Home Textiles Today January 23rd Issue by Sandow Media

Monday, January 23, 2012

THE BUSINESS AND FASHION NEWSPAPER OF THE HOME TEXTILES INDUSTRY

Ready, Steady, Go for NYIGF/ NY Textiles Week BY WAYNE MARKS NEW YORK — With fourth-quarter sales up sharply and firstquarter orders fueling a cautious optimism, many exhibitors at the New York International Gift Fair and New York Textiles Week at Javits and in the showrooms may ﬁnally be feeling the wind at their backs. “Pendleton’s fourth-quarter business was spectacular. Sellthroughs at retail were above plan, resulting in fourth-quarter reorder activity.” said Bob Christnacht, division manager, home, Pendleton Woolen Mills. The manufacturer is seeing larger commitments from core customers for spring and fall 2012 bookings, he added. At NYIGF, Pendleton will introduce a throw program using Alpaca fiber sourced from the United States, a new jacquard towel program featuring the company’s well-known Chief Joseph design, and 12 new bedding groups as well as new table-

LAS VEGAS MARKET B-370

Bedford’s new Buckingham throw is woven at its New Hampshire mill using a new domestic chenille yarn to create a fresh texture and pattern. See page 8 for additional NYIGF introductions.

hometextilestoday.com

Vegas Marketers Bet on Black L AS VEGAS — Like their NYIGF counterparts, exhibitors heading for the Las Vegas Market, which runs Jan. 30-Feb. 3, have seen strong fourth quarter sales and many positive leading indicators, putting them in a hopeful but careful mood with respect to the upcoming show. Kami Navid, vp, Jaunty Co. Inc. is seeing upside potential. “Overall, we see people very optimistic about the economy. The rug industry has been slow in the last two years, if not longer, so I think everybody is now anticipating a better economy, better days, and for business to get back on track.” Kami said. Jaunty’s sales increased in 2010 versus 2009 and it had double-digit increases in 2011, according to Kami. At Hudson Industries, Q4 was “surprisingly strong” according to senior vp Lonnie Schepps, who is leaving the company this month for a new post elsewhere. “Being able to fulﬁll last minute volume —as we are a vertical manufacturer — helped immensely,” he said. However, recent developments are not enough to make Hudson double down just yet, “Q1 & Q2 of 2012 appears to be stable as we see it coming through. There’s still inventory out there, so we think it will not be blockbuster business [in the ﬁrst half].” Hudson will display its latest cool foams at the Las Vegas

top and dinnerware collections.3, 2012 years … although that is not reJANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY Keith Sorgeloos, president and ceo at Home Source International, also saw a pickup in business as 2011 closed. “Believe it or not, fourth-quarter business was the best it has been in four

ally a surprise in lieu of the economic conditions we have been through for the past three years, not to mention the cotton crisis we faced.”

| Vol. 33, No. 3 | $8.00

SEE VEGAS PAGE 6

Home Source International is showing Pearl Finish sheets constructed from a patented formula using real pearls.

SEE NYIGF PAGE 2

New Portuguese Powerhouse Ready for More

To become a Surya dealer, please SHOULBERG call BY WARREN

1.877.275.7847

orFRANKFURT email us,atGERMANY info@ — MoreTextile Group, the newly created surya.com. owner of three of Portugal’s largest home textiles suppliers, had its ofﬁcial coming out party here earlier this month at Heimtextil. And now the company is ready to become a bigger player in the international marketplace. MoreTextile was created last year as the corporate owner and overseer of Coelima, JMA and Antonio Almeida & Filhos. Each of these Portuguese companies had experienced financial issues over the past years, as had many European suppliers in the industry, their business

moving to less expensive Asian resources. Financial lenders to the individual ﬁrms decided to combine the three companies, although Artur Soutinho, president and ceo of MoreTextile, told HTT they are not calling it a merger. Each company, he said, will maintain a separate face to the public and the industry and only activities behind the scenes — operations and ﬁnance — will be combined. At Heimtex, each company occupied its own stand, though the three did jointly participate in an opening night reception attended by more than 100 people. Each of the three companies — Coelima and Almeida

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in bedding and JMA in bath — has been a signiﬁcant supplier of product to the American market over the years, but all have reduced their American exports due to the combination of increased competition from Asia and the stronger Euro making their products more expensive in the United States. Together the three companies did about 110 million Euros last year, or about $142 million, the majority through exports. Soutinho said with the dollar gaining strength against the Euro again, MoreTextile expects to increase its export business to the United States and become more active in the American market. HTT

See page 14 for additional Las Vegas introductions.

Inside This Issue Fingers Crossed ................................................................. page 4 Of Twinkies and Brownies ............................................... page 4 Eurozone Woes Impact Heimtextil Attendance..................................................... page 4 Winter 2012 Rug Preview ................................................ page 18 NRF Forecasts 3.4% Sales Growth in 2012 .................... page 32

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Monday, January 23, 2012

THE BUSINESS AND FASHION NEWSPAPER OF THE HOME TEXTILES INDUSTRY

Ready, Steady, Go for NYIGF/ NY Textiles Week BY WAYNE MARKS NEW YORK — With fourth-quarter sales up sharply and firstquarter orders fueling a cautious optimism, many exhibitors at the New York International Gift Fair and New York Textiles Week at Javits and in the showrooms may finally be feeling the wind at their backs. “Pendleton’s fourth-quarter business was spectacular. Sellthroughs at retail were above plan, resulting in fourth-quarter reorder activity.” said Bob Christnacht, division manager, home, Pendleton Woolen Mills. The manufacturer is seeing larger commitments from core customers for spring and fall 2012 bookings, he added. At NYIGF, Pendleton will introduce a throw program using Alpaca fiber sourced from the United States, a new jacquard towel program featuring the company’s well-known Chief Joseph design, and 12 new bedding groups as well as new table-

Bedford’s new Buckingham throw is woven at its New Hampshire mill using a new domestic chenille yarn to create a fresh texture and pattern. See page 8 for additional NYIGF introductions.

top and dinnerware collections. Keith Sorgeloos, president and ceo at Home Source International, also saw a pickup in business as 2011 closed. “Believe it or not, fourth-quarter business was the best it has been in four

years … although that is not really a surprise in lieu of the economic conditions we have been through for the past three years, not to mention the cotton crisis we faced.”

hometextilestoday.com

| Vol. 33, No. 3 | $8.00

Vegas Marketers Bet on Black L AS VEGAS — Like their NYIGF counterparts, exhibitors heading for the Las Vegas Market, which runs Jan. 30-Feb. 3, have seen strong fourth quarter sales and many positive leading indicators, putting them in a hopeful but careful mood with respect to the upcoming show. Kami Navid, vp, Jaunty Co. Inc. is seeing upside potential. “Overall, we see people very optimistic about the economy. The rug industry has been slow in the last two years, if not longer, so I think everybody is now anticipating a better economy, better days, and for business to get back on track.” Kami said. Jaunty’s sales increased in 2010 versus 2009 and it had double-digit increases in 2011, according to Kami. At Hudson Industries, Q4 was “surprisingly strong” according to senior vp Lonnie Schepps, who is leaving the company this month for a new post elsewhere. “Being able to fulfill last minute volume —as we are a vertical manufacturer — helped immensely,” he said. However, recent developments are not enough to make Hudson double down just yet, “Q1 & Q2 of 2012 appears to be stable as we see it coming through. There’s still inventory out there, so we think it will not be blockbuster business [in the first half].” Hudson will display its latest cool foams at the Las Vegas SEE VEGAS PAGE 6

Home Source International is showing Pearl Finish sheets constructed from a patented formula using real pearls.

SEE NYIGF PAGE 2

New Portuguese Powerhouse Ready for More BY WARREN SHOULBERG FRANKFURT, GERMANY — MoreTextile Group, the newly created owner of three of Portugal’s largest home textiles suppliers, had its official coming out party here earlier this month at Heimtextil. And now the company is ready to become a bigger player in the international marketplace. MoreTextile was created last year as the corporate owner and overseer of Coelima, JMA and Antonio Almeida & Filhos. Each of these Portuguese companies had experienced financial issues over the past years, as had many European suppliers in the industry, their business

htt120103_001_002_005_006 1

moving to less expensive Asian resources. Financial lenders to the individual firms decided to combine the three companies, although Artur Soutinho, president and ceo of MoreTextile, told HTT they are not calling it a merger. Each company, he said, will maintain a separate face to the public and the industry and only activities behind the scenes — operations and finance — will be combined. At Heimtex, each company occupied its own stand, though the three did jointly participate in an opening night reception attended by more than 100 people. Each of the three companies — Coelima and Almeida

in bedding and JMA in bath — has been a significant supplier of product to the American market over the years, but all have reduced their American exports due to the combination of increased competition from Asia and the stronger Euro making their products more expensive in the United States. Together the three companies did about 110 million Euros last year, or about $142 million, the majority through exports. Soutinho said with the dollar gaining strength against the Euro again, MoreTextile expects to increase its export business to the United States and become more active in the American market. HTT

See page 14 for additional Las Vegas introductions.

1/20/2012 12:03:10 PM

Home Textiles Today

January 2, 2012

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NYIGF/NY Textiles Week NYIGF FROM PAGE 1

Others approach the seas ahead with a similar wariness. Owner of Linen Me, Inga Lukauskiene told HTT, “We find that our fourth-quarter business was steady. We are just finishing up at another trade show and our current customers are placing conservative orders, with newer customers placing larger orders.” Lukauskiene sees areas of growth in both new product introductions as well as the retail channels and has added four new colors to Linen Me’s Lara Collection. The company is also introducing dec pillows, scarves and linen throws as well as aprons, tote bags and more clothing styles at NYIGF. Jason Needleman, ceo and president of Peacock Alley, described buyers as, “conservatively ordering, and we foresee that through 2012. We have been working with them closely to hold inventory and keep a healthy flow of key items.” Despite positive Q4 sales, the fact that navigating the current environment can be difficult was summed up nicely by Pradnya Korde, partner and creative director at relative newcomer Black Pepper Dessin. “Business can never be taken for granted,” Korde said, “It’s going to be a very tough year. However, I believe it is in the tough times that new and innovative ventures rise and help change things in an industry. I believe the industry can use a makeover anyway.” Black Pepper will be introducing a range of hand-made soft furnishings at the show. The once elusive volume of the online business netted increased sales last year with prospects for this year strong for many exhibitors who do business with flash sites such as One King’s Lane, Haute Look and Rue La La. Eric Vergucht from Chortex sees the trend, “Our business is growing very well in this [online] area. It is now part of doing business. We have invested in servicing in this segment of the market place and are very pleased with the results.” Chortex is presenting its new Honeycomb & Oxford line of sculpted

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bath towels made of 100% Turkish combed cotton at NYIGF Others see business from websites and flash sites complementing growing volume from more traditional retailers. “Requests from online retailers and flash sites have been picking up,” said Richard Sherman, president, Bedford Cottage/Kennebunk Home “but you have to pick your spots.” Brick and mortar retailers have been finding success online as well, Sherman continued. Many retailers are now looking for product Made in the USA. Bedford will debut two new textured chenille throws, including an indoor/outdoor throw that is machine washable, stain, odor and mildew resistant. Sherman described the new products as, “unlike anything we’ve ever done before”. Displaying at both NYIGF and the Las Vegas market, the company will also be presenting new spring colors in some of its best-selling styles. Cathy Deale, founder and ceo of Jacaranda Living, has been having a similar experience. “We are being asked more than ever before to drop-ship for both our retail stores and web customers, which we are happy to do. More stores are adding websites to their brick-and-mortar stores and asking us for support with product pictures and copy. Many of them have Facebook pages for their stores either in addition to or instead of a website which is increasing their sales. Our investment in the professional photography of our products gives us a great return as they are used by our retailers to increase their sales.” Deale is also finding more demand for domestically produced goods, “We are finding retailers are questioning where products are made more than ever before. They express a preference for fair trade and USA made,” she said. Jason Carr, co-founder of Softline, agrees with the positive online/traditional trend. “We see areas of growth in both retail and internet, both in readymade curtains and decorative pillows. We are looking for further growth by acquiring companies and continuing to build the Softline brand.” Carr told HTT that the company will be introducing new grommeted panels, novelty sheers, and a 90-sku program named Silk Road in 30

Chortex’s honeycomb sculpted bath towels

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Protect-A-Bed Softline’s travel themed pillows

colors with three coordinating designs. Softline will also participate in the Las Vegas show. But it’s not all about online growth. “We work with flash sites on a limited basis. However, our main focus continues to be with the full-price in-line merchandise and our brick and mortar customers.” said Steve Schneider, president, Sferra. Schneider added that Sferra’s primary focus is on specialty stores, “We continually strive to provide the highest level of support for these stores in terms of customer service, product availability, collateral material and sales training. That said, many of our customers maintain a website and more are considering expansion on the Internet.

Including new colors, Sferra is excited about a number of new introductions at the NYIGF. Among them, the Sonya featuring a jacquard constructed with Italian-woven Egyptian cotton sateen. Some companies are taking it more slowly when it comes to flash sites. Meg Woodhouse, director of marketing at John Matouk & Co. said: “We usually limit our involvement with flash sale sites to discontinued items.” This minimal involvement doesn’t appear to have hurt the company. Their bath business grew significantly, Matouk had a “great” fourth as well as a good show in Atlanta earlier this month and is looking for a strong performance in New York. HTT

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Home Textiles Today

January 9, 2012

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OPINIONTodaY Fingers Crossed

O SAY THE MOOD AT HEIMT E X TIL earlier this month was upbeat would be stretching things, but it was definitely hopeful. Where the 2011 business mantra was: “A flat year will qualify as a good year,” at the recent show I detected a sense that the coming 12 months might actually produce some growth, however modest. Several manufacturers are expanding capacity again — even as many acknowledge there exists an overabundance of production availability on a global basis. Some suppliers who do the majority of their business with the United States are looking to open new accounts in EDITOR-IN-CHIEF other markets. By the same token, exporters who concentrate on non-U.S. markets expressed an interest in jumping into the big pool. There was a fair amount of chatter about Sears Holdings, parent of Sears and Kmart. The news from Women’s Wear Daily late last week that CIT Group would shortly resume factoring the company will perhaps ease some concerns — depending upon the terms. As has been the case for a few years now, the roster of U.S. retailers in attendance did not equate to an accounting of actual buyers. More often, the big chains now send members from their sourcing team, product development division or design group. In terms of product, even the European exhibitors were fairly subdued — often interpreted as a sign of caution. It’s not that European offerings were completely devoid of color, but there was a lot of brown on display in the continental outpost of Hall 11. I saw only one new product introduction that turned my head. (And, of course, I didn’t see every item offered at the show.) It’s a top-of-the-line towel from Shri Lakshmi Cotsyn. It’s densely woven, but not a fatty. The words that sprang to mind when I picked it up were “baby blanket.” We’ll soon be making our way through the New York International Gift Fair and the Las Vegas Market. The pre-market point of view for both from exhibitors planning to show there is also hopeful. Maybe this is the year the industry will move decisively forward.

Jennifer Marks

HTT

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Of Twinkies and Brownies

F A N Y OF US E V E R N E E DE D yet another reminder of the fragility of business in general and brand names in particular, there were two more very visible — and very painful — examples over the past few weeks. Both are case studies of what happens when bad things happen Warren to good brands. The first was the bankShoulberg ruptcy filing last month PUBLISHER/ of Hostess Brands, the EDITORIAL DIRECTOR company that makes Twinkies, among other baked goods. For this corporate entity it’s a return trip to bankruptcy court, giving it that Chapter 22 designation that economic pundits love to point out. Hostess’ problems are many, from an expensive overhead to a consuming public that is increasingly moving away from eating unhealthy stuff — at least unhealthy stuff that tastes like crap. If you have not eaten a Twinkie since you were 12, you should keep it that way. It is a dreadful thing to put into your mouth and you should stick with your memories, which are much more tasty. The other news involves Kodak, which also filed for bankruptcy, doing so last week after a slow death spiral that began nearly a decade ago. Kodak — which many of us of a certain age first came into contact with when we purchased a Brownie camera — has suffered for years from the decline in printable photog-

raphy and the move toward digital pictures. No amount of Paul Simon-inspired imagery could slow that process down. The irony is of course that Kodak is credited with inventing the digital camera, but it never pursued it as a viable commercial product, choosing instead the razor/razor blade model of selling film. Even more ironic is that in the product category Kodak chose to try to resurrect its business — printers for computers — it went with a model that put the profit on the machine rather than the ink. In other words, the exact opposite of both conventional practices and its own successful experience in film. In hindsight, it’s easy to dissect and second guess what both Hostess and Kodak should have been doing. The former needed to branch out into products better suited to changing consumer tastes and the latter needed to capitalize on its own strengths. But the damage has already been done and while no doubt some of the names and some of the products will outlive their corporate owners, neither company will ever be what it once was. The take-away here is that all business entities need to examine their own organizations to make sure they are not committing the same sins. The roles of both home textiles suppliers and general merchandise retailers are full of companies that did not do that and paid the price … often the ultimate one. The stories of Hostess and Kodak once more are proof that business plans that are neither fully baked nor completely developed are rarely well done. HTT

1/20/2012 1:03:40 PM

News

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Eurozone Woes Impact Heimtextil Attendance F R A N F U R T , G E R M A N Y — The

number of visitors to this month’s Heimtextil trade fair here fell 5% to 70,000, according to the Society for the Voluntary Control of Fair and Exhibition Statistics, which audits attendance. “The decline is primarily due to a fall in numbers from those European nations that have been particularly hard hit by the debt crisis, especially Italy,

Spain, Greece, France and The Netherlands,” explained Detlef Braun, member of show organizer Messe Frankfurt’s executive board. The event drew a higher number of visitors from the Russian Federation, the Middle East, Turkey and the Far East than last year. The biggest visitor countries after Germany were Italy, Turkey, China, Great Britain, the U.S.,

France, Spain, the Russian Federation, The Netherlands and Poland. Altogether, the proportion of visitors from outside Germany amounted to 64.2% compared to 65.4% in 2011. The number of companies showing at the fair rose 2.4% to 2,634 exhibitors from 61 countries. Next year’s show will t ake place from Jan. 9-12. HTT

Famous Home Teams With Van es Home S T - L AU R E N T , QC , C A N A DA —

Multi-category supplier Famous Home has formed an alliance with Dutch fashion bedding company Van es Home through which the North American company will license Van es products for the U.S. and Canadian markets. This past fall, Famous Home previewed the Van es Home col-

lection in its New York showroom. The line, which is manufactured in Asia, debuted during Heimtextil. Famous Home will also show the collection at the New York Home Fashions Market, which takes place March 5-8. Van es Home, based in Amerongen, Netherlands, was founded in 1961. The bedding and bath

manufacturer’s brands include its own Essenza Covers & Co. as well as several licensed brands: PiP Studio, Love!, Stapelgoed, At Home with Marieke, Miffy, Playboy and Emma Bridgewater. Van Es Home recently launched a home collection for the styling design label Marcel Wanders. HTT

Chambray Dreams for Indo Count M UMBAI , I NDIA — Indo Count Industries, now the fourth largest supplier of sheets to the U.S. market, debuted several new sheeting and top of bed introductions with an emphasis on chambray at Heimtextil earlier this month. Classic Chambray is a 200-count, all-cotton construction. The plain weave sheet features a white warp and a colored filling of combed fibers. End-on-end chambray is also a 200-count cotton with threads woven in two different colors to provide an irregular effect. The sheet features high-twist, vat-dyed yarns. Pin Point Chambray is a 300-count cotton with two warp yarns running in parallel — one of them a heavier, softly-spun and bulky filling yarn that gives the effect of a poplin/oxford mix.

Retail Briefs Another Apple Alum for JCP

CPenney has hired Kristen Blum as executive vp and chief technology officer, effective Jan. 23. Her 25 years of experience at consumer goods and retail companies includes stops at PepsiCo, Abercrombie & Fitch and Apple. Blum reports to chief operating officer Mike Kramer, also a one-time Apple executive - as are JCP’s new ceo, Ron Johnson, and the company’s recently hired HR chief, Daniel Walker. Said Kramer: “Having worked with her for many years, I have seen firsthand Kristen’s extraordinary ability to match strategic business objectives with technological solutions.” Blum described JCPenney as “the most exciting place to be in retail today.”

Amazon Leads in Customer Service

onsumers rank Amazon No. 1 in customer service, according to the recent NRF Foundation/ American Express Customers’ Choice survey, conducted by BigInsight. Amazon.com came in at number one, up from second place last year. Other leaders included: L.L.Bean (No. 2), Zappos.com (No. 3), Overstock.com (No. 4), QVC (No. 5), Kohl’s (No. 6), Lands’ End (No. 7), JCPenney (No. 8), Newegg (No. 9) and Nordstrom (No. 10). The survey polled 9,374 consumers in September.

Gordmans Gearing up for Growth

idwestern retailer Gordmans earlier this month announced plans to open nine stores this year, including four new market entries. The company sees a potential for 300 to 500 stores, executives said at the 14th Annual ICR XChange Conference in Miami. The apparel and home décor retailer operates 74 stores in 16 states. Home décor represents about 30% of revenue and includes a vast assortment of items from wall décor to accent furniture and tabletop items. Across all categories, the retailer carries 100,000 skus at moderate prices.

NRF Adds Five Retail Execs to board

Faux Wood Chambray is a 270-count cotton with the opaque feeling of a twill. All are available in sheet and/or duvet sets. HTT

For the Record In the Jan 9 edition, C&F Enterprises was incorrectly listed as C & F Industries. Additionally on page 24 and again on page 14, its Parfait collection is described as “treated” for resistance to fading and water, but in fact the product is not. Also in the Jan. 9 issue, a Jaipur rug image was incorrectly identified as being part of the manufacturer’s Utopia collection. The rug is actually called Alsace and is from the Poeme collection.

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Home Textiles Today

January 23, 2012

he National Retail Federation added five retail executives to serve on its board of directors, electing them during its 101st annual convention and expo in New York last week. The new members are: •Thomas (Tim) Belk, chairman and ceo of Belk Inc.; •David Jaffe, president and ceo, Ascena Retail Group; •Craig Levra, chairman, president and ceo, Sport Chalet.; •David Ratner, president, Dave’s Soda and Pet City; •Laura Sen, president, ceo and director, BJ’s Wholesale Club Inc. Each will serve a three-year term. Macy’s chairman, president and ceo Terry Lundgren was re-elected to serve another full-year as chairman of the NRF board.

1/20/2012 11:43:52 AM

Home Textiles Today

Las Vegas Market VEGAS FROM PAGE 1

show, “Growth may be in new technologies—especially in the specialty foam arena. I see lots of changes with the newer foams coming on strong.” Schepps said. He believes the lower end may be the surprise winner next year and that suppliers “absolute-

Janaury 23, 2012

ly must” keep feeding the low to mid-end customer in order keep the higher-end “halo” in place and available for lead-ins. Brian Berk, president of the Howard Elliott Collection said he also experienced a nice surge at the end of 2011 with increases in the company’s line of pillows and occasional slip-covered seating collections. Yet, Berk remains cautiously optimistic about the first half of 2012.

News

“The buyers are trending toward the conservative side, but there is open to buy,” he said. Berk believes there is unlimited upside in the e-commerce space and has had success with many of the sites that other show participants have been using such as One King’s Lane, Haute Look , Rue La La, Ideeli, and Joss & Main. The bullish outlook for online retailing is one that is shared by many of Berk’s colleagues.

At Softline, co-founder Jason Carr said the company is dealing with 90% of the flash sites offered today. Softline is presenting at NYIGF as well. Also, presenting at NYIGF and Las Vegas Market is Home Source International. The company’s president, Keith Sorgoloos is similarly engaged in Internet opportunities. “Areas of growth will be centered on affordable luxury and ‘better goods’ show-

ing great value that will lead the way. Channels that present that story and merchandise mix will be winners for 2012 such as the membership only flash sites.” Covering all the basis is Richard Sherman, president at Bedford Cottage/Kenebunk Home. Sherman had “a heck of a fourth quarter,” he’s attending both the Las Vegas and New York shows, involved in online, including flash sites and is reasonably positive about the future. Sherman also has a succinct take on the near-term outlook: “I feel pretty good about the first six months of 2012. People need inventory.” HTT

By Wayne Marks

Beaulieu Canada re-launches Homestyle Program ACTON VALE, Q UEBEC — Beaulieu Canada has updated its “Your Homestyle” retail merchandising program with modern spin. The company’s marketing team has redesigned the “Your Homestyle,” or (YHS), brand image and expanded it to now include hard surfaces such as hardwood, resilient and laminate in addition to rugs and carpets. Marketing data highlighted the need for a fourth lifestyle movement in order to more accurately portray the ever-changing segments of society: Boho Chic, which targets young adults who are both ecologically conscious and reformative and prefer a handmade, casual look with nature inspired themes. The other trends are: Cozy Casa, Studio Urbano, and Classik Elegance. The redesign includes “both bold use of bright color and an innovative display package designed specifically with the female in mind,” according to Beaulieu Canada. Cozy Casa centers on the family, offering budget friendly and practical options to create a comfortable, colorful and dynamic atmosphere. Studio Urbano’s assortment consists of modern, sensible pieces to complement a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Classik Elegance addresses more traditional customers who can appreciate timeless and upscale designs. HTT

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1/20/2012 1:07:57 PM

JOIN US FOR MARKET WEEK Jacob Javits Center Booth 7873 800.438.2431 HTT 012312_Scandia TAB.indd 1

1/12/2012 2:25:26 PM

Home Textiles Today

January 23, 2012

NY Gift/Home Textiles

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Home Textiles Today

January 23, 2012 11

1. Manual Woodworkers & Weavers’ Martha’s Choice II indoor/outdoor pillows use Climaweave inks and finishing process and are made in the U.S. 2. Uptown Artworks’ urban vibe collection of customizable wall art and pillows is inspired by vintage subway signs. 3. Dallas Sauders pillows and throws are artisanmade in the U.S. and printed on Belgian and Irish Linen, including this piece from the Wilton Collection featuring motifs from contemporary artists. 4. Bulgar’s blankets, throws, shawls, pillows and rugs are made from virgin sheep’s wool in naturally occurring colors. 5. Kevin O’Brien Studio employs abstract paintings from O’Brien’s original artwork in the Seascapes printed pillow collection.

6. Ox Bow Decor’s linen pillows feature invisible zippers and informative gift tags outlining the history or folklore surrounding the front image. 7. Cuddledown is introducing expanded line of specialty throw pillow inserts made at its facility in Portland, Maine. 8. Traditions by Pamela Kline offers six new Signature bedding ensembles, including Bansuri Blue, which interprets an ancient Ikat for the modern American home.

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9. Softline Home Fashions newest pre-made drapery panels include Montok, a two-color faux silk embellished with a horizontal pleat where the two colors meet. 10. Commonwealth Home Fashions’ Neapolitan is a candy cane, horizontal stripe jacquard with a grommet panel. 11. Saturday Knight’s Butterfly Bliss printed polyester shower curtain features frolicking butterflies as well coordinating accessories licensed by artist Daphne Brissonnet. 12. Susan Hahn’s space-dyed towels are made of 100% cotton khadi and woven by hand of handspun yarn. 13. Chilewich introduces Kyoto, a reversible tablemat featuring a subtle motif from classic Japanese kimonos on one side and a dusty coloration on the other. 14. C&F Enterprises’ Heirloom table linens employ a homespun design in restful colors with a fringed edge. 15. M&Z Marketing Group is adding two-tone micro fiber sheet sets in fashion bright colors, available in twin and full size. A 400-thread count cotton down alternative will also be shown.

1/19/2012 11:48:39 AM

Home Textiles Today

January 23, 2012

NY Gift/Home Textiles

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1. Woven Workz introduces fluffy yet beefy throws in six colors: camel, sky, lilace, snow, gray and willow. 2. Creative Women expands its Dots collection from bath into table linens, tea towels and beach blankets. Each item is hand-woven from Ethiopian cotton by women-owned studios in Addis Ababa. 3. Serenity Fair Limitedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 100% double-faced throw employs yarn from Inner Mongolia. 4. Audrey Home translates historic patterns into designs printed on indoor/outdoor fabric or organic cotton for tablecloths, napkins, shower curtains, window treatments, upholstery and throw pillows. 5. Textillery collaborates with textiles designer Joe Ruggiero on a collection of washable throws that weave Sunbrella yarns into classic Italian designs. 6. Vietri Linensâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; accent napkins come in a riot of bright colors. 7. Baum Essex curved oval hapao rattan bath set Warrington comes in Grey Wash and Brown.

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Home Textiles Today

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8. LinenMe will show towels from its Lara collection, which includes 19 colors. 9. Jacaranda Living’s 100% cotton percale boudoir covers and cotton throw pillows are embroidered and made by Zulu women in South Africa. 10. Frankie Slaughter Designs debuts with a collection of home accessories, including one-of-a-kind pillows. 11. Jessie Steele’s Sweethearts apron includes a coordinating children’s apron as well as a pot mitt and oven mitt. 12. Wallace Sewell will show the Brockenhurst throw, which is hand-woven of wool and chenille cotton. 13. Downright’s three-in-one Anytime comforter features removable snaps so one can create a light-weight comforter for warmer temperatures. Anytime uses a hypoallergenic white goose down with a 600+ fill power. 14. Romy & Rosie is adding all-cotton, woven hooded towels to its line of infant products made in South Africa.

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1/19/2012 12:09:57 PM

Home Textiles Today

January 23, 2012

NY Gift/Home Textiles

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1. Snow Leopard Trust supports nomadic herders living in the remote mountains of Mongolia through sales of handfelted rugs produced in that country of 100% sheeps’ wool. Participating herders work with the trust to protect the snow leopards.

2. LuRu Home makes its NYIGF debut with the Chickadee tea towel, part of the Procelain Collection, which is hand-dyed with indigo on 100% linen using an ancient Chinese dye process. 3. Global Handmade Hope, a fair trade company, is showing patchwork napkin and placemat sets in navy and light blue made by a women’s cooperative Rwanda. 4. Emdee International has added new linen and burlap collections using natural fabrics as a base for applique and embroidery techniques. 5. Aalamwaar Textiles’ Hand Stamps Collection employs casement cotton fabric that is hand-dyed with AZO-free lowenvironmental impact dyes and is then hand block-printed and tailoredby master artisans at Aalamwaar’s workshop in Hyderabad,India.

in four sizes. 7. Merben handmade rugs are constructed in India from leftover leather scraps, cotton rags and denim jeans. 8. Pendleton’s Fossil Leaf is an intricate jacquard design with the look of a photographic negative made in the U.S. of wool and cotton. 9. Sam Salem and Son’s Dublin plaid wool comforter set comes from the Joseph Abboud collection. 10 . Mia + Finn, which debuted its first products last summer, introduces Andrew quilts. The reversible block-printed and hand-quilted pieces marry Indian textiles tradition to European design sense. 11. Antiochia, a first-time exhibitor, produces traditional Turkish bath towels known as peshtemal that are handwoven Denizli, India. 12. Dea’s Marea is part of its new pre-washed linen collection, which is available in 16 colors. 13. Ortolan Organic’s hand-made Lobster pillow is made of hemp and organic cotton with a Kapok fill.

6.Libeco Home introduces Tahoe, a collection of 100% Belgian linen napkins, runners and tablecloths — the latter

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1/19/2012 5:20:42 PM

Home Textiles Today

Las Vegas Market

January 23, 2012

> hometextilestoday.com

5 1. Sphinx by Oriental Weavers is showing the Revival collection of machine-made rugs with an over-dyed look in washed shades of aqua, plum, crimson and neutral grays with vintage Persian styling. 2. Foreign Accentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Chelsea features a field of poppies on a heather brown background and was hand-tufted in India of pure wool. 3. Karastanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Whitman Place rug is part of the Carmel Collection and a modern take on a traditional Persian panel rendered in warm grays and cream with accents of ochre and amber. 4. Loloi Rugs introduces the Oliver Collection, a jacquard-woven dhurrie with effervescent polyester silk in a series of colorways. 5. Branches is one of over 20 designs being introduced from the Julia Wong Designs collection for The Rug Market America. The rugs are hand tufted of wool and silk.

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1/19/2012 11:00:49 AM

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January 23, 2012

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1. Soft-Tex’s Spriiing Pillow features latex clusters with an all-cotton cover with woven stripe pattern and gusseted side walls for support. 2. Leggett & Platt Consumer Products Group adds to its bedding accessories with the Brisa Gel memory foam pillow, which combines pressure-relieving support of open-cell visco-elastic foam with a cooling gel to dispel heat accumulation. 3. JLA Pets, a division of JLA Home, offers a rectangular pet bed featuring Simmons ComforPedic NxG Memory foam, ultra-soft Silktouch surface and a non-skid bottom. 4. Miracle Sleep’s Extreme Comfort topper is made of Talalay laytex for maximum comfort and support. 5. Vintage Seaside is part of Manual Woodworkers and Weavers’ Nature’s Sketchbook collection of pillows, placemats and runners.

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Home Textiles Today

January 23, 2012

Rugs

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Winter 2012 Rug Preview 1

1. Shaw Living is complementing Tommy Bahama’s Ocean Club and Road to Canberra home collections with several new designs in tribal, ikat, Greek key and suzani themes — the latter seen here. These rugs are machine woven in the United States with Shaw’s own “EverTouch” recyclable nylon. 2. Karastan is expanding its Carmel collection with the addition of Portola Sage, a lush garden-inspired pattern featuring earth-tone philodendron leaves nearly blanketing an ivory field that is framed in a simple solid ivory border. Made in the United States, this new rug is woven on Wilton looms of two-ply nylon yarn. 3. Nourison offers an alternative to wool rugs with its new Rainforest collection of hand-tufted, 100% polypropylene indoor/outdoor rugs. The rugs, which are made in China, feature contemporary, bold, oversized floral and leafy patterns on a variety of background colors. 4. C & F Enterprises is offering its own brand of “fun in the sun” with its new collection of washable rugs called Parfait.

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Home Textiles Today

January 23, 2012

Rugs

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Winter 2012 Rug Preview 2

Peking Handicraft Inc. is in bloom with its new Flower Vase accent rug, made of 100% wool and cotton on a hooked construction.

2. Couristan uses natural fibers and dyes to produce its new handmade Azari rug, the latest addition to the company’s eco-friendly Chobi collection of 100% hand-spun and hand-knotted rugs. 3. Company C’s new Fly Away rug is adapted from a vintage fabric and features colorful larger-than-life butterflies that sparkle against an un-dyed ground. The butterflies’ wings are enhanced by a mix of hooked and tufted textures as well as novelty high-twist yarns. 4. Jaipur’s new Alsace rug seen here in the antique white ashwood colorway is from the Poeme collection.

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1/19/2012 5:31:18 PM

Home Textiles Today

Rugs

January 23, 2012

> hometextilestoday.com

Winter 2012 Rug Preview 1

1. Harounian Rugs International is launching its Destiny collection of wool, cut-and-loop rugs machine-made in India. It comes in six designs and colorways, like this scroll black-andwhite style. 2. OW/Sphinxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new Revival collection pairs easy care with fashion. These machine-made rugs feature an over-dyed look in washed shades of aqua, plum, crimson and neutral grays interpreted on vintage Persian styling. 3. Kas is introducing Meridian, a collection of 100% UV-treated polypropylene rugs designed for outdoor/indoor living. The construction is both high/low and multi-textured with space-dye techniques. Seen here is seafoam; it is also available in mocha and saffron orange colorways. 4. Homefires and artist Mossy Brook have created the new Painted Rain Forest collection of hooked indoor/outdoor area rugs. The designs feature happy colors to help create a welcome setting in living spaces.

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Home Textiles Today

January 23, 2012

Rugs

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Winter 2012 Rug Preview 1

1. Kalaty Rugsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; new Gramercy collection is handcrafted on a Lori loom and is made of 100% wool and bamboo silk. 2. Central Oriental honors its home state of Rhode Island with a new U.S.-made collection of area rugs named after the capital, Providence. These pieces employ an extensive double point and drop stitch construction and are made of 100% heat-set polypropylene. The Marquette Black design is seen here. 3. Momeni draws its inspiration from nature for its new Summit collection, seen here in the sand colorway. These 100% polyester rugs are hand-hooked and feature bold floral and ethnic patterns. 4. cmi beckons Brooklyn with a new collection named after the NYC borough. These oval-shaped rugs are flat braids that are made of 100% polypropylene and feature the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cablelock construction.

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1/19/2012 12:52:03 PM

Home Textiles Today

January 23, 2012

Rugs

> hometextilestoday.com

Winter 2012 Rug Preview 1

1. Creative Touch Design Studio is introducing the Modern Sari collection of silk rugs that are hand-knotted in India and come in plain and ikat designs. 2. Capel Rugs’ newest ikat-themed hand-tufted rugs are called Pow Wow, not inspired by Native American meets but rather “the power of ikat designs to wow.” 3. Ebisons Harounian Imports’ in-house design team has developed a new collection of handmade rugs that are produced in China of 100% viscose. 4. The Rug Market is introducing the Astra Gray collection, and adding it to its Ecconox line of value-priced rugs. Seen here in the floral gray colorway, Astra pieces are hand tufted of wool and viscose and are made in China.

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1/18/2012 1:56:07 PM

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Home Textiles Today

Janaury 23, 2012

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PEOPLETodaY Sikalis Promoted at GLM WHITE PLAINS , N.Y. — Penny Sikalis has been named vp of busi-

ness development at trade show organizer GLM. In her new role Sikalis will be responsible for new show launches and potential show acquisitions. Prior to GLM, Sikalis served more than 17 years in the home textiles and fashion industries, including marketing and communications positions with the former Springs Industries (Wamsutta division) and Dawson Home Fashions as well as Gear Holdings, a licensing and design firm. She joined GLM in 1994 and was named vice president in 2000. She has held management PENNY SIKALIS positions for the New York Home Textiles Show segment of the New York International Gift Fair, GLM Ex-Tracts, GLM Temporaries at the Dallas International Gift & Home Market, Global Home Décor, Global Home Textiles and Surtex. She will report to GLM ceo Charles McCurdy and maintain her current position as vp/show manager for Surtex. HTT

Vision Fabrics Adds Leahy for Northeast Sales I N DI A N A P O LI S — Vision Fab-

rics has hired industry executive Tom Leahy to join its growing sales team. Over the past 30 years, he has held various executive sales and management positions in the textiles business. At Vision Fabric, he will be responsible for the retail, jobbing and specialty market segments the northeastern U.S.

“We are extremely excited to have a sales professional of Tom’s caliber and industry experience join our sales team” said Tom Carter, national market manager. “He is a true student of the textile trade and possesses a great passion for our industry.” Leahy is based in Exeter, N.H. Vision Fabrics USA is a division of J. Ennis Fabrics. HTT

Cairoli to Head Laura Ashley in the Americas FORT MILL , S.C. — Laura Ashley Inc. has named Penne Cairoli president. She will oversee licensing and ecommerce operations for North and South America. She replaces Ng Kwan Cheong, who has been named ceo of Laura Ashley Holdings PLC, which is headquartered in London. Cairoli has been with Laura Ashley since 1987, most recently as a vp of licensing. At Laura Ashley, she has also held man-

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agement positions in licensing, design, buying, product development and sales. “Her longevity with the brand and industry experience will provide us with valuable direction as we continue to grow Laura Ashley’s business in North America and South America,” said Ng. Laura Ashley Inc. concentrates on licensing the Laura Ashley brand name in North and South America as well as running the company’s ecommerce operations. HTT

Wal-Mart Taps CBS Exec to Head Ecommerce SAN BRUNO, CALIF. — Wal-Mart

announced his upcoming retireStores Inc. has named Neil Ashe ment this past September. the new president and ceo of the Mike Duke, Wal-Mart’s presicompany’s global ecomdent and ceo, said the merce business. company intends to He was most recently create “the next generpresident of CBS Interation of e-commerce, active, leading online combining the latest properties that included in online innovations CBS.com, CNET.com, with physical stores CBSNews.com and to give our customers CBSSports.com, in addia unique and seamNEIL ASHE tion to others. less shopping experiWal-Mart ence.” Ashe replaces Eduardo Castro-Wright, who The ret ailer has

ecommerce businesses in the U.S., the U.K., Canada and Brazil. Prior to his most recent post at CBS, Ashe was ceo of CNET Networks, which focused on technology information, and managed the sale of CNET to CBS. His earlier career includes a partnership at private investment firm Crest Communications Holdings as well an associate position at investment bank Smith Barney, which is now part of Citigroup. HTT

Houck Joins Famous Home N EW YORK — Industry veteran Amanda Houck has become vp of product development and design for Famous Home. She was most recently vp of product development and Marketing for Maytex. “Famous Home shares my vision for trend setting design that sells in the North Ameri-

can marketplace,” said Houck, who will report to Barry Samberg, president and owner. Samberg described Houck as “a highly skilled leader who can understand our customer’s vision and apply it to our business by integrating her branding, marketing and design expertise.” Famous Home produces

shower curtains, bath coordinates, window curtains, table linens and bedding. Its brands include Famous Home, Innovations, Ez Hold, Fifth Avenue, Waverly (bath) and Elegantia. New bedding brands include Jonatex, Essenza, PIP, Covers & Co., Stapelgoed and At Home with Marialu. HTT

Protect-A-Bed Hires Marc de Grave to Run new Canadian Operation G UELPH , O NTARIO — Protect-ABed has named industry veteran Marc de Grave as its vp of business development for the Canadian market in the wake of the protection specialist’s split from Caber Sure Fit. Protect-A-Bed will service the Canadian market directly under de Grave’s leadership. For the first time, the company will also have its own presence at the Canadian Home Furnishings Market, which opens Saturday in Toronto. “We’re excited to bring our global resources and brand awareness to our new office in Canada, which will position us for expansion in many business channels,” James Bell, ceo of Chicago-based Protect-A-Bed, said in a statement.

Bell said Protect-A-Bed intends to bring “a rich value proposition to the Canadian office,” including innovative product, customer service support and access to product trainers. “We have a commitment to release new products that will exceed consumers’ expectations,” he said. “We’re excited to have Marc’s vast experience and knowledge of the marketplace to lead this effort in Canada.” De Grave has worked in sales and marketing for more than 25 years, including as vice president of sales and marketing for Coats, a thread manufacturer whose clients include furniture and mattress producers. He was also vice president of Caber between November 2009 and late 2010.

“I am truly delighted to be part of the PAB team. ProtectA-Bed is the leader of the pack when it comes to mattress protection and their global marketing initiatives are second to none,” de Grave said. “They bring to market not only great quality products, but products that are needed by all and the sales and marketing support that few companies can actually provide.” Bell said Protect-A-Bed will offer its full “Healthy Sleep Zone” offering to Canadian retailers as well as its enhanced warranty registration program. Canadian retailers signing on with PAB also will get access to its sales associates, trainers, customer service representatives and administrative personnel. HTT

1/20/2012 10:21:55 AM

MAKE YOUR

CONNEXION ON MARCH 3, 2012 IN NEW YORK

S AV E T H E D A T E , DETAILS TO COME

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CLASSIFIEDS RETAIL OPPORTUNITY THEY’RE LOOKING FOR YOU Does your idea of a successful day involve a fresh coat of paint on the walls and rearranging the furniture? Do your friends ask you to decorate their homes? Are you a “home fashionista”? Let your passion meet business! Mohawk Home, the largest manufacturer of area rugs, indoor and outdoor mats, and washable rugs in the United States, is now accepting resumes for the position of Home Stylist. As part of Mohawk Industries, the world’s largest manufacturer of floor covering, Mohawk Home can get your fashion ideas in front of buyers from retailers globally. The Home Stylist, through intensive market research, would identify emerging trends entering the home fashion market such as color, texture, pattern, and fiber ensuring that the newest and most innovative ideas/products are added to the brand. Essential in driving the creative process, the home stylist would liaison with retailers, merchandising, design, and production to create product lines that are budget minded yet esthetically pleasing. Qualified candidates should possess a minimum of a four year degree in a fashion related field such as, surface design, interior design/décor, textile design or any other field related to home fashion. A minimum of 5 years progressive work related experience is required. Candidates for this position should have an overall understanding of home fashion, color schemes, patterns, textures, and fibers and be able to incorporate those elements to create product lines that are fashion forward. This position requires a sense of creativity coupled with a higher than average business sense. Travel to industry trade fairs, fashion shows, and fiber vendors to understand product lines as a whole is required. Advising retail buyers in making inventory purchases is an essential function of the job requiring not only above average communication skills, but also an impeccable sense of personal style. Knowledge of sales, marketing and merchandising a plus.

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We offer competitive wages and a great beneﬁts package containing medical, dental/vision, short-term disability, life insurance, vacation pay and 401K Plan. Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/VET/D/AA) To apply please go to: www.mohawkcareers.com Location: US-GA-Sugar Valley

ADVERTISE

w w w. h o m e t e x t i l e s t o d a y. c o m LINES OFFERED Kalin Fabrics Inc., a well known home furnishings fabrics company with a good customer base is looking for:

Independent Sales Agents in various USA and Canada territories. Sales agents only with good experience and good references should apply. Very good commissions offered. Please fax resumes to: 770-587-3964 or Email: kalinfabrics@gmail.com

David Textile Inc. - Growing baby products mfr seeks commissioned sales reps, many territories/accounts open. Products include: receiving blankets, bibs, crib sheets, security blankets, hooded towels and more. Email: Ibushkin@davidtextiles.net

A leading home textile supplier requires reps with following Off good retailers, Drugs and supermarkets, gift stores/beach stores, Caribbean retailers. Email your resumes to cary@nuovacreations.com

HELP WANTED Established California home textile co. seeks Director of Sales & Marketing for new division of English luxury bed linens (www.peterreed.com) being introduced to U.S. retail markets. Requirements include: - Exp. selling home furnishings to hi-end department stores and/or boutiques - Self-starter to lead the development of this brand in the U.S. - Understanding of e-commerce retail channels for luxury goods Applicants to submit resume, salary history to hr@standardfiber.com

Production/Merchandising Manager Home Textile Importer based out of New Jersey seeks a Mandarin Speaking professional to oversee production time lines, sample development, OTD, quality and color from factories in China. Will act as a liaison between China and the USA ofﬁces. Must have Soft Home Product knowledge.Send Resume to hometextileshr@gmail.com

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Do you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment that encourages you to develop and explore your creativity? Do you want the opportunity to be able to interact with the customers who use your designs? Do you feel that you are suited to lead a team of creative people? If you said yes then we are looking for you!

Mohawk Industries is seeking a Senior Director of Design. The ideal candidate should be passionate about home textile design, with an above average ability to recognize design talent in others. A well rounded understanding of color, composition, texture, and pattern required. Demonstrated ability to direct a diverse creative team, while bridging communications between creative and corporate a must. Qualified candidates should have a minimum of a 4 year degree in design/art or a related field. Eight to 10 years prior experience directing the day to day tasks within a design department is required. Prior experience in home textile design preferred. A working knowledge of Photoshop, illustrator, and/or CAD helpful. Company offers very competitive total compensation package including: competitive wages, medical/dental/vision insurance, 401(k) with very nice company match and much more. Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer (EEO/AA M/F/D/V) To apply for this position please go to: www.mohawkcareers.com Location: US-GA-Sugar Valley

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Mohawk Home, the rug, bath, and mat division of Mohawk Industries is currently accepting resumes for our Area Rug Design team. As a part of the world’s largest flooring company, Mohawk Home offers a dynamic fast paced environment where creative people are encouraged to explore new ideas and concepts. We give you the opportunity to be hands on with your designs, traveling around the country personally interacting with teams from major retailers. Qualified Candidates should have a minimum of a 4 year degree in design/art or a related field. An understanding of color and composition, excellent drawing skills, above average communication skills, creativity, and an interest in home furnishings are all a must. Prior professional experience in rug design, textile design, or home furnishing design preferred. A working knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, and/or CAD helpful. Portfolio required. We offer competitive wages and a benefits package that includes medical/dental/vision insurance, prescription plan, disability, life insurance, 401(k) with company match and more. To apply please go to: www.mohawkcareers.com Location: US-GA-Sugar Valley

Home Textiles Today

January 23, 2012

Business

NRF Forecasts 3.4% Sales Growth in 2012 N EW YORK — The National Retail Federation projects total retail sales to grow this year by 3.4% to $2.53 trillion. Last year, sales grew 4.7%. NRF expects high unemployment and uncertainty over jobs to hold back a better rate of growth. NRF added that many economists estimate that real U.S. gross domestic product will rise approximately 2.1% to 2.4% this year. “Over the last 18 months, retailers have been on the forefront of the economic recovery - creating jobs, encouraging consumer spending, and investing in America,” said NRF president and ceo Matthew Shay. NRF is advocating for the federal government to level the playing field between brick-and-mortar and online retailers on the subject of sales taxes

(Internet retailers are not required to collect state sales taxes) and reforming the visa system so more foreign travelers can come to the U.S. to spend money. Shay and NRF’s chairman, Terry Lundgren, who is Macy’s chairman, president and ceo, together outlined the industry’s priorities in a letter to President Obama last week. A number of factors contributed to NRF’s 2012 economic forecast, including: • Employment: NRF notes, “The number of Americans out of work is at its lowest level in nearly three years, and the rise in employment and hours worked should bolster income and spending”; • Income growth: Modest income growth continues to dampen consum-

er spending, according to the NRF. The organization is urging Congress to extend the cuts in payroll taxes and unemployment benefi ts beyond the two-month window it already approved; • Housing: NRF expects home sales and construction will improve slightly in 2012 with low interest rates and affordability at an almost 30-year high; • Inflation: NRF expects inflation to slow down near 2% but cautioned that rising gas prices may put pressure on spending; • Consumer credit: Recent easing in lending standards makes credit more available and increases in revolving credit show consumer confidence toward debt; • Consumer confidence: NRF still sees this measure as “fragile.” HTT

Retail Container Traffic to Bounce Back this Spring W A S H I N GTO N — With the winding down of the holiday spending season, import cargo volume at the nation’s major retail container ports is expected to be nearly flat during January compared with the same month last year. But “significant year-over-year increases” are expected come springtime, according to the monthly Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates. “We’re headed into the slow season for cargo shipments, but forecasts indicate that retailers will be stocking up this spring in anticipation of a moderate recovery as the year progresses,” said Jonathan Gold, NRF vp for supply chain and customs policy. “Cargo volume doesn’t translate directly into sales volume, but when retailers import more it’s because they expect to sell more.”

Global Port Tracker covers the U.S. ports of: Long Angeles/Long Beach, Oakland, Seattle and Tacoma on the West Coast; New York/New Jersey, Hampton Roads, Charleston and Savannah on the East Coast, and Houston on the Gulf Coast. These U.S. ports handled 1.25 million Twenty-foot Equivalent Units in November, the latest month for which after-the-fact numbers are available. That was down 2.1% from October since most holiday merchandise was already on the shelves but up 1.2% from November 2010. One TEU is one 20-foot cargo container or its equivalent. December was estimated at 1.21 million TEU, up 5.9% from a year ago. The total for 2011 was estimated 14.86 million TEU, up 0.7% from 2010’s 14.75 million TEU.

January 2012 is forecast at 1.21 million TEU, up one-tenth of 1% from January 2011. February, historically the slowest month of the year, is forecast at 1.06 million TEU, down 3.3% from a year ago. March is forecast at 1.2 million TEU, up 10.5% from last year; April at 1.26 million TEU, up 3.8%; and May at 1.3 million TEU, up 0.9%. “Continuing uncertainty and the run-up to the elections raise a cloud, as does the pressure on declining incomes as firms hire at lower rates,” said Ben Hackett, founder of Hackett Associates. “Nevertheless, the consumer managed to increase savings during most of 2011 and now has a tidy safety net from which to increase consumption as the risk of unemployment recedes. All of these indicators suggest that we are not heading for another recession, but rather for a sustained level of low growth.” HTT

360 Park Avenue South, New York, N.Y. 10010 Tel: (646) 805-0227; Fax: (646) 365-2307 www.hometextilestoday.com www.facebook.com/httmag EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jennifer Marks 10 Ocean Blvd #8B Atlantic Highlands, N.J. 07716 (732) 204-2012 | jnegley@hometextilestoday.com PUBLISHER/EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Warren Shoulberg (646) 805-0226 | wshoulberg@hometextilestoday.com SENIOR EDITOR Cecile B. Corral 428 Bianca Ave. Coral Gables, FL 33146 (305) 661-7493 | cbcorral@aol.com MANAGING EDITOR Julie Murphy (646) 805-0224 | jmurphy@hometextilestoday.com CONTRIBUTING GRAPHIC ARTIST Desiree Nunez (646) 805-0233 | dnunez@giftsanddec.com DIRECTOR OF MARKET RESEARCH Dana French (336) 605-1091 | dfrench@sandowmedia.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER, ACCOUNT MANAGER CHINA Jeff Reeves (336) 605-1009 | jreeves@hometextilestoday.com ACCOUNT MANAGER NORTHEAST/MIDWEST/ WEST COAST/CANADA Mary McLoughlin (646) 805-0227 | mmcloughlin@hometextilestoday.com CLASSIFIED AD SALES Spencer Whittle (336) 605-1027 swhittle@sandowmedia.com Karen Hancock (336) 605-1047 khancock@sandowmedia.com MANAGER, EUROPE Mirek Kraczkowski Tel: 48 22 401 70 01; Fax: 48 22 401 70 16 | kraczko@aol.com MANAGER, INDIA Kaushal Shah Cell: 91-9821715431; Tel: 91-22-6663 4597 / 24988658 Fax: 91-22-66634596 | Kaushal@kaushals.com ONLINE SALES MANAGER Penny Schneck (336) 605-1084 | pschneck@sandowmedia.com PRODUCTION MANAGER Rich Lamb Tel: (336) 605-1074; Fax: (336) 605-1143 | rlamb@ sandowmedia.com DIRECTOR, WEB OPERATIONS Chris Schultz | (336) 605-1076 | cschultz@sandowmedia.com MANAGER, CLIENT SERVICES, WEB ADVERTISING Dan Sage | (336) 605-1080 | dsage@sandowmedia.com E-MEDIA PROJECT MANAGER Missy Axe | (336) 605-1005 | maxe@sandowmedia.com DIRECTOR OF AUDIENCE MARKETING Allison Ternes (704) 573-9007 | aternes@sandowmedia.com PRESIDENT, FURNITURE TODAY GROUP Kevin Castellani (336) 605-1034 | kcastellani@sandowmedia.com FOUNDING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Carole Sloan 1979-2011

SANDOW MEDIA PRESIDENT AND CEO Adam I. Sandow CFO/COO Christopher Fabian VP CREATIVE AND EDITORIAL Yolanda E. Yoh

Same-store sales

Comps Soften Slightly During January’s Second week

EVP, GROUP PUBLISHER James N. Dimonekas SUBSCRIPTIONS: U.S.A. (866) 456-0405 All other countries: (515) 247-2984 HTTcustserv@cdsfulfillment.com FAX SUBSCRIPTIONS: 1-866-310-7181

N EW YORK — Same-store sales rose 2.8% in the

Johnson Redbook Index

Second week of January year-over-year % change second week of January following a 3.3% gain in the WEEK ENDED 1/07 1/14 1/21 1/28 MONTH TARGET previous week, according to the Johnson Redbook Retail Sales Index. Department stores* 2.7 2.1 2.4 1.9 Discounters 3.6 3.2 3.4 3.3 The discount channel posted a year-over-year inRedbook Index 3.3 2.8 3.1 2.9 crease of 3.2% while the department store sector ex*Including chain stores and traditional department stores perienced a 2.1% gain. Source: Johnson Redbook Index “Sales cooled off in the second week as consumer appetite for clearance bargains became partially satiated and year-end clearance dominated sales activity,” noted Catlin Levis, Redbook analyst. “Sales leader lists varied widely from store to store, fairly typical of a transitional, trend-less month,” she added. Colder temperatures in some parts of the country boosted sales of cold weather apparel, said Levis. “At the same time, retailers don’t read too much into the month, since January is considered a transitional month with low volume business driven by price markdowns and focusing on shifting goods to make room for Valentine’s Day and spring lines.”. HTT

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THE BUSINESS AND FASHION NEWSPAPER OF THE HOME TEXTILES INDUSTRY® 360 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10010 Telephone: (646) 805-0227 Fax: (646) 365-2307 USPS 497-490 HOME TEXTILES TODAY (USPS 497-490) (ISSN 0195-3184) is published 29 times a year except for the weeks of 1/16, 2/6, 2/20, 3/12, 3/26, 4/9, 4/23, 5/7, 5/21, 6/4, 6/18, 7/2, 7/16, 7/30, 8/13, 8/27, 9/17, 10/1, 10/15, 10/29, 11/12, 11/26, 12/10, 12/24 by Furniture/Today Media Group, 360 Park Avenue South, 17th fl., New York, NY, 10010 a subsidiary of Sandow Media LLC, 3731 NW 8th Ave, Boca Raton, FL 33431. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY, and additional mailing offices. HOME TEXTILES TODAY copyright ©2012 by Sandow Media LLC. Annual subscription rates: U.S. and Canada $169.97; 1 year, other countries $325.99 for surface mail . All payments must be made in U.S. currency. Subscription inquiries: HOME TEXTILES TODAY, PO Box 5879, Harlan, IA 51593-1379. Phone: (866) 456-0405. HOME TEXTILES TODAY and THE BUSINESS AND FASHION NEWSPAPER OF THE HOME TEXTILES INDUSTRY are registered trademarks of Sandow Media LLC, used under license. Sandow Media LLC does not assume and hereby disclaims liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions in the material contained herein, regardless of whether such errors result from negligence, accident or any other cause whatsoever. (Posted under Canadian International Publication Agreement No.40624074. Sandow Media/CDS (Mint Hill) POSTMASTER: Send address changes to HOME TEXTILES TODAY, P.O. Box 5879, Harlan, IA, 51593-1379 Email: HTTcustserv@cdsfulfillment.com. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: RCS International; APC; PO Box 503, RPO West Beaver Creek, Rich Hill, ON L4B 4R6

1/20/2012 11:02:41 AM

March 4-8,2012 Spring NY Home Fashions Market Week Major Showroom Buildings Throughout Market

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e! e s o t s hi ion Scawnhotle collect the 1/17/2012 12:43:46 PM