., and Joe Carroll, publisher of Furniture/Today, have been named as this year's City of Hope Spirit of Life Award honorees. Wanek and Carroll, who are leading an industry-wide fundraising campaign for the City of Hope Cancer Center, will be honored for their contributions to the community and the ind...
  • Buyers begin the hunt
    High Point— With inconsistent business for many retailers so far this year, and rising gas prices and interest rates weighing on future sales, buyers at this week's market are looking for new and better ways to drive traffic through their doors. That means new looks, new sources, lower price points, renewed attention to quality and more.
  • Imports rise 11% in '05, led by China
    High Point— In 2005, the United States galloped past the $20 billion threshold in imports, bringing in nearly $22 billion in furniture and furniture products, or 11% more than in 2004. Chinese-made product led the way, with an 18% increase bringing its U.S. shipments to nearly $11 billion, enough to account for almost half of every dollar spent on imported furniture.
  • Furniture repair school opens in Hickory, N.C.
    Hickory, N.C.— In 1993, Peter Schlosser started running the furniture repair shop for retailer Boyles Furniture in Hickory, N.C., with nothing but a college degree and four years of management training at a New York department store. When he got to Boyles, Schlosser believed a commode was just a toilet.
  • NBA player scores big bed
    New York— When a king-sized bed just isn't big enough, 1-800-Mattress has an answer. Quentin Richardson, a 6-foot, 6-inch member of the National Basketball Assn.'s New York Knicks, went to the company when he wanted to custom design the bed of his dreams, which turned out to be an innerspring mattress measuring 10 feet by 10 feet.
  • Barclay Butera hits N.Y.
    New York— Barclay Butera, the furniture and interior designer whose work reflects his love for the Hollywood of old and the worlds of West Palm Beach, Fla., and Lilly Pulitzer, opened his first Barclay Butera Home to-the-trade showroom here earlier this month. The showroom in the D&D Building at 979 Third Ave.
  • Seattle Gift Show adding furniture
    Seattle— The 152nd semi-annual Seattle Gift Show, set for Aug. 19–22, will premier its new Home & Garden division, which includes indoor/outdoor furniture. At the suggestion of the Seattle Advisory Committee members, the show's management has remarketed and renamed the At Home and GardenStyle divisions to encompass the indoor and outdoor living styles prevalent in the Northwest.
  • OFDA expo slated for Oct. 25–27
    Alexandria, Va.— The Office Furniture Dealers Alliance will hold its annual Dealer Strategies Conference and Expo Oct. 25–27 at the Hyatt Regency Dallas. The conference will include an educational program features dozens of sessions, roundtable discussions and best-practices workshops. The event also includes a dealer-focused expo showcasing products and services.
  • 5th Tempur-Pedic bed gets Arthritis Foundation's seal for ease of use
    Lexington, Ky.— The Arthritis Foundation has awarded The OriginalBed by Tempur-Pedic its Ease-of-Use Commendation, making it the visco-elastic mattress maker's fifth sleep system to win the recognition. The foundation assesses the accessibility and ease of use of products by allowing arthritis patients to evaluate them and rate their usability.
  • AWFS '07 show shaping up as largest in history
    City of Commerce, Calif.— The Assn. of Woodworking & Furnishings Suppliers' next AWFS Fair, slated for July 18–21, 2007 in Las Vegas, is on its way to becoming the largest in the group's 50 year history. Priority space selection and exhibitor enrollment for the biennial event is tracking well ahead of the record-setting 2005 show, the first time it was held in Las Vegas.
  • AWFS picks PR company
    City of Commerce, Calif.— The Assn. of Woodworking & Furnishings Suppliers has chosen Freeman/McCue Public Relations as its public relations representative. Freeman/McCue will assist the AWFS executive staff in the development of long-range communications planning, event promotion, legislative affairs and media relations.
  • Five retailers win Broyhill's Vegas drawing
    Lenoir, N.C.— The chips were flying in the Broyhill showroom during the winter Las Vegas market, with winners of the Poker Chip Contest receiving up to $5,000 in credit toward the cost of new merchandise they ordered. The full-line furniture producer drew one winner each of the five days of market.
  • O'Connell appointed 1-800-Mattress sr. VP
    New York— Retail veteran John O'Connell has been promoted to senior vice president of merchandise and stores at bedding retailer 1-800-Mattress. He joined 1-800-Mattress in 2003 as vice president of retail stores. O'Connell had been director of stores for Bally of Switzerland, a high-end footwear company.
  • Broyhill tour marks 100 years
    Lenoir, N.C.— Broyhill Furniture Inds. executive Tom Broyhill has been continuing his tour of stores as part of the company's 100th anniversary celebration. Broyhill, vice president of international sales and contract, who has been with the manufacturer for 31 years, recently wrapped up a two-week visit to five stores in three states.
  • Gore fabric treatment awarded green light
    Newark, Del.— Gore Seating Protection, a topical performance treatment for upholstery fabric, has met air quality standards for certification by the Greenguard Environmental Institute, an organization that establishes standards for indoor products and testing protocols. The treatment can be used on almost any upholstery fabric to add a moisture barrier as well as anti-microbial and soil- ...
  • Bedding Benchmarks
    Experts: Start flammability changes now
    St. Charles, Ill.— Some of the bedding industry's most experienced mattress flammability experts say that bedding producers must begin work immediately to meet a new federal flammability standard. The best advice is to "start now," say top executives at the Lilly Management Group, the team that led Serta to become the first national bedding producer to introduce open flame resistant bedding.
  • Bedding Benchmarks
    Standards costly for bedding producers
    St. Charles, Ill.— Bedding producers will incur both up-front and long-term costs in complying with a new federal mattress flammability standard, according to the Lilly Management Group. And, execs with that consulting group said, those costs could quickly add up for bedding makers based on the breadth of their product offerings.
  • Sept. England show gets new layout, look
    Birmingham, England— The Autumn Fair, slated for Sept. 3–6 at the National Exhibition Center here, will feature an improved hall layout and fresh contemporary look, following a £40 million renovation of the NEC. The more than 2,000 exhibitors will be divided into two buying zones, for optimum buying convenience.
  • Trade Mart renovated in Dallas
    Dallas— The Dallas Market Center is renovating its Trade Mart here. Highlighting the multimillion-dollar project is a redesign of the building's first floor atrium to serve as a special events space, accommodating up to 800 and including a new temporary stage, new lighting, and audio-visual updates.
  • Simmons, Kingsdown showing in Greensboro
    Greensboro, N.C.— Two Top 10 bedding producers are using venues here to meet with dealers during the April market. Simmons is returning to the High Point market with another showing at the Grandover Resort. And Kingsdown makes its first showing in Greensboro with its "Jewel of the Night" event, set for April 25–28 at the Sheraton in the city's Koury Center.
  • Intensive research backs new product from Crypton
    West Bloomfield, Mich.— After two years of intensive research and development, Crypton Super Fabrics is beginning a three-month rollout of new initiatives and product. "We have taken a long, hard look at our product, our technologies and the emerging trends and needs within each of our core markets — hospitality, health care, contract and residential," said Randy Rubin, co-founder.
  • Sherwin-Williams offers member discounts
    Cleveland— Paint manufacturer and retailer Sherwin-Williams is making it easier for members of the National Home Furnishings Assn. and the Interior Design Society to purchase supplies. As an NHFA silver sponsor and IDS national partner in design, Sherwin-Williams will offer the organizations' members discounts on architectural paints and coatings, as well as on industrial and floor coatin...
  • Sears' RTA program aims to attract younger crowd
    Hoffman Estates, Ill.— Sears' top executive sees the soon-to-be-reintroduced ready-to-assemble furniture program as one of the key ways to attract younger customers to the venerable retailer. "It's a demographic issue," said Edward Lampert, chairman of parent company Sears Holdings. "With so much of Sears' merchandise in home-related merchandise, we would like to get customers in early to...
  • Sears introduces three-tier lifestyle line
    Hoffman Estates, Ill.— Sears has launched a three-part home textiles fashion program based on lifestyles as well as price points, with merchandise designed to offer solutions for consumers. The program tops out with Everyday Luxe, a bed and bath collection that also includes window coverings and rugs.
  • AVB, TRIB form alliance
    Anaheim, Calif.— AVB/Brand Source and rent-to-own buying cooperative TRIB Group have formed a strategic alliance aiming to strengthen both organizations. Lawrenceville, Ga.-based TRIB — billed as the rental industry's largest buying group — will continue to operate autonomously but becomes a division of AVB, similar to AVB's Home Entertainment Source, Sleep Source, Flooring So...
  • Proximity Hotel to open in '07
    High Point— Markegoers will have a new place to stay starting in fall 2007 in neighboring Greensboro, in the 147-room Proximity Hotel. Developed by the owners of the O. Henry Hotel and Green Valley Grill, and Lucky 32 restaurants in Greensboro, Winston-Salem and two other cities, the Proximity will be near the intersection of Wendover Avenue and Benjamin Parkway, a couple of blocks from t...
  • Duralee doubles showroom
    Bay Shore, N.Y.— Upscale fabric supplier Duralee has renovated and doubled the size of its Boston Design Center showroom to nearly 5,000 square feet. The company is showcasing its extensive line of fabrics and trimmings, including more than 60 upholstered and case pieces from the Duralee Fine Furniture collection.
  • IHFRA to honor Cleveland, Massood brothers
    High Point— The International Home Furnishings Representatives Assn. is presenting long-time member and former president Craig Cleveland its highest honor, the Harold Braun Distinguished Service Award, during an awards gala at the furniture market here. IHFRA also has named Mike Massood and George Massood of MGM Transport recipients of its Pillar of the Industry Award.
  • Rep group installs new officers at gala
    High Point— The International Home Furnishings Representatives Assn. will install new officers during its annual Presidential Gala and Awards Ceremony here. The event is set for Monday, April 24, at the International Home Furnishings Center, Club level. Ray Isser will become IHFRA's 68th president.
  • 1st Todd Oldham by La-Z-Boy store wins praise
    New York— The first Todd Oldham by La-Z-Boy store, which opened in this city's SoHo neighborhood three months ago, is already receiving praise in the design world. Metropolitan Home has included the store on its latest Design 100 list, which recognizes the most noteworthy objects, events and personalities in the world of design.
  • Zagat gives high marks to Stickley store
    New York— Upscale retailer Stickley, Audi & Co.'s Fifth Avenue store earned high marks in Zagat Survey's 2006 New York City Shopping guide, published in March. The retailer was recognized as the "Top Quality Home/Garden Store" in the furniture category. Zagat provides consumer survey-based leisure reviews in its guidebooks.
  • IHFRA renting market pagers
    High Point— The International Home Furnishings Representatives Assn. again is offering pager rentals during the April market here. Pagers can be rented for $39.95 for the entire market, with a $30 refundable deposit. The fee includes activation, rental and unlimited pages during market. In addition, legal counsel will be available for IHFRA members on Monday, May 1, at the IHFRA office.
  • Master Design debuts youth
    High Point— Case goods and occasional importer Master Design Furniture will launch a youth and master bedroom program this market sourced from three factories in Brazil. The offerings will include youth bedrooms priced between $399 and $599 retail for bed, dresser and mirror combinations. The product is pine, and the company says it places an emphasis on design and finish.
  • Harden updates Natural Transitions
    McConnellsville, N.Y.— The Shakers didn't anticipate flat-panel televisions, but Harden Furniture is remedying that oversight. Two pieces that accommodate the cutting-edge TVs are part of an update to Natural Transitions, a popular Shaker-inspired collection that has been in the Harden line for 15 years.
  • Signature expands showroom
    High Point— Wood furniture and upholstery resource Signature Home Furnishings has expanded its National Furniture Mart space to 10,000 square feet for the April market. This is the second showroom expansion for the Santa Fe Springs, Calif.-based company, which will be in space 812. Raymond Carringer, national sales manager, said Signature will unveil this April seven collections encompass...
  • Modus expands offerings
    High Point— Bedroom importer Modus Furniture International is expanding its offerings this market to include home entertainment and dining. The company also has moved to a much larger showroom in the International Home Furnishings Center. It previously occupied about 4,000 square feet in space M-1034, and now has about 10,000 square feet in M-931.
  • Butler barging into bedroom
    High Point— Longtime accent furniture source Butler Specialty Co. is jumping into bedroom here in a big way with four collections including about 70 pieces. Butler has established a separate division called Chicago Bedroom, after the company's hometown, and named Butler executive Monty Sihweil director of sales and marketing for the division.
  • Forty West opens in China
    High Point— With a photography studio in the hometown of the International Home Furnishings Market, it wasn't a far reach for Bill Thomas to offer photo services to the furniture industry. And with the industry shifting toward imports, it wasn't much of a stretch for him to open a studio in Dongguan, China, either.
  • Serta plans furniture brand
    Hoffman Estates, Ill.— Bedding major Serta is planning to extend its brand to furniture, starting with upholstery. The company plans to enter into exclusive licensing partnerships with manufacturers to develop Serta-branded furniture. Serta will work with manufacturers to develop fabric and leather upholstery products for residential and office markets, and also for the hospitality industry.
  • La-Z-Boy taps two sales execs
    Monroe, Mich.— La-Z-Boy has promoted veteran sales executives Eric Gatton and Jim Reilly to regional vice presidents of sales. Gatton will oversee the Mid-Atlantic region, and Reilly will be responsible for the Northeast. Both report to Greg White, vice president of merchandising and sales. La-Z-Boy recently created the Mid-Atlantic region to allow managers to spend more time in the field.
  • Henson heads AICO Office Systems
    Pico Rivera, Calif.— AICO has hired Rick Henson director of AICO Office Systems, an affiliate company of the importer specializing in commercial and contract office furnishings. Henson reports to Martin Ploy, AICO executive vice president. He replaces Chris Carter, who resigned to pursue other endeavors.
  • O'Sullivan names Walters president, CEO
    Roswell, Ga.— Ready-to-assemble furniture manufacturer O'Sullivan Inds. has named Rick Walters as its president and CEO. Walters, who joined the company in June 2004, had been interim CEO since November, when former President and CEO Robert Parker was placed on medical leave. "Naming Rick to lead O'Sullivan positions the company to continue the execution of the strategy and plans designed...
  • TEI opens renovated showroom
    High Point— Hardwood furniture manufacturer Tennessee Enterprises Inc. will open a renovated, 8,000-square-foot space in the National Furniture Mart for the April market. The company, which has sub-leased in High Point for 10 years, will show in space 808 at the NFM. Chatanooga, Tenn.-based TEI sells oak and other wood dining collections, entertainment centers, occasional tables, case goo...
  • Marie Albert signs Market Square lease
    High Point— French and country furniture maker Marie Albert has signed a long-term lease for a 3,500-square-foot showroom in Market Square, suite 300. The Remsenburg, N.Y.-based company has been in the Hamilton-Wrenn district. "We feel we'll capture a better audience at Market Square, with many more possibilities to connect with the people in our core business," said owner and President T...
  • Natuzzi Americas focusing on upper, lower ends
    High Point— Natuzzi Americas is further differentiating its three brands this market, with most of its introductions emphasizing the high end and the promotional segment of its line. Ten contemporary sofa models are debuting in the upscale Pasquale Natuzzi Collection. Imbued with a strong European design influence, they are covered either in leather or in a new ribbed microfiber, Alcantar...
  • Fjords by Hjellegjerde moves to N.J.
    Somerset, N.J.— Fjords by Hjellegjerde, a Norwegian recliner manufacturer, has moved its U.S. headquarters and distribution center here. The company, whose U.S. operations had been based in Corona, Calif., said it was moving to the East Coast site in order to be closer to its parent company. The Corona offices closed March 31.
  • Masco honors Akzo Nobel
    Taylor, Mich.— Finish supplier Akzo Nobel is among the 20 winners of Masco's annual supplier awards. The Masco Supplier Team Award Recognition, or MASTAR, program recognizes leadership, communication, commitment and cooperation by suppliers to help the manufacturer achieve its goals. Masco is one of the largest U.
  • High-end Vietnamese source targeting U.S.
    High Point— Designers & Makers, a Vietnamese manufacturer of high-end furniture, is making its debut in High Point this week. The three-year-old company has shown at furniture markets in Singapore and Vietnam, and currently sells to customers in Russia, Australia, the Middle East, Greece, Canada and the Caribbean.
  • Safavieh showing rugs, furniture in larger space
    High Point— Safavieh is exhibiting rugs and furniture in an expanded, 10,000-square-foot showroom in Market Square at this week's market. The showroom combines the spaces formerly occupied by rug resources Karastan, in space 120, and 828 International Trading, in space 123. 828 International has moved to a new showroom in Suites at Market Square, space 1-319.
  • Selamat showcasing new identity
    High Point— Furniture source Selamat Designs has moved its showroom here and is unveiling a new identity this market. The new showroom is in the International Home Furnishings Center's InterHall, space H-133. The Cincinnati-based company, which offers mahogany and rattan furniture and accents, is featuring a redesigned logo, a new catalog and a new advertising campaign representing four a...
  • Mystic Valley space grows
    High Point— Top-of-the-bed collections manufacturer Mystic Valley Traders is exhibiting this market in an expanded showroom in the International Home Furnishings Center, space H-213. "This expansion gives us an opportunity to show our customers a greater assortment, and the space to debut our line of custom window treatments," said Kyle Tager, co-owner.

Opinion Today
  • New world order: Can small folks survive?
    What's the biggest challenge facing your business today? I bet it's profitability. It doesn't matter where in the world you are or whether you're a vendor, retailer or supplier. Everyone is in the same boat when it comes to making money. That was the big lesson I learned on my recent travels to India and China.
  • Martha and some very muddy water
    Developments at two major retailers are certain to have some impact on the furniture market in High Point this week. The impact also will be felt in rugs, accessories and home textiles. And the interesting thing is that, in a strange way, the two are related. First is the news that Federated Department Stores/Macy's has signed a deal with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia to create a complete hom...

People Today
  • Art Van hires 4
    Warren, Mich.— Retailer Art Van Furniture has added several members to its team. In marketing, Chris Morrisroe has been named director of communications, and is joined by Debbie Colon, manager of special events, and John Rastelli, corporate communications manager. David Horvath has joined the buying staff.
  • People on the Move
    People on the Move
    Executives Easyhome Edmonton, Alberta — Furniture leasing company Easyhome has appointed Chris Fregren vice president and chief financial officer. Fregren is a chartered accountant with a broad financial background who comes to Easyhome from AGF Management, where he was vice president of finance and controller.

Special Report
  • Market Guide
    Deco dreams
    Those who appreciate the glamour of old Hollywood won't be disappointed this market. Art Deco styling, with its mix of elegant curves, tapered legs and jewelry-inspired hardware will be seen in new wood collections at American Drew, Master Design, Leda, Fine Furniture Design & Marketing and Glen Arbor.
  • Market Guide
    Upholstery
    1. ART & FRAME DIRECT Center Theatre Tower 95, 200, 210 The Solaris living room collection is from the Timeless Furnishings collection, with the sofa targeted at $749 retail. 2. ACME IHFC D-817 The Naomi sofa is one of the fresh styles being added to the Acme Couch line; it also is available in a slip-covered version.
  • Market Guide
    Spring forward
    Sources are going heavy on two disparate style themes at the April High Point market — Arts & Crafts, known for its simple lines and authentic materials, and Old World/Italian, elegant and ornate. In addition, four other design directions will be in the spotlight this month: Cottage, lifestyle, modern and Art Deco.
  • Market Guide
    Italian flavor
    High Point gets a taste of the Old Country through Italian designs that range from architecturally inspired to a touch of Tuscany. Bernhardt's new group has the feel of the Italian countryside, while Fine Furniture's offerings emphasize finely detailed carvings. Upscale veneers are toned down with distressing.
  • Market Guide
    Comfy cottage
    Introductions offer fresh takes on a variety of cottage looks with heavy use of turned legs, such as Stanley's Shelter Island, or with a European flavor, like Bernhardt and Hammary are offering. Upholstery is soft, comfortable and calming in design, color and texture. 1. STEIN WORLD IHFC W-547 The No.
  • Market Guide
    Mission possible
    Craftsmanship takes the forefront in these offerings inspired by the wood designs of Gustav Stickley, Frank Lloyd Wright and Charles Rennie Mackintosh. Style touches include exposed joinery, dovetailed joints, clean lines and visible grains. 1. CRESENT Hamilton Square 204 The Artisan collection from Cresent has an Arts & Crafts design with a slant toward younger consumers.
  • Market Guide
    The simple life
    An inviting blend of various furniture influences comes together to create the comfortably relaxed lifestyle look. With a major nod to the sleek lines of modern design, the casual contemporary motif conveys an easy, refreshed attitude through lighter finishes, softer fabrics, fresh materials and an emphasis on comfort.
  • Market Guide
    In the zone
    For those wanting to take a step up the contemporary ladder, there will be plenty to see this market in slimmer, sleeker modern with its architectural preciseness and simplicity of design. The looks are both straight-lined and curvy, sometimes both. Some of the pieces at market will be relaxed and family-friendly; others will be statements for the ultra-sophisticated.
  • Market Guide
    Leather upholstery
    1. DOIMO ELITE IHFC D-1102 Ratchet-back seating defines the X-Sofa, available in sofa or sectional configurations covered in leather or suede. Italian quality and design. 2. G & J STYLES 212 N. Main This recently launched vintage leather line features the Hastings reclining chair. The collection of traditional English styles features top-grade Italian aniline hides that have undergone an an...
  • Market Guide
    Bedroom
    1. DURHAM Market Square 410 Durham Furniture launches a new brand this market called Orville & Mead. This chest is part of the line's Dearborne collection in solid North American maple. 2. GLEN ARBOR IHFC W-547 Chelsea, a nine-piece bedroom in transitional styling, features American cherry veneers.
  • Market Guide
    Youth
    1. VERMONT TUBBS 121 S. Centennial St. Vermont Tubbs introduces two similar collections this market, designed with kids and adults in mind. Stamford has cleaner lines and is geared more toward teens and young adults, while this Camden work center is designed for kids. Many of the pieces are available in 32 finishes.
  • Market Guide
    Motion upholstery
    1. FRANKLIN IHFC W-746 The Wheatley motion sofa from Franklin features a drop-down table, pad-over chaise and a leather/vinyl cover. 2. LEATHER ITALIA Atrium - Main Floor Chippendale styling highlights the Barrington hi-leg recliner from Leather Italia. 3. BERKLINE Showplace 4th Floor Berkline's latest addition to the Luxury Series of upscale rocker/recliners includes this transitional model.
  • Market Guide
    Rugs
    1. ABBYSON IHFC D-337 Abbyson's Utopia is hand knotted of Himalayan sheep wool with silk highlights. Vegetable dyed yarns. Made in Tibet. $1,800 in 6 by 9. 2. 828 INTERNATIONAL Suites at Market Square 1-319 The Roberto collection pairs a traditional design with contemporary palettes. Hand tufted of wool.
  • Market Guide
    Dining
    1. APA MARKETING CenterPoint 209 The Hillsdale collection has both regular dining and counter-height sets. Part of the Entrée line, the set includes a 58-inch china and server. 2. CONCORDIA Plaza Suites C-110 The No. 6038 series includes this bar unit in either a Java or Amaretto finish. The hutch has a mirrored back with nickel accenting, five suspended glass racks and storage space.
  • Market Guide
    Home office
    1. Z-LINE DESIGNS 220 Elm 206 This computer desk and hutch is part of Chateau, Z-Line Designs' new loft-inspired collection. The midnight black finish highlights the grain pattern. Other features include drawer and storage compartments and a pull-out keyboard tray. 2. PHILIPPE LANGDON Showplace 3541 This four-arch bookcase features hand-carved columns, crown moldings and arches.
  • Market Guide
    Home entertainment
    1. BASSETT IHFC C-1200 Arts & Crafts styling highlights Bassett's new Guilford entertainment center. 2. WINNERS ONLY IHFC M-210 Urban styling highlights the Metro entertainment wall system from Winners Only. 3. ARCHATRIVE 108 S. Lindsay St., 3rd floor This console from Archatrive, which accommodates a 42-inch plasma TV, features a motorized lift mechanism.
  • Market Guide
    Occasional
    1. Philip Reinisch IHFC M-905 Philip Reinisch offers several new cabinets this market, including curios and electric fireplace units. This curvaceous, three-piece collector's cabinet has a four-door center unit with two bunching piers. 2. Pulaski IHFC M-330 This wine armoire features a mirrored backsplash, wrought iron gated front with leaf motif and a granite top.
  • Market Guide
    Occasional tables
    1. VINEYARD FURNITURE CenterPoint on Manning 260 Hepplewhite styling marks this Chadwick sofa table from Vineyard Furniture. In birch solids and white ash burl veneers, the table has square tapered legs, cocked beading on drawers, and a shaped shelf with decorative gallery. It retails between $299 and $349.
  • Market Guide
    Metal beds
    1. FASHION BED GROUP IHFC C-700 The Maurice Bed has a simple, clean geometric pattern inspired by Prairie-style furniture. It features a horizontal and vertical pattern in the grill and a powder-coated rustic bronze finish. 2. KINCAID IHFC H-1204 This metal bed, part of Kincaid's Southport collection, sports a simple, traditional design in an antique white finish.
  • Market Guide
    Wicker & rattan
    1. PALECEK IHFC D-202 The Marseilles chair, a part of Palecek's new National Geographic Home Collection, Cote D'Azur, is framed in a rich walnut frame with an intricate rattan back. A single piece of walnut flows from one arm to the other, ending in a slight curve. Offered in various fabrics. 2. PADMA'S PLANTATION IHFC M-4960 Building on the success of its Loft sectional, Padma's addresses a st...
  • Market Guide
    High contrast
    Drama unfolds this market as black and white create refreshing contrast with classic and contemporary designs alike. Style cues are borrowed from a range of locales, including exotic global cultures, chic beach retreats and even a trip back in time with Asian-influenced antiques. The product editors of Home Accents Today showcase five current trends for their exclusive market sketchbooks offeri...
  • Market Guide
    Case goods: Big? Small? You can find it all
    High Point— Case goods introductions this market reveal an exercise in extremes, as styles, sizes and prices trend to polar opposites. As Newton's law said, every action has an equal and opposite reaction, and market strategies this spring bear that out. For every company offering a smaller-sized bedroom, another is going big with its launch.
  • Market Guide
    Predicted price hikes haven't shown up here
    High Point— The predictions of price hikes made last year haven't shown up on stickers here. Back at the October market, manufacturers were warning that 2006 could see price increases for case goods. The culprits typically cited were higher raw material, labor and fuel costs. Companies said it was more expensive to buy finishing supplies, ship goods and build factories.
  • Market Guide
    Several wood resources marking major anniversaries this market
    High Point— Several case goods companies are marking major anniversaries this year and will celebrate with parties and specials at the market. Kincaid Furniture turns 60 this year and will offer a short bedroom group commemorating the event. At premarket, the company said it hadn't finalized the group yet, but expected it will feature solid walnut.
  • Market Guide
    Occasional offerings focus on form, materials
    High Point— Case goods companies are aggressively targeting the occasional category this market with a mix of styles and materials aimed at diverse elements of the marketplace. Whether they are part of a new collection or standalone groups, occasional offerings tend to focus more on form and materials rather than functionality.
  • Market Guide
    Casual dining gears to counter tough retail climate
    High Point— The April market always has set the stage for casual dining's most critical retail selling season, which opens on Labor Day weekend as consumers ready their homes for the holiday season from Thanksgiving through New Year. This market is no exception, although category insiders remain concerned about market attendance and open-to-buy after what all agree has been a lackluster o...
  • Market Guide
    Home office blends elegant, casual looks
    High Point— A mix of elegant looks with European influences, and casual looks inspired by Pottery Barn and Crate & Barrel, dominate the home office arena this market. Old World European styling turns up in Hooker's Chateau Marquette and Stanley's Tre Venti and Serafina collections. Chateau Marquette has six main pieces, including three executive desks featuring a physically distressed...
  • Market Guide
    Youth sources eye two main targets
    High Point— Youth furniture sources are aiming at two distinct targets with their introductions this spring. Some manufacturers are offering furniture clearly intended for younger children with bright colors and kid-friendly motifs. And for older children, introductions include furniture for girls with Victorian influences and collections for boys with new loft systems, more storage and s...
  • Market Guide
    Changing High Point scene creates new opportunities
    High Point— Changes in the High Point bedding scene may offer new opportunities for bedding producers still committed to this market. That's the assessment of Therapedic President Gerry Borreggine, who this market finds his Kathy Ireland mattress line being showcased with fellow Kathy Ireland brand partner Standard.
  • Market Guide
    Stationary upholstery producers emphasizing transitional styling
    High Point— Stabilized pricing and a greater emphasis on transitional styling are key elements in stationary upholstery introductions here this week. Gone this market is much of the uncertainty of the last High Point market, when manufacturers were reeling from price increases in foam and upcharges in other raw materials such as plywood, steel and even petroleum-based packing materials.
  • Market Guide
    Leather sources highlight loft looks, fresh touches
    High Point— Leather upholstery sources are highlighting new looks and new programs at this week's market. Loft looks loom large at several companies. Universal is supplementing its successful Loft Collection, introduced in fabric-only covers last October, with a leather counterpart this market.
  • Market Guide
    Motion makers showing a horde of new product
    High Point— Spurred by the market-share battle being fought on retail sales floors, producers of motion furniture and recliners are bringing a horde of new products to market in an attempt to gain even more retail real estate. Producers say the new products are essential to keep a sales floor from becoming stale, and perhaps most importantly, to keep retail sales associates excited about ...
  • Market Guide
    Dutailier unveils glider/recliner
    High Point— Dutailier, the industry's best-known resource for glider rockers, is unveiling a line of recliners that employ a glider mechanism. The five-chair lineup, called the Comfort Recliner collection, features hi-leg models with a hidden locking mechanism that prevents the chair from gliding when the footrest is open.
  • Market Guide
    Slyngstad teams up with Fjords
    High Point— Norwegian designer Jarle Slyngstad will be in the Fjords showroom this week to help launch the Fjords brand in the U.S. market and introduce a high-end upholstery line he has developed for the company. Fjords, formerly Hjellegjerde USA, has teamed with Slyngstad for a sleek line of motion upholstery and stationary chairs that feature steel frame construction and a body-contour...
  • Market Guide
    Rug vendors aim to sustain momentum
    High Point— Rug vendors are coming to High Point with all guns blazing. With a solid first quarter behind them, they are confident that new products will be well accepted at the spring market here. For many rug resources, the January market in Atlanta was the best in years, and they expect that momentum to carry through the High Point event.

Store Openings
  • Bedmart has Ekornes gallery
    Portland, Ore.— Bedmart Comfort Solutions has opened an Ekornes Stressless Zone gallery in its store here. The gallery, which features the Norway-based producer's upscale recliners and motion furniture, occupies 2,800 square feet of the 6,000-square-foot Bedmart store, which is located in a Portland art district known as The Pearl.
  • La-Z-Boy adds store in N.Y.
    Poughkeepsie, N.Y.— Top 25 furniture manufacturer La-Z-Boy has opened a La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries store on South Road here. The 26,000-square-foot store is co-owned by Arline Woronoff and Marty Katz, and features the design-focused format of the company's New Generation stores. The store carries a broad selection of furniture and home accents from La-Z-Boy and subsidiaries La-Z-Boy Kid...
  • Flegels opens 3rd Calif. store
    San Ramon, Calif.— Home furnishings and interior design retailer Flegels has opened its third San Francisco Bay area store on Market Place here. The 10,100-square-foot store is owned by Mark Flegel, CEO and president, and joins the flagship store in Menlo Park and the San Rafael store in Marin County.
  • USA Baby: 2 in Houston
    Houston— Infant and kids furniture and accessory retailer USA Baby has opened a second store in Houston, on Westheimer in the Tanglewilde Shopping Center. The store has about 10,800 square feet of selling space. Jeff and Melissa Waring own the store, and are co-owners, with Melissa's parents, of the first USA Baby unit here.

Supplement
  • Global Textiles Today
    Italy: Perfect setting for idea-sharing
    In May, fabric suppliers and buyers from around the world will be visiting the Proposte and Scoperta fabric trade fairs in Italy. This issue of Global Textiles Today gives you a preview of the patterns, constructions and colors that will debut at these two shows. The 14th edition of Proposte, May 10–12, and the 8th edition of Scoperta, May 9–12, should be excellent complements to on...
  • Global Textiles Today
    Trendspotting: Luxury, eclectism on rise
    With two fabric shows — Proposte and Scoperta — running practically concurrently in Cernobbio and Milan, Italy, in May, there are exhibitors from every corner of the world. Long-distance, trend-spotting challenges notwithstanding, however, here's what to watch for at the Italian shows, based on fabric samples and information supplied to Global Textiles Today from exhibitors at the t...
  • Global Textiles Today
    Scoperta adds 30 exhibitors, trend display
    Milan, Italy— About 30 new exhibitors will be among more than 100 showing at the Scoperta fabric trade show here May 9–12. Scoperta, in its eighth year, will have a new venue in the Fiera Milano exhibition center. Also new will be Scoperta Creativa, an interactive "theater of trends" located in the main hall that features top manufacturers and design houses focusing on future trends...
  • Global Textiles Today
    Five exhibitors join Proposte
    Cernobbio, Como, Italy— The 14th edition of Proposte takes place at Villa Erba May 10–12 featuring the upscale made-in-Europe upholstery fabrics of 107 exhibitors — 54 from Italy and 53 from other European countries. Five additional companies have been added to the list of exhibitors at Proposte, thanks to a small reconfiguration of the floor plan.
  • Global Textiles Today
    Fabric spotlight
    1. ANTECUIR Technology and design are perfectly mated in Alpes, from the Rustika group, which features a dynamic pattern and on-trend color. 2. AZNAR TEXTIL This double-layer floral motif pops in a classic and sophisticated black-and-white palette. 3. BAMBU TEXTIL The soft, trendy textures of the Bikini collection, polyester and acrylic, are washable and durable to 40,000 Martindale cycles.
  • Global Textiles Today
    Fabric introductions
    These companies are exhibiting at Proposte at Villa Erba in Cernobbio, Italy; at the Grand Hotel di Como and Villa Parravicini, also in Cernobbio; and at Scoperta at the Fiera Milano in Milan, Italy. Alonso Mercader Scoperta This Spanish company is introducing microfiber fabrics and synthetic leathers for the residential and contract markets.

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