Monday, September 3, 2012
THE BUSINESS AND FASHION NEWSPAPER OF THE HOME TEXTILES INDUSTRY
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hometextilestoday.com
| Vol. 33, No. 19 | $8.00
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New York Home Fashions FIRST LOOK
Monday, September 3, 2012
THE BUSINESS AND FASHION NEWSPAPER OF THE HOME TEXTILES INDUSTRY
MindsInSync Revs Up N EW YORK — MindsInSync – as vp of national sales for the whose memory foam bath mat U.S. market. The original business may construction turned the category on its ear — will make its second have been built around a single New York Home Fashions Mar- mat, but at market MindsInSync ket showing this month from a will show kitchen textiles, bath new permanent showroom at accessories, area rugs, decorative pillows, outdoor cush1350 Broadway between ions, pet accessories, 34th and 35th Streets. back-to-school items The company has also and infant and chilbolstered its executive dren’s products. team and is broadening Its inaugural brand the product categories in remains an exclusive which it does business. at a big box special“There is very much a CHARLES ty retailer. But Mindfocus on R&D and prodGAENSLEN sInSync is pushing uct development here,” MindsInSync forward with its own said Charles Gaenslen, brands: Habitude for who joined the company in May 2011 as chief strategy of- home textiles, Aquatopia for ficer. He was most recently chief children’s goods and Buddy & operating officer and executive Friends for pet accessories. “Our R&D team has a manvp, Welspun USA and prior to date not to work on a product that was Bardwil Linens’ cfo. Industry vet Jeff Kambak unless it is innovative,” Gaenslen came on board in August 2011 SEE MINDS PAGE 36
INSIDE :
Exclusive Research What’s the biggest trigger prompting a woman to purchase new fashion bedding? What’s the top consideration for selecting bath towels? How much will a woman spend on a mattress protector at a department store? The answers are in our new report, which begins after page 14
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hometextilestoday.com
| Vol. 33, No. 19 | $8.00
Hollander Home Fashions Expands Operations
B O C A R AT O N , F L A . — The operative word at HollandCHRIS BAKER er Home Fashions these days Hollander is “new” — new headquarters office here, new Manhattan showroom, new production facility in Los Angeles, and a new designer license introduction (a biggie) coming up at the New York Home Fashions Market.
Hollander’s new headquarters in Boca Raton.
“It’s definitely been a year of real estate for us,” ceo Chris Baker told HTT. In New York, Hollander has relocated from its long-time showroom on Avenue of the Americas into a new space at 440 Park Avenue South (at 30th Street), 10th floor. One of the key product introductions the manufacturer will unveil SEE HOLLANDER PAGE 8
Peking Strides into Utility SAN FRANCISCO — Multi-cate- ness management. In his last pads and fiber/feather beds as gory supplier Peking Handicraft four years at the company, he well as cotton, fleece and plush threw the spotlight on was vp of merchan- blankets. In addition, there will fashion bedding during dising, overseeing the be a utility collection under the the spring market. This growth of the LauSEE PEKING PAGE 36 month, it’s rolling out a ren Ralph Lauren new product category: business as well as utility bedding. private label pro- Inside This Issue Tom Burke joined grams. Caldeira Takes Full Ownership the company this sum“We’re going full of China Operation................ page 2 TOM BURKE mer as director of basic force for market,” Peking A Middling Muddle ............... page 4 Handicraft bedding. He spent 22 Burke told HTT. years at WestPoint in a Peking’s utility Boxed In, Boxed Out ............. page 4 variety of positions, including offerings will include down New Orleans-area merchandising, product devel- and down alt comforters, pil- Linens Shop a Survivor ......... page 6 opment, operations and busi- lows, filled blankets mattress
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8/30/2012 10:54:27 AM
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Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
News ADVERTISEMENT
Caldeira Takes Full Ownership of China Operation Sales of both the company’s UK- ers and has also increased sales in made and China-produced dec- Canada in 2012.” Company/group ceo orative pillows “have Tony Caldeira explained rocketed, following the growth “follows five successful new ranges years of hard work by the launched in 2012.” team, first establishing “This is great news the company and now for Caldeira USA and growing it. When we really exciting for our first set up the U.S. dicustomers as we now have total control of TONY CALDEIRA vision in 2007, nobody predicted the scale of the the factory in China,” Caldeira difficulties which would noted Carolyn Winbe faced by the global derbaum of Caldeira USA. “There is now no doubt economy and the home textiles in our customer’s minds that industry. This makes the team’s they are dealing with the fac- effort even more remarkable and tory directly and it’s no longer I would like to thank both Lindnecessary for them to have a sey Bonney and Carolyn Windsourcing office in China to go erbaum in particular for all their direct to the source. Our new support so far.” team will take the business to But there is still much to be the next level and will improve done, he added, “and it’s imporour sourcing and manufactur- tant that the company builds ing capabilities significantly.” on the momentum it has creatThe company said it has “now ed. We aim do this by hopefully supplied more than half of the expanding our offering with our U.S.’s top 10 home textile retail- existing clients, winning new
BY CECILE CORRAL NEW YORK — U.K.-based home textiles group Caldeira, parent of Calderia USA and Caldeira China, has acquired the 30% share of its former business partner to gain total ownership and control of its Chinese division, also known as Hao Sheng Textiles. The Chinese division has been reclassified as a Wholly Owned Foreign Enterprise (WOFE) and will continue to trade from its 250,000-square-foot factory near Hangzhou. Caldeira China has also invested in a new management team, adding a new general manager, operations manager, and chief accountant. This expansion comes as Caldeira USA division experiences a jolt of sales growth. The company said the New York-based operation is expected to more than double its business by yearend.
business with new clients and expanding our window division.” In other news, the parent company Caldeira has recently starred in a primetime BBC TV documentary. Presented in two one-hour specials, “The Town Taking On China” film highlights the difficulties in re-establishing manufacturing in the West, following years of steady decline due to globalization, and asks if home textile manufacturing is likely to return to the country with prices increasing rapidly in Asia. The film’s crew followed Tony Caldeira for a three-month period at the company’s UK and Chinese factories to document his attempts to increase the company’s British manufacturing business. The documentary also examines the human side of a global home textiles business with members of Caldeira’s UK and Chinese teams changing places and visiting each other’s country. HTT
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Affina Ready For its Close-up PARK RIDGE, N.J. — Just ahead of the New York Home Fashions Week, Surface LLC has launched a hospitality division for its eco-friendly Affina brand fine linens. The site, affinahospitality. com, targets high-end eco-con-
scious hotels, spas, bed &breakfast operations and wellness centers as well as interior designers, architects and purchasing managers. “Affina is nature’s story,” said designer and founder, Mary Ellen Putignano. “Seaweaves,
Bath towels from Affina
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Share of bedding dollar sales for 12 mo end June 2012
Lower cost bedding products like shams and throws, with retail prices generally under $20, are selling well to consumers looking for inexpensive ways to refresh their homes. Even bed-in-a-bags, with average tickets under $50, are proving to be an effective decorating option. Source: The NPD Group, Inc. / Consumer Tracking Service
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Affina Hospitality’s premier collection, is a tribute to the ocean drawing upon the seas’ vast reservoirs for inspiration — energetic patterns from the ocean sculpted in 100% organic cotton towels and spa mitts.” Affina towels are certified as free from more than 300 substances by the Oeko-Tex Standard, she added. During market week in New York this month, Affina will be showing the Seaweaves collection of 12 bath towels and three beach towels at the Chelsea Modern.
Six years in development, Affina plans to extend the brand to include a full line of bedding, spa robes, slippers, bath accessories, rugs, contract fabric, yoga mats and more, according to Putignano. Surface LLC is a womenowned, multi-disciplinary branding and design company. Affina is its first brand. Putignano, a designer and consultant, has worked for 30 years in retail branding, product strategy and design for companies including Crate and Barrel and Conrans. HTT
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September 3, 2012
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OPINIONTodaY A Middling Muddle
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QUEST ION : How is home doing at retail these days? Answer: That depends on the retailer. During the years of the housing bubble, home textiles Ñ and home furnishings generally Ñ were hot pretty much across the board. The category actually began to sag ahead of the market collapse. During the worst of the recession, home textiles sales sank pretty much everywhere, with the rebound beginning at TJX and Ross Stores. Since then, the performance has been spotty, good at some retailers, improving at others and a continuing drain elsewhere. The recent round of quarterly retail reports only conEDITOR-IN-CHIEF Þrmed that trend. Ross: Home once again failed to hit the mark, a performance the company blamed on weak execution. TJX: Rival Ross may have lost its home mojo, but the category is still pumping at TJX formats. Stein Mart: After a few years in the wilderness during which the company attempted various strategies, home Þnally hit the pace during the quarter, with (lo and behold) linens as one of the strongest categories. Big Lots: Home Ñ a winner during the darkest days of the recession Ñ was soft, even though top-of-bed was good. Walmart U.S.: The home department generated a slender comp gain, but it marked the third consecutive positive quarter following 2½ years of negative comps in the department. Basic goods drove the results. Target: Home textiles were a leader in the department, which is still struggling to recapture its former glory. Kohl’s: The home department not only lagged the rest of the store, it was among the weakest divisions. Dollar General: Home was hearty during the quarter, with window treatments a standout. Williams-Sonoma: The home furnishings conglomerate racked up another boffo quarter, with textiles a leader at several of its nameplates. Bed Bath & Beyond: The countryÕs largest home textiles retailer also posted a strong quarter, but said its outlook for the second half is cautious. A red ßag or just another case of the retailerÕs notorious paranoia? JCP: Under construction. When you speak with suppliers about how their core categories are faring at retail the story is much the same Ñ uneven on an account by account basis. Obviously, we are still waiting for the rising tide that will lift all boats. HTT
Jennifer Marks
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Boxed In, Boxed Out
A
F T ER T HE R ISE of the national discounter, which signaled the demise of most regional mass merchants, and before the onset of e-commerce changed all the rules of retailing, the most important development in the history of general merchandise retail was the era of the big-box category killer. No other retailing format had as big an impact on the marketplace as the super specialty store chain, and for much of the 1990s and into the Þrst part of the new century, these stores were the fastest growing, most exciting players on the scene. While Toys ÔRÕ Us is generally credited as the Þrst category killWarren er, the home textiles industry had more than its share of national that grew to dominate much of the sweet spot for business. Shoulberg chains Bed Bath & Beyond is the last man standing, but during the height PUBLISHER/ of the big box, it was joined by a host of others, including LinensÕn EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Things, HomePlace, Waccamaw, Strouds and LeeJay. They are all gone and so, too, could others follow. The struggles at Best Buy make it the poster child right now for the category killer crisis, but many think Barnes & Noble is not too far behind and the ofÞce superstore triplets Ñ Staples, OfÞce Max and OfÞce Depot Ñ could be next. All of this following the demise of stores like Circuit City, Borders and others. The big-box era seems to be drawing to a close É or is it? Across the merchandising wheel, weÕre seeing large superstore formats become the latest thing in the fashion business. Retailers like H&M, Uniqlo and Zara are all opening big ßagship stores measuring out at 50,000-square-feet or more that have big box written all over them. So, whatÕs the difference here? It might be that these apparel boxers are largely private label animals with exclusive, proprietary merchandise offerings. They all appeal to a similar demographic, one used to searching through large assortments online and perhaps expecting to Þnd the same thing when they shop in stores. And not every store these chains is over-sized. Often these giants are viewed as ßagships that can drive trafÞc back to smaller locations when the shopper comes upon them. Can these same principles be used in textiles and home furnishings superstores? Certainly, a bookstore canÕt get away with private label nor can the small appliance department at Bed Bath. But in textiles, the model is increasingly moving toward labels that if not out-andout private are at least semi-private. And weÕve seen retailers like BBB with multi tiers of store sizes from ginormous to non-steroid enhanced. These could all be tools to ensure the longevity of the surviving superstores. The consumer never said she didnÕt like shopping at big boxes. She just didnÕt need them all, and the ones that were left had to be good operations and shop-worthy. Big boxers are not going away. They are just moving onto the next round. HTT
8/28/2012 11:04:50 AM
News
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Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
Retail Briefs Beantown Bedding Touts Laundry-Free Linens BY JENNIFER MARKS H INGHAM , M ASS . — Don’t call
those sheets disposable. True, Beantown Bedding’s “Bedsox laundry-free linens” are meant to be used for several weeks then discarded in a trash or compost bin, but they’re not the bedding equivalent of paper towels. The sheets are made from a blend of Lenzing’s Tencel and
hen Swedish apparel power house H&M opens its new flagship store on Fifth Avenue here next year, it is likely to represent the retailer’s initial foray into home in the United States. Published reports announcing the new store, a sixlevel, 57,000-square foot giant on the corner of 48th Street, say it will feature the full range of H&M product classifications, including home. H&M, which is known for its “fast-fashion” merchandising offering low-cost fashion apparel and turning merchandise quickly, has been featuring home within its European stores for several years but has not sold the category in the United States yet. Earlier this year it said it would begin offering it online here in the fall.
W
—KIRSTEN LAMBERT, Beantown Bedding Kirsten Lambert, left, and Joan Ripple aim to help college kids sleep
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Williams-Sonoma Expanding Global Reach
“It’s the moms who are buying this. The kids aren’t going to spend their beer money on sheets.”
viscose fibers, making their construction 100% cellulosic. Company founders Joan Ripple and Kirsten Lambert came up with the idea after their children went off to college. “We were walking the dogs and talking about how neither of [their children at college] takes the time to wash their sheets,” said Ripple. An idea was born. Ripple — an MBA with a background in human resources and management — and Lambert — who worked for more than 20 years in marketing and market research — first tested PET material made from recycled plastic bottles. They were dissatisfied with both the comfort and the durability. “Through coincidences and luck,” said Ripple, they found a European supplier making temporary sheets for camping and youth hostel sites. After one holiday break, they sent their children and friends back to campus with samples. Some of the students returned the sheets after they’d run their course — the longest use in that first group running to 40 nights. “They’re basically very pilly at that point,” said Ripple. But that’s a good thing, noted
New H&M Flagship in New York to Include Home
Lambert. “It’s a cue that tells them it’s time to change. For us as moms it’s a hygiene issue. For them, it’s about convenience.” Ripple and Lambert also started doing focus groups. Along the way, their project was accepted by a Stanford University business class looking to conduct research on a real start-up business. They founded Beantown Bedding this past December in the Boston suburb of Hingham and hit the road, travelling to the national gathering of the Association of College Conference and Event Directors in March as well as a regional event in June for the Northeast Association of College and University Officers. In July, they stepped up their profile and were among the Lenzing group of exhibitors at the Home Textiles Sourcing Expo in New York, which runs in tandem with TexWorld USA. They’ve also begun selling Bedsox directly to consumers from www.beantownbedding. com and through Amazon. The company is currently focused on building U.S. distribution with an eye on marketing to the parents of college students rather than the kids. “It’s
the moms who are buying this,” said Lambert. “The kids aren’t going to spend their beer money on sheets.” Beantown Bedding has also trademarked the term “laundry free linens.” “We feel ‘disposable’ conveys single use, cheap and uncomfortable,” said Ripple. Because of the cellulosic construction, Bedsox are anti-bacterial and made from rapidly renewable sources. Available only in white, the sheets use no added chemicals or dyes. The line currently consists of a three-piece set (fl at sheet, fi tted sheet and pillow case) in XL twin size at $25 retail or a pair of cases for $9.99. “We’re still working to get into campus stores — and eventually big stores,” said Ripple. They also hope to expand the line into regular twin, full and queen sizes. The children who inspired the business are now seniors. Beantown Bedding, on the other hand, has just wrapped up orientation. “This has been a very quick development for us,” said Ripple. HTT
illiams-Sonoma Inc. is ramping up its international expansion efforts with the opening of four nameplates in Australia early next year. The high-end home furnishings retailer has signed a lease for approximately 22,000 square feet of retail space to house four of its brands — Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, Pottery Barn Kids, and West Elm — at Sydney’s newly constructed Exchange Building at Bondi Junction. These will be the first retail locations outside of North America to be owned and operated by Williams-Sonoma Inc. Additionally, the company will be opening the first Williams-Sonoma, PBteen and West Elm stores in the Middle East later this year. Outside North America, Williams-Sonoma Inc. operates franchise stores in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates. In addition, its direct-to-consumer operations ships to from than 95 countries.
Pier 1.com Reopens Online Doors With New E-commerce Features
P
ier 1 Imports Inc. late last month launched its new e-commerce enabled, fully-redesigned website — ww.Pier1.com — with new functionalities and capabilities. The newest feature made available via the site is “Pier 1 To-You,” which is where website visitors can buy products online and have them shipped directly to the location of their choice within the continental United States – including their local Pier 1 store. Site visitors can also now find design and décor inspiration in the site’s newly unveiled “Get Inspired” and “Learn How” editorial content sections.
Big Lots in Test Mode
L
ooking to improve its business, Big Lots is launching three initiatives/tests for the back half of this year and into 2013: • The testing of coolers and freezers in a group of select stores in five markets; • The roll-out of a new loyalty program in several markets - including the acceptance of government food stamps; • The testing of a new total store remodel effort.
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Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
News
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FIRST MONDAY:
New Orleans-area Linens Shop a Survivor BY CECILE CORRAL METAIRIE, L A. — You might say
Lee McKee’s luxury linens shop, The Linen Registry, could take the proverbial bullet. Marking its 15th anniversary this year, “we’ve survived a lot,” stressed founder and owner McKee, whose upscale shop is located on the main artery of this suburban New Orleans community. “Between some competition in our area, some financial troubles in our past, 9/11, Katrina and the oil spill, to name a few things that might rock a business, we’ve overcome a lot, and we’re still here.” Maybe that is why today, both McKee and her store stand strong, not just unscathed but
unbeaten by numerous challenges. She credits a hurdle in the store’s earliest days with laying the foundation for its resilience. “It all goes back to the very beginning,” McKee told HTT. As she tells the story, her neighborhood already had another prominent linens shop when she opened the store. She wanted to carry Palais Royale high-end linens, but the other store already had the exclusive for the area. “So I had to figure something out,” said McKee, who shifted from graphic design to retail work for Scandia Down shops for several years. She also worked in several department stores before deciding to open her own business.
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Surviving and Strong: Lee McKee and her luxury linens shop, The Linen Registry, have overcome many hurdles over the past 15 years in business.
“I started to call other brands looking for other [high-end] linen lines, and that got me into cross-merchandising. It forced me to find others, like Garnier Thiebaut because Le Jacquard Francaise was part of Palais Royale. It made me learn to come up with a new bedroom look using a variety of brands and looks. And it’s been my saving grace because my customers today know they can come to me for a wide array of products and price points, from an entry-level Matouk top-of-bed collection for $500 to $600 through $7,000 for a Home Treasures or SDH collection.” The Linen Registry’s customers know the store as a traditional linen shop, McKee said. “I have a very small stock of product here. Everything is on the floor. And our offices and bathroom area is tiny.” Almost all of the 1,547square-foot space is used for showcasing products. Four display beds anchor the store, and on them McKee cross-
merchandises an assortment of branded lines to create unique looks and offer décor ideas. “It’s not unusual for us to feature as many as five different brands of manufacturers on a single bed,” McKee explained. Major brands on its home textiles roster include: Scandia Home, Ann Gish, SDH, Sferra, Peacock Alley, Nancy Koltes, Yves Delorme, Matouk, Home Treasures, Anali, Home Source International, N.C. Souther Linens, Bagni Volpi Nueme (BVN), Le Jacquard Francaise, Iosis, Garnier Thiebaut, Chelsea Textiles, “etcetera,” McKee said. The store’s main categories
are bedding, coordinate pieces, and utility/down. “Anything that you would put on a bed, I carry.” Other home textiles offerings include bath, table linens and decorative pillows, especially in connection to top of bed looks, as well as throws. Auxiliary categories include soaps and silk flowers, “great little Chinoiserie figurines” and objects, frames, and other home accessories. McKee said she works hard to create a serene store setting. “We want to create a peaceful place for them to come in to shop, and help them find what they need
8/29/2012 11:31:02 AM
> hometextilestoday.com
to make their bedrooms soothing, too, and not high energy.” There’s another word McKee used for her store: “Haven.” It’s what she called her store post Hurricane Katrina, which ravaged New Orleans in 2005. The storm flooded her home and did worse to most of her friends and neighbors in the area. “But I was very lucky,” she recalled. “It’s one thing when one’s home gets flooded. But if my home and business had both been damaged, it would have been a very different dynamic for me emotionally. This store served as the normal environment for me and many of my customers during that difficult time.” And yet, it was a few years earlier when The Linen Registry experienced “our record day.” “It was the day after September 11, 2001, because everybody was nesting,” McKee said.
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Home Textiles Today
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“I had people coming in, shopping, making decisions to hunker down. They were coming to us to help them make their homes as comfortable as possible because they didn’t want to travel anymore. They were scared. So what better place than here to go to turn your bedroom into your own haven?” As its name suggests, registries make up a component of the store’s business. Bridal, for example, comprises about 10% of sales. “I encourage my bridal customers not to worry about their beds right away,” McKee said, adding that she offers gift cards as part of her bridal registry package. “I urge them to first, finish planning their wedding, then go on the honeymoon, and then come in to the store so we can work together on their bedroom once things have had a chance to settle down.” HTT
8/29/2012 11:32:23 AM
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Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
News
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Hollander Expands HOLLANDER FROM PAGE 1
during market week — which takes place Sept. 10-13 —will be Lauren Ralph Lauren utility bedding, a license that had long been held by WestPoint. “We’ve definitely expanded the line and feel there is significant growth opportunity in better products,� said Baker, who sees the brand doing more in luxury down and premium poly fills. Hollander will begin shipping the line in January. In addition, the company is moving more aggressively into woven blankets. Although it had dabbled in the woven business, the category as a retail offering is getting a boost from new accounts Hollander has opened in the hospitality space. Hospitality “is something Hollander had ignored in the past,� said Baker. “We’ve made good progress this year and expect at particularly strong 2013.� The company continues to grow its own Live Comfortably brand. “It’s in its infancy stage, but we feel it has legs.� A boon to that effort comes
from direct-to-consumer business, which Hollander confines to its major retail accounts with ecommerce divisions. The opening earlier this year of a 200,000square-foot facility in East Los Angeles was “an excellent secondary benefit� to direct shipping. Most of those orders are now processed in Hollander’s Dallas plant, and Baker expects the West Coast operation to supplement that. The L.A. plant replaces two older facilities in the area that are shifting operations over the coming months to the new structure. Similarly, Hollander’s new Boca Raton headquarters replaces an older building the supplier had outgrown and is located near the original site. “It’s literally down the street,� said Baker. While the past decade has seen some significant shifts among utility bedding suppliers — with majors like Pillowtex going out of business and other leaders owning significantly less market share than they did previously — Baker thinks it likely that more could lie ahead. He pointed to price integri-
Hollander’s relocated New York showroom, top, and its new plant in Los Angeles.
ty as a key factor, noting many companies did too much unprofitable business for too long. The other major challenge for the home textiles business as a whole, he said, is product. “We need to be creating innovative products that generate consumer excitement,� he suggested. “We need to give people a better reason to buy based on desire rather than necessity.� HTT
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Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
News
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NYIGF Honors Best New Home Textiles Products N E W YO R K — Alicia Adams
Alpaca received the “Best of Market” award for its Suri fur bedspread at the New York Gift Fair late last month. The competition involved more than 100 products from the fair’s At Home featuring Home Textiles division. Alicia Adams Alpaca’s fur bedspread, made from Suri fur and
baby alpaca herringbone fabric. Suri fur is culled from the alpaca after they have died naturally. No animal killing is involved, according to the company. Other winners and runners up included:
Finalist: Simple Syrup Design House for Honey Child decorative pillows. Finalist: Blissliving Home for its faux fur Chateau throw and pillow.
Dining
Winner: Sferra for its Dario duvet covers and shams, featuring twill herringbone stripes and slim geometric bands woven into a stunning pattern. Finalist: Peacock Alley for the Biagio duvet cover and shams. Finalist: Dallas A. Saunders for its Thea Schrack – Dogwood Pillow Triptych pillows.
Winner: Black Pepper Dessin for its Noir Flora table runner and placemat, featuring gold brocaded flowers on a backdrop of floral hand-embroidered bouquets, made of 100% linen. Finalist: Matouk for its Lulu DK for Mato table linens. Finalist: ecoaccents for its eco-Mats.
Home Accessories
Alicia Adams Alpaca’s fur bedspread
Winner: HedgeHouse for The Throw Bed, a portable and versatile twin-sized down and fiber-filled cushion weighing only four pounds, featuring a removable and washable linen or cotton cover.
Bed
Bath Winner: Alicia Adams Alpaca for its herringbone unisex bathrobe, made of 100% hypoallergenic baby alpaca. Finalist: Busatti since 1842 for linen Giglio towels. Finalist: Scents and Feel for its Fouta towel and Lurex hand-
From left to right: Danielle Giacoponello, At Home Sales Manager; Christian Falkenberg, GLM vp and NYIGF show manager; Kristen Hamilton, At Home sales representative; with the summer 2012 Home Textiles Market Week winners: Liz Rapelye of Sferra; Beata Henrichs of HedgeHouse; Pradnya Korde of Black Pepper Dessin; Alicia Adams of Alicia Adams Alpaca Inc.
towel. “With so many superlative products to consider, our judges were truly challenged to narrow the field,” said Danielle Giacopenello, At Home featuring Home Textiles sales manager. “In the end, these products were chosen as most representative of visionary design direction and innovation in home
textiles.” The panel of judges included: Jennifer Marks, Home Textiles Today; Jenny Heinzen-York, Home Accents Today; Tori Jones, Veranda; Karl Lohnes, CTV/ Metro Media; Susan Tucker, Giftware News; Laura van Zeyl, Home Fashion Forecast; Wanda Jankowski, LDB Interior Textiles; and David Gill, HFN. HTT
Sferra
HedgeHouse
Black Pepper Dessin
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Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
News
Collier Campbell Archive Memorialized PHILADELPHIA — Ilex Publishing is launching a large-format book covering five decades of work from the 30,000-piece archive created by British designing sisters Susan Collier and Sarah Campbell, whose distinctive hand-painted textiles patterns were embraced across the fashion spectrum. Campbell will visit the United States in early November doing events, teaching classes and making appearances in New York and surrounding cities in support of the book, “The Collier Campbell Archive: Fifty Years of Passion in Pattern,” which will publish in the back half of the fourth quarter. Collier passed away last year at age 72. Collier and Campbell began their careers in London during the 1960’s and rose to prominence with collections for Liberty of London Prints. In addition to creating designs for Yves Saint Laurent and Jaegar, Col-
> hometextilestoday.com
Hellenic Rugs Canada Sponsors Indian School BY ALEX LEMONDE-GRAY MISSIAUGA, ONTARIO — Hellenic
lier Campbell patterns were adopted by many home fashions brands over the years, including Habitat, Martex and Stevens, Fishbacher, P Kaufmann, and W-C Designs. One of the most recent iterations of their work consisted of a 2005 collection of bedding, bath and decorative accessories at Kohl’s.
The Collier Campbell archive holds roughs and sketches, colorways and printers’ gams, fabric and wallpaper samples, clothing and other items, according to Ilex Press. The new book will include hundreds of paintings, sketches, inspirations, and other unseen design materials. HTT
Rugs Canada has partnered with Care and Fair, a non-governmental organization working to eradicate child labor, to provide free education for Indian children. Hellenic Canada’s support sponsors 289 students to attend Kantilal Vidyar Mandir School in Badhoi, India, for free, and supplies them with school uniforms and books. Founded in 1987, the school has a preschool program and a primary school through grade five, employing 10 teachers and four administrative staff. The school’s Women Empowerment Center provides free sewing training to girls who have aged out of the school’s standard classes. The school also houses
Kantilal Vidyar Mandir Clinic, which provides free treatment and medicine to approximately 6,000 patients per year. “Hellenic Canada chose to enter into this partnership because we care about the cause of not only eradicating child labor, but to provide opportunity to these children to get education and prosper in life,” said Ankush Gupta, president, Hellenic Rugs Canada. “We have always looked for opportunities to be involved in this cause and were looking to taking our involvement to the next level. One of our preferred suppliers in India introduced us to Care & Fair, and it was an instant synergy. Their work ties directly into our passion!” Gupt a said the company plans to expand its partnership HTT
Above: Hellenic Rugs Canada President Ankush Gupta visits the students at Kantilal Vidyar Mandir School. Below: Kantilal Vidyar Mandir School features a sign above its main entrance celebrating Hellenic Rugs Canada’s support.
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Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
News
> hometextilestoday.com
Big Lots Announces Executive Changes C OLUMBUS , O HIO — Coming off a challenged first half of the year, Big Lots has made certain organizational changes in its executive posts and made some promotions. The company also announced that Douglas Wurl has resigned from his post as evp, merchandising — a position he assumed in mid April 2011. “I’ve always believed our people are our greatest asset and that we continue to develop some of the most talented leaders in the retail industry,” said Steve Fishman, chairman, ceo and president. “As our business continues to evolve, we are positioning our company for the future and rewarding performance of five of our more tenured executives.” The following promotions are effective
immediately, and all report to Fishman: • Lisa Bachmann to evp, coo, responsible for store operations as well and retaining responsibility for the merchandise planning and allocation, information technology and distribution and transportation services departments. Bachmann joined Big Lots in 2002 as svp, merchandise planning/allocation, and in July 2005 took on the additional role of chief information officer. Then in March 2010, she was promoted to evp and assumed responsibility for distribution and transportation services – he last role before her recent promotion. • Charles Haubiel II to evp, chief administrative officer, responsible for the human resources and loss prevention while retaining responsibility for the legal
sible for the treasury and risk management departments as well as overseeing all of the financial activities of the company. He has been with Big Lots since 2000 when he was appointed director of strategic planning. He was then promoted to vp, strategic planning and investor relations in February 2004. Most recently, he served as svp, finance, a post he has held since July 2011. Reproting to Haubiel is Michael Schlonsky, who has been promoted to svp, human resources from his former post as vp, associate relations and benefits. He is now responsible for talent management and oversight of the human resources department. Schlonsky joined Big Lots in 1993, was promoted to director of risk management in 1998 and became a vp in 2000. HTT
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7 West 34th Street Suite # 635 New York , NY 10001
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and real estate departments. He also continues to serve as the company’s general counsel and corporate secretary. Haubiel first joined Big Lots in 1997, and was promoted to vp, general counsel and corporate secretary in 2000. He became svp, general counsel and corporate secretary in November 2004, and assumed the responsibility for real estate in January 2008. In March 2010, he was promoted to evp. • John Martin to evp, chief merchandising officer, responsible for the company’s merchandising, global sourcing and marketing departments. He came to work for Big Lots in 2003 as evp, merchandising, and in April 2011 shifted his focus to evp, administration. • Timothy Johnson to svp, cfo, respon-
S. L. home fashions, Inc.
8/29/2012 4:37:08 PM
Sponsored by
From the editors of
the
Real Housewives OF HOME TEXTILES
New Exclusive Research WE’VE GOT THE INSIDE SCOOP ON HOW WOMEN REALLY FEEL ABOUT SHOPPING FOR HOME TEXTILES. Top features women consider when purchasing bed linens. What they love – and hate – about shopping for textiles. Their go-to destinations for fashion bedding, pillows, pads and bath – and what they consider the sweet spot on pricing for multiple categories on a channel by channel basis. We asked. They dished.
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H2
Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
Special Report
> hometextilestoday.com
SPONSORED BY:
New Colors And Styles Are Reasons Why Women Love To Shop How Women Feel About Shopping For Bed Linens Dislike it
Hate it
8%
3%
Love it
32% Neutral
38% Like it
19% SOURCE: HOME TEXTILES TODAY REAL HOUSEWIVES OF HOME TEXTILES SURVEY, 2012
What Women Love Most “I think it’s cool to see, touch, and feel the new colors.” 39-year-old from Tennessee “Finding a great style at a reasonable price.” 41-year-old from Illinois
“Having brand new, crisp sheets.” 29-year-old from California
“I like looking at the newest designs and colors.” 52-year-old from Michigan “Bed products are very visible and used a lot, so it’s fun to get new ones and then be able to admire and use them.” 31-year-old from New York
“It’s creative and comforting to build a nest.” 54-year-old from Massachusetts
“I love the feel of high quality bed linens. I also like to be on the cutting edge when it comes to colors and design.” 61-year-old from North Carolina “Because it gives me a chance to change the look of the bedroom.” 42-year-old from Florida
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BY DANA FRENCH Fantastic news for the industry: 32% of women love to shop for bed linens and another 19% like to. New colors and styles, the fun of shopping and the ability to update and redecorate a room are among the reasons given as why. As a 32-year-old from California put it, “I love to shop and freshen up things.” A 39-year-old from Tennessee likes “to see new designs and colors.” And, a 46year-old from Maine loves shopping for bed linens because it makes her “excited about choosing what I want, matching the decor in my room and getting new products to sleep on.” Those are some of the significant findings of a survey of women consumers conducted by Home Textiles Today in partnership with Hollywood, Fla.based The Medelia Monitor, an independent women’s research company. In May, Home Textiles Today asked Medelia’ s proprietary panel of women questions about bed and bath textiles. More than 250 women answered the exclusive survey. While only 11% of women answering the survey either hate or dislike shopping for bed linens, it’s important to note that 38% are neutral about the experience, neither liking nor disliking it. The cons for linen shopping include high prices, poor selection, difficulty in finding the correct size and style and fighting large crowds of people in stores. A 49-year-old from Illinois is frustrated by not “finding high quality materials at reasonable prices.” A 35year-old from Florida struggles with “picking out design that goes well with my décor.” Nearly seven out of 10 women cite machine washable as important to them when buying top-of-bed linens and sheets, making it the most important criteria. Comfort and color are the second and third most important linen features, cited respectively by 62% and 60% of responding women. HTT
Most Important Bed Linen Features % who bought in the past 12 months Machine washable
68%
Comfort
62%
Color
60%
Correct fit
53%
Style/look/design
53%
Thread count
52%
Premium cotton
39%
Lowest price
29%
100% cotton
28%
From a trusted retailer
25%
Wrinkle resistant
21%
Anti-allergy
16%
Stain resistant
15%
Cotton/polyester blend
14%
Natural/organic fibers
14%
Anti-bacterial
11%
Brand
10%
Fire resistant
7%
Warranty
5%
Designer label
3%
SOURCE: HOME TEXTILES TODAY REAL HOUSEWIVES OF HOME TEXTILES SURVEY, 2012
What Women Hate Most “The prices!” 63-year-old from Illinois “When the store has little or no selection and things are disorganized and randomly displayed.” 31-year-old from New York
“Finding the correct size in a style I find and like.” 27-year-old from California “Too much from which to choose.” 57-year-old from Florida
“Finding the style I want at a price I can afford.” 41-year-old from North Carolina “Finding what I’m looking for all in one place.” 48-year-old from Louisiana “I most hate the feeling of guessing that a fitted sheet is going to fit right.” 36-year-old from Illinois “The big crowds of people in your way.” 50-year-old from Tennessee
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Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
Special Report
> hometextilestoday.com
SPONSORED BY:
More Than Half Of Women Buy Fashion Bedding To Redecorate Fashion Bedding Where Bought
BY DANA FRENCH Six out of ten women buy new top-of-bed linens as part of a redecorating effort, according to the exclusive data. More than one-third purchase top-of-bed every three to five years and 26% buy every two years. Top-of-bed product featuring designs comprised 27% of buys within the past 12 months, while 19% were neutral in color. Sheets are bought much more frequently, with 44% of the sample buying each year and another 30% buying every two years. Worn out product is the leading purchase trigger with sheets, with redecorating the second-most popular reason. Neutral colors accounted for 36% of the overall sheets bought in the past 12 months, for all bedrooms. Solid, bold colors comprised 19% and solid, pastel colors were 13%. Solid, white sheets were only 10% of those purchased last year — the majority of those purchased for guest bedrooms. Overall, responding consumers spent a median of $100 on new top-of-bed linens and a median of $50 on new sheets. Top-of-bed prices were highest at home textile specialty stores, a median of $200. Textile specialists include Bed Bath & Beyond and Anna’s Linens, as well as boutique stores. With sheets, the department store channel, including Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s, secured the highest ticket price, a median of $75. HTT
Most recent purchase Top-of-bed Sheets
Discount department stores Department stores Mid-priced chains Home textile specialty stores Off-price retailers Online Other direct-to-consumer Furniture and mattress stores Other outlets Warehouse membership clubs Variety/closeout stores
24% 17% 16% 15% 6% 5% 5% 4% 3% 3% 2%
31% 12% 14% 13% 12% 8% 3% 1% 1% 3% 2%
Median amount spent Top-of-bed Sheets
The Budget Discount department stores Department stores Mid-priced chains Home textile specialty stores Off-price retailers
$62 $138 $150 $200 $125
$40 $75 $68 $70 $50
The Buying Frequency Top-of-bed 6 or more years
Sheets
About the Data
6 or more years
18%
Once a year
20% 3-5 years
Every 2 years
7% 3-5 years
19%
44%
24
%
Every 2 years
36% 26%
The Buying Triggers
Thread Count
Once a year
30% Bought in the past 12 months Top-of-bed Sheets
Redecorating Old product is worn out Old product is stained/dirty Old product no longer fits my taste New home/apartment Other* Didn’t have this product
60% 52% 23% 21% 12% 12% 11%
55% 61% 26% 19% 13% 11% 8%
*Includes product was on sale, bought a new type of mattress, children took old product, bought a bigger mattress
The Style
Bought in the past 12 months Top-of-bed Sheets
Other design Neutral color Floral Solid pastel color Solid bold color Plain white Stripes Other
27% 19% 16% 14% 10% 6% 5% 3%
8% 36% 6% 13% 19% 10% 6% 2%
of women don’t know which thread count they prefer.
Home Textiles Today, in partnership with the Medelia Monitor, fielded an online survey about bed and bath linens to the Medelia Monitor’s proprietary panel of women in May 2012. The exclusive survey received responses from 256 women. The research was collected and analyzed by Home Textiles Today’s research department, led by Dana French, director of research. The sponsor of this report, Protect-A-Bed, had no involvement in collecting, analyzing or reporting the data.
Respondent Profile Age of respondent Of those who know,
37 % 9
%
prefer 600 to 999 thread count and
prefer 1,000 or more.
Under 35
18%
35-44
23%
45-54
33%
55-64 65 and over
21% 5%
Household Income Under $30,000
12%
$30,000-$49,999
21%
$50,000-$74,999
21%
$75,000-$99,999
16%
$100,000-$149,999 $150,000 or more
18% 12%
SOURCE: HOME TEXTILES TODAY REAL HOUSEWIVES OF HOME TEXTILES SURVEY, 2012
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Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
Special Report
> hometextilestoday.com
SPONSORED BY:
Pillows Bought More Frequently Than Mattress Pads, Protectors BY DANA FRENCH Nearly one-third of women purchase a new sleep pillow every year, while another third buy one every two years. Last year, 35% of the survey’s sample bought pillows at discount department stores, such as Target and Wal-Mart, and 14% bought at a home textiles specialist, including Bed Bath & Beyond. Overall, a median of $30 was spent on a new sleep pillow and 62% bought because their old pillow was worn. With mattress pads, almost one-fourth bought at a discount store, spending a median of $30 there. Women buying at mid-priced chains, such as JC Penney and Kohl’s, spent a median of $50. Typically, mattress pads are bought every three to five years. Mattress protectors are the least-often bought utility bedding product. One-third of the survey sample purchases a new protector every six years or more, while 31% buy every three to five years. Last year, 53% of those who purchased a mattress protector bought a new one because the old product had worn out and 61% did so since they were redecorating the entire bedroom. Another 29% stated their current protector was stained or dirty. More than half of responding women are very interested in products that protect mattresses and pillows from bed bugs, dust mites and allergens. HTT
Distribution Channels Department stores are full-line operations carrying a variety of merchandise, including national and regional stores. Examples include Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Belk, Dillard’s and others. Discount department stores are general merchandise retailers, including national, regional and local stores. Examples include Wal-Mart, Target, Kmart and Shopko. Furniture and mattress stores include stores where furniture and mattresses is the total business or single largest category. Includes regional and national stores such as Mattress Firm, Sleepy’s and Rooms To Go, as well as local independent stores. Also includes lifestyle furniture stores, such as Ikea, and manufacturer-branded furniture stores where the majority of product comes from a single manufacturer, such as Select Comfort and Ashley Furniture HomeStores. Home textile specialty stores are stores where home textiles are the total business or single largest category. Chains include Bed Bath & Beyond and Anna’s Linens. Also includes local stores. Mid-priced chains fall somewhere between department and discount stores on the price spectrum. Examples include JCPenney, Kohl’s, Sears and Stein Mart. Off-price retailers carry a variety of merchandise, generally including apparel as well as home textiles and décor. Examples include T.J. Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods, Luxury Linens and Ross. Online retailers include online sites whose primary distribution is through the Internet. Other direct-to-consumer retailers include catalog merchants, such as Brylane, The Company Store and Lands’ End, and home shopping networks, such as QVC and HSN. Other outlets include military exchanges, children’s specialty retailers, drug stores, health stores and doctor offices, among others. Variety or closeout retailers generally carry low-priced goods, including home textiles, housewares, health and beauty and home decorative items. Includes Big Lots, Family Dollar, Dollar General, Tuesday Morning, The Christmas Tree Shops and Roses. Warehouse membership clubs include Costco, Sam’s Club, BJ’s and local or regional clubs.
Utility Bedding The Buying Frequency Sleep pillows
Mattress pads
Mattress protectors
6 or more years
Once a year
Once a year
12%
13%
12%
Once a year 3-5 years
32%
21% Every 2 years
35%
6 or more years
27%
6 or more years
Every 2 years
33%
22%
Every 2 years
24%
3-5 years
3-5 years
38%
31%
Where Bought
Most recent purchase Mattress Mattress Sleep pillows pads protectors
Discount department stores Home textile specialty stores Mid-priced chains Department stores Furniture and mattress stores Warehouse membership clubs Off-price retailers Variety/closeout stores Online Other direct-to-consumer Other outlets
The Budget
35% 14% 11% 10% 10% 6% 6% 4% 2% 1% 1%
24% 19% 16% 11% 10% 6% 5% 2% 5% 2% < 1%
40% 14% 6% 11% 20% 2% 2% < 1% 5% < 1% < 1%
Median amount spent Mattress Mattress Sleep pillows pads protectors
Discount department stores Home textile specialty stores Mid-priced chains Department stores Furniture and mattress stores
Importance Level of Mattress and Pillow Protection From
$25 $40 $35 $80 $50
$30 $38 $50 $88 $75
$30 $40 $30 $60 $75
% rating as important
Dust mites
73%
Bed bugs
69%
Allergens
67%
Stains and spills Bed wetting and incontinence
61% 33%
SOURCE: HOME TEXTILES TODAY REAL HOUSEWIVES OF HOME TEXTILES SURVEY, 2012
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8/24/2012 10:10:24 AM
Special Report
> hometextilestoday.com
H7
Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
SPONSORED BY:
Women Cite Color As Most Important Bath Linen Feature BY DANA FRENCH
Bath Linens
With bath linens, color trumps all other features. Three out of four women answering Home Textiles Today’s exclusive survey responded that color is a vital feature when buying new bath linens. Comfort is the second-most important feature, cited by 69% of responding women as imperative and the product’s style or design was chosen by another 64%. Brand is an important criterion to only 14% of the sample and designer labels are critical to only 4%. Sixty-five percent of women buy new bath linens because the old product is worn out. They must wear out a lot as 34% purchase new bath towels each and every year and 43% buy new wash cloths once a year. Bath rugs are bought less frequently, with 30% of the sample buying a new bath rug every three to four years. One-third of the sample bought new bath towels at a discount department store last year; 22% at a mid-priced chain; and 18% at a home textile specialty store. Overall, a median of $40 was spent on new bath towels. Women buying towels at department stores spent the most, a median of $80, while those buying at off-price retailers and mid-priced chains spent the least, medians of $35 and $30 respectively. HTT
Most recent purchase Bath Bath Wash towels rugs cloths
Where Bought Discount department stores Mid-priced chains Home textile specialty stores Department stores Off-price retailers Online Furniture and mattress stores Variety/closeout stores Other outlets Warehouse membership clubs Other direct-to-consumer
33% 22% 18% 9% 8% 2% 2% 2% 2% 1% 1%
32% 16% 21% 6% 8% 3% 4% 6% < 1% 3% 1%
44% 23% 16% 7% 4% < 1% 4% < 1% < 1% 2% < 1%
Median amount spent Bath Bath Wash towels rugs cloths
The Budget Discount department stores Mid-priced chains Home textile specialty stores Department stores Off-price retailers
$38 $30 $50 $80 $35
$25 $40 $40 $35 $25
$10 $15 $20 $25 $20
Most Important Bath Linen Features
% who bought in the past 12 months
The Buying Frequency Bath towels
Bath rugs
Wash Cloths
6 or more years
6 or more years
6 or more years
8%
14%
10% Once a year
27%
Once a year
34%
3-5 years
3-5 years
Every 2 years
30%
Every 2 years
Every 2 years
29%
26%
43%
26%
3-5 years
32%
Once a year
21%
The Buying Triggers Bought any bath linens in the past 12 months
Color
75%
Comfort
69%
Style/look/desgin
64%
100% cotton
44%
Lowest price
36%
From a trusted retailer
23%
Natural/organic fibers
20%
Brand
17%
Anti-bacterial
14%
Cotton/polyester blend
14%
Stain resistant
13%
Anti-allergy
6%
Warranty
5%
Designer label
4%
SOURCE: HOME TEXTILES TODAY REAL HOUSEWIVES OF HOME TEXTILES SURVEY, 2012
Old product is worn out
65%
Redecorating
44%
Old product is stained/dirty Old product no longer fits my taste New home/apartment Didn’t have this product
Top Features by Age
26% 12% 10% 5%
Under 35 1. Color 2. Lowest price 3. Comfort
35-44
45 and over
Color Style/look/design Comfort
Color Comfort Style/look/design
SOURCE: HOME TEXTILES TODAY REAL HOUSEWIVES OF HOME TEXTILES SURVEY, 2012 SOURCE: HOME TEXTILES TODAY REAL HOUSEWIVES OF HOME TEXTILES SURVEY, 2012
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News
> hometextilestoday.com
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Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
Surtex Expected to Grow for 2013 Event WHITE PLAINS , N.Y. — Exhibi-
tor count is expected to climb by about 10% over last year for the 27th edition of the Surtex trade show for licensing in the art and design market in spring 2013. As many as 300 companies — compared to last year’s 273 — from the United States and South America, Europe and Asia will present new, original art and design for license and sale during the show’s three-day run May 19 to 21 at the Jacob K.
C&F Joins Pinterest BY ALEX LEMONDE-GRAY N EWPORT N EWS , VA . — C&F Enterprises has found online interaction success since joining Pinterest earlier this summer, the company stated. As of March, Pinterest, a social media website where users post and share images on virtual pinboards, had 104 million users, according to CIO Today. C&F drove initial traffic to its Pinterest page with a Snap to Win contest, which challenged retailers to send the company photos of their their best displays incorporating C & F products for a chance to win a $300 gift card. “We received many great display photos and had a lot of fun watching the contest resonate with consumers,” said Jennifer Sheridan, national sales manager, C&F, of the Snap to Win event. The company’s Pin-spirational Displays board was inspired by the contest. Photos of inventive displays are regularly posted to the board by sales representatives and store owners. As of mid-August, C&F had 13 mood boards with 241 pins. Other boards featured on the company’s page feature trending themes that reflect C&F product inspiration as well as existing products in the company’s catalog. C&F also had a soft launch of a Pinterest page for Gallerie II, the company’s holiday and home décor division. The company further detailed Gallerie II’s Pinterest debut and a promotional contest in its August e-newsletter. HTT
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Javits Convention Center. Target markets include textile design for apparel and decorative fabrics, linens, tabletop, wall coverings and floor coverings, as well as giftware, stationery. greeting cards, gift wrap and other paper products, toys, ceramics, packaging and publishing. “The top-notch talent in the international design world —
textile designers, illustrators, graphic designers, art brands and fine artists, among others — plan to exhibit at Surtex,” said Penny Sikalis, vp of GLM and manager of the Surtex show. “It is the one trade show where they know more than 6,000
PENNY SIKALIS GLM
representatives of manufacturers and retailers from 46 countries across the globe come to seek out the latest ideas for products for their consumer and institutional markets.” In line with its tradition, the upcoming show will include a hefty line-
up of conference sessions covering various topics, “from learning the licensing basics through the most timely issues affecting art and design businesses.” International forecasting professionals will share the latest news in the Trend Theatre, open to all exhibitors and attendees. The Trend Theater launched at this year’s Surtex. HTT
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230 W FIFTH AVENUE • SUITE 402 NEW YORK, NEW YORK INDOOR/OUTDOOR RUGS • HAMPERS & BASKETS • STAIR TREADS • CHAIR PADS • PETS MERCHANDISE Info@bettertrends.com • www.bettertrends.com • Tel : 510 931 9647
8/28/2012 11:08:13 AM
24
Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
> hometextilestoday.com
PEOPLETodaY Kas Taps Roan To Head Sales S OMERSET, N.J. — Kas Orien-
tal Rugs has named industry veteran Steve Roan as the company’s new vice president of sales and marketing. He reports to Rao Yarlagadda, president. Roan, who has working in the area rug and carpet business for
more than 20 years, hails most recently from Karastan Rugs, where he served as vp. In his new post, he is responsible for managing the company’s network of sales agents “and will take a leading role in developing new programs, as Kas continues to increase its market
share and brand awareness,” said Yarlagadda. Roan described Kas as “a style and design leader in our industry,” adding that “the professionalism throughout the organization is well known. It is a terrific opportunity and I look forward to the future.” HTT
Ross ceo to Exit in Summer 2014
P L E A SA N T O N , C A L I F . — Ross
Stores vice chairman and ceo Michael Balmuth will step down as chief executive June 1, 2014, after which will become executive chairman. The off-price chain’s board of directors said it expects to elect a
new ceo from within the company’s executive ranks. In his role as executive chairman, Balmuth will remain an active employee of the company, with property development and dd’s Discounts continuing to report to him. He has
been with the company for 23 years – 16 of them as ceo. Norman Ferber, Ross’ chairman of the board, will become chairman emeritus in June 2014, with his current consulting responsibilities to remain unchanged. HTT
Art Engel, 79 GREAT NECK , N.Y. — Services
were held here Aug. 21 for Art Engel, a long-time home textiles industry veteran who crafted two careers in the business, first in the curtain business and then with his own travel agency that catered to the industry. Engel, 79, died from complications after a heart attack. The first portion of his career was spent with Cameo Curtains, the window specialist that later became part of CHF. He worked there for 30 years.
But Engel only left there to begin the next chapter of his life, joining his wife Rita to create Crossways Travel, an agency that specialized in serving the home textiles industry. That business operated for many years and at its height Crossways hosted several thankyou parties for its clients at the Top of the Tower club where prizes included free airline tickets, hotel stays and other travel arrangements. It was a hugely popular event and Art and Rita
were the quintessential hosts. Later Crossways morphed into a hotel reservations service called NYCHotelDISCOUNTS.com that continues today. In addition to his wife, he is survived by three sons, Marc, Stuart and Jamie and daughtersin-law Toby and Vicki, as well as two grandchildren, Ryann and Drew. The family has asked that donations be made to ACLD is his name at www.acld.org. HTT
Family Dollar Appoints New Home Merchant MATTHEW, N.D. — Family Dol-
lar has promoted Holly ShaskeyPlatek to senior vp – merchandising for the home, apparel and seasonal divisions. She reports to Paul White, executive vp – chief merchandising officer. She joined Family Dollar in 2008 as a consultant on change
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management leadership. Prior to that, Shaskey-Platek spent 25 years in retailing. She held positions at Target and ShopNBC in men’s apparel and private brand development as well as assortment planning. “Capitalizing on a greater share of customers’ discretional
needs is critical to our ability to increase the sales productivity of our stores and to grow our market share,” said White. “Under Holly’s leadership, we will continue to focus on assortment, merchandise presentation and promotion, supplier relationships, and business capabilities.” HTT
ABC’s Kurczewski Joins H.D. Buttercup L OS A NGELES — Li Kurczewski has joined luxury home furnishings retailer H.D. Buttercup as president, reporting directly to founder and ceo Evan Cole. Kurczewski will be responsible for product merchandising, product development, creative direction, in-store visuals, business development, and fashion for both the LA and San Francisco Buttercup stores. She spent more than 15 years at ABC Carpet & Home in New York as senior executive vp of merchandising and creative – where she oversaw sourcing and buying, including developing product with artisans around the world and curating ABC’s visual merchandising, partner-branded
shop development, and corporate image. “Li is an outstanding merchant and leader and brings with her a lucrative 20-year career in the luxury retail business. Her talents add an eclectic, vibrant dynamic to our robust business as we continue growing into greater prominence and expansion. I’m thrilled to work with Li again,” said Cole, one-time ceo of ABC. Kurczewski called Buttercup “an incomparable retailer” and said she is happy to work with Cole again. “I am truly fortunate to once again collaborate on new energy and substantive change to the mediocrity currently afflicting the industry.” HTT
Momeni Expands Sales Team
CARLSTADT, N.J. — Momeni has
announced the expansion of its sales team in three key markets – the Midwest, Florida and Northern California. The appointments were made over the past few weeks and are effective immediately. Geoffrey Siebold, who in the past held management positions for Couristan and Tufenkian, is set manage all product lines for retail partners in the threestate region of Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana. He is based in Chicago. Managing business in Florida is now Elaine Greenberg, who brings more than 20 years of career experience to her new post. She is based in state. And married couple Phil
Rosenberg and Deb Heymann are the new area rug salespeople for the Northern California region. Together, they have been serving furniture and flooring stores in the area for more than 20 years. They are based in Sacramento. All salespeople report to Stephen Hoberman, national sales manager. “The recent expansion of the sales team positions Momeni to fulfill the company’s goal of expertly servicing our dealers across the entire U.S.,” said Reza Momeni, president. “The salespeople are charged with promoting our products and service in line with our tradition of quality. We are fortunate and proud to have such great additions.” HTT
8/28/2012 11:42:10 AM
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Home Textiles Today
> hometextilestoday.com
September 3, 2012
BUSINESS TodaY Textiles Help Williams Sonoma Post Strong Second-Quarter Results SAN FRANCISCO — Williams-So-
noma Inc. singled out textiles among the key drivers of its strong business during the second quarter, when the company reported increases in sales and comps. The multi-nameplate corporation is also planning to expand its reach with the November launch a new direct-toconsumer brand. More details about the effort will be shared in the fall, according to president and ceo Laura Alber. Net earnings for the quarter ended July 29 climbed 10.4% to $43.38 million, or 43 cents per share. Total sales rose 7.3% to $874 million. Direct-to-customer (DTC) sales were up 12.6% to $414 million, with increases across all brands. Growth was led by Pottery Barn and West
• West Elm, up 15.6%; • PBTeen, up 0.8%. Alber noted that PBTeen’s “demand is showing steady improvement from the first quarter” aided by a “strong response to textiles led by our dorm initiative and new fall assortments.” To build on the momentum, PBTeen recently partnered with Burton Snowboards for an exclusive collection of teen-oriented textiles and decorative
Elm as well as incremental net revenues from Rejuvenation. E-commerce net revenues increased 13.9% to $361 million. DTC accounts for 47% of total revenue, up from 45% a year ago.
Comp sales were up 7.4%. Comps by nameplate were: • Pottery Barn, up 11.7%; • Williams-Sonoma, down 0.4%; • Pottery Barn Kids, up 3.8%;
Same-store sales
Comps Finish August Ahead of Plan NEW YORK — Same-store sales rose 1.5% in the fourth and fiJohnson Redbook Index nal week of August following Fourth week of August, year-over-year % change a 1.9% gain in the prior week, WEEK ENDED 8/4 8/11 8/18 8/25 MONTH TARGET according to The Johnson RedDepartment stores* 0.7 0.5 0.6 0.2 0.5 (0.1) book Retail Sales Index. Discounters 2.7 2.5 2.6 2.2 2.5 2.6 Month-to-date, August was Redbook Index 2.0 1.8 1.9 1.5 1.8 1.7 up 1.8% compared to August *Including chain stores and traditional department stores of last year, just outpacing a Source: Johnson Redbook Index targeted 1.7% gain. MonthConsumers in the Gulf Coast region were over-month showed a 0.4% drop, slightly better than the expected 0.5% also stocking up on emergency suppliers ahead of Tropical Storm Isaac, which especially benedrop. “Young people are increasingly shopping for fited discounters, she said. “Looking forward, our preliminary target fall clothing later into the season after school begins,” explained Catlin Levis, Redbook analyst. for September is a 2.0% year-over-year gain, “Hot weather and waiting for deeper discounts or a 1.3% month-over-month increase,” she added. HTT made for a slower weekly performance.”
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accessories. West Elm saw double-digit growth in textiles, furniture, decorative accessories and lighting. In the third quarter the brand plans to broaden the product assortment, particularly in the seasonal and gift-giving categories, and will add five more stores. Year-to-date, net earnings climbed 4.5% to $74.1 million, or 73 per share. Total sales were up 6.7% to $1.7 billion. HTT
Tuesday Morning Takes Q4 Hit From Former ceo’s Departure DALLAS — Because of costs associated with the abrupt departure of ceo Kathleen Mason in early June, Tuesday Morning recorded a steeper net loss in the fourth quarter than it would have. The 852-unit closeout chain reported a net loss for the period, ended June 30, of $2.0 million, or 5 cents per share, compared to net loss of $1.4 million, 3 cents per share, for the same period last year. Excluding the expenses from Mason’s exit, the retailer’s net loss was $700,000 or 2 cents per share. Sales inched up 0.8% to $196.4 million, with comps slipping 0.2%. Average ticket was up 2.9%, but traffic was down 2.7%. For the full fiscal year, earnings per share were 9 cents versus EPS of 22 cents for the previous year. Excluding costs associated to Mason’s departure, earnings per EPS was 12 cents. Year-to-date sales came in
at $812.8 million, a 1.0% dip. Comps were down 3.1%, the result of a 3.3% decrease in traffic that was partially offset by a 0.2% increase in average ticket. Michael Marchetti, president and interim ceo, said that as Tuesday Morning embarks on a new fiscal year it’s “focused on improving our sales performance. Innovative sourcing of new merchandise, implementing merchandise initiatives with respect to better allocation and in-stock positions, improved ecommerce performance, a new customer loyalty program, and continued improvement in our store portfolio are all being deployed to drive sales growth and improve profitability.” The company’s outlook for the new year calls for sales in the range of $820 million to $830 million, comparable store sales to be roughly flat, and earnings per share to be in the range of 18 to 23 cents. HTT
8/28/2012 12:13:48 PM
*
Stop by and see our comforters, quilts, blankets, throws & decorative pillows at 230 5th Ave., Suite 711.
E ELLISON FIRST ASIA
*Cole & McVoy, Brand Study, April 2010
230 Fifth Avenue, Suite 711 New York, NY 10001 212-869-0540
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Home Textiles Today
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Business
HTT Global Home Show Market Kick-Off Party Sponsors:
Big Lots’ Home Business Bruised in Second Quarter COLUMBUS, OHIO — Even though top-ofbed and overall bedding goods proved bright spots, the home department as a whole at Big Lots took a blow during the second quarter, contributing to the company’s poor performance in the period and first half of 2012. But plans are already underway to make improvements in time for the all-important fourth quarter holiday selling period, noted Steve Fishman, chairman, president and ceo. “The softness we experienced in Q1 continued into Q2,” he explained during the company’s quarterly call in late August. “In Q1 the challenges were centered on electronics and consumables. We intensely focused on those categories, made changes, and experienced some trend improvements in the second quarter.” As Big Lots moved through second quarter, its more discretionary categories lost their footing, “namely furniture, home and seasonal.” Fishman said the cause for home’s decline was “more self-inflicted than anything. We had made major changes and major commitments to inventory
and floor space for that program that got executed mid to late second quarter. Parts of that program worked, particularly top-of-bed and bedding — that’s doing well. Other parts of it, from an execution standpoint, we have not done as well with [them], particularly the house-wares and the decorative areas. But we believe that we will be up and running at a better rate going into the end of the third quarter and into the fourth quarter. We believe we have a very solid program. We’re already seeing receipts of that inventory.” In the second quarter, ended July 28, Big Lots took a 38% hit in net income, which dove to $22.0 million. Income from continuing U.S. operations totaled 42 cents per share (nonGAAP) compared to income from continuing U.S. operations of 52 cents per share (non-GAAP) for the same period of fiscal 2011. Sales for U.S. operations increased 1.7% to $1.18 billion. Comparable store sales for U.S. stores open at least 15 months decreased 1.9% for the quarter. For the year-to-date period, income from continuing operations totaled
$62.9 million, or $1.00 per diluted share. That included an after-tax charge of $3.4 million, or 5 cents per share. At the company’s one-year-old Canadian operations, second quarter results included: a 175% increase in net loss to $3.3 million, or $0.05 per diluted share (non-GAAP), compared to a net loss of $1.2 million, or $0.02 per diluted share (non-GAAP) for the same period of fiscal 2011; and a 10.2% decline in net sales to $35.0 million from the last year $39.0 million. Looking to improve its business, Big Lots is launching three initiatives/ tests for the back half of this year and into 2013: • The testing of coolers and freezers in a group of select stores in five markets; • The roll-out of a new loyalty program in several markets - including the acceptance of government food stamps; • The testing of a new total store remodel effort. Big Lots offered its 2012 outlook for both its U.S. and Canadian operations. HTT
Fred’s Braces For Challenges in Second Half MEMPHIS — Fred’s Inc. reported a strong
double-digit net income increase as well as more modest positive sales for its second quarter and year-to-date results, but comps were lackluster for both periods. As ceo Bruce Efird explained, Fred’s positive performance in the second quarter “reflected several unusual items. The 31% increase in earnings for the quarter included the positive impact of a complex state income tax settlement that added $0.11 to earnings per diluted share - clearly a benefit to the company and its shareholders.”
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But, he continued, this benefit “was reduced significantly by one-time adjustments related to the accelerated closing of 14 stores and added promotional markdowns for product transitioning.” Good news for home, he cited. “Several merchandising initiatives that we have rolled out this year also did well in the quarter” – namely those for bedding, bath, housewares, and financial services.” Results were also strong in the pharmacy department, and the company continued to see “excellent startup performance” from its newly opened
stores. For the second quarter, ended July 28, Fred’s net income increased 20% to $6.1 million, or 17 cents per share. Sales were up 4% to $470.8 million, but comparable store sales dipped 1.0% on top of the year-ago period’s 0.4% decline. For the first six months period, net income jumped 13% to $16.5 million, or 45 cents per share. YTD total sales increased 4% to $971.3 million, with comps falling 0.5% versus a 0.4% increase for the same period last year. HTT
8/28/2012 12:15:42 PM
IT’S BACK! THE BIG HTT MARKET KICK-OFF PARTY IS BACK AT THE 230 FIFTH AVENUE ROOFTOP Sunday, September 9, 2012 5:30pm – 7:30pm
Sponsored by:
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Warren Shoulberg at wshoulberg@hometextilestoday.com or 646-805-0226.
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News
> hometextilestoday.com
Babies “R” Us Debuts Heidi Klum Collection BY JANE KITCHEN W AY N E , N . J. — The Heidi
Klum Truly Scrumptious collection is making its debut at Babies “R” Us stores across the country last month. The worldrenowned fashion icon and mom of four created a line of apparel, gear, room décor and furniture for the superstore, and Facebook and Twitter prelaunch activities, as well as a dedicated microsite, babiesrus. com/heidiklum, have been garnering excitement for the Sept. 15 launch. The company said this is the beginning of a long, collaborative relationship between Klum and Babies “R” Us that will include multiple new collections each year. “Heidi Klum is known for her undeniable fashion sense, but she’s also a hands-on mom of four who is representative of the millions of mothers who shop with Babies ‘R’ Us for the coolest mom must-haves, newest apparel and the latest gear,” said Neil Mulhall, vice president, divisional merchandising manager for Babies “R” Us. Truly Scrumptious apparel and accessories range from $4.99 to $39.99, and include layette for newborn to size 24 months; toddler apparel to 5T; and bibs, hats, mittens, booties, socks and sneakers. The Truly Scrumptious line also includes three colorful patterns of bedding with matching room décor: Butterfly Wonderland, Dinosaur Tracks and Boho Harmony. The décor
features paper lanterns, flowing canopies, paper mobiles, detailed lamps and decorative rugs. Elaborate wall art packages featuring 2-D and 3-D decals to create murals of trees, grass with flowers, dinosaurs or butterflies, will also be available at launch. Two styles of furniture are also part of the mix, including cribs and dressers available with two or five drawers, in a white or sienna wood finish, which boast distinguishing details such as rope-like trim. The line will also launch with the Scope stroller, which comes in three colors, blue, raspberry and black. “I always knew that I wanted to create great items for children - but I wanted to find a home where all of my ideas
Heidi Klum’s Butterfly Wonderland collection festures pinks and purples and butterflies of all shapes and sizes. It includes a 4-piece bedding set, quilt, fleece blanket, butterfly rug, diaper stacker, hanging sheer canopy, window drapes and window valance.
for babies and kids could be under one roof with a company that is truly the authority in the world of babies and kids,” said Klum. “I finally found that with Babies “R” Us and am so excited to partner with them to launch my Truly Scrumptious collection. I designed this first collection not only with adorable kids in mind, but I thought of all the little details to make things easier on moms,
too. From cool and stylish mixand-match apparel, to fun and colorful floor-to-ceiling room décor, my Truly Scrumptious line has it all.” Babies “R” Us will begin airing a national TV commercial this month to support the Truly Scrumptious launch. Print advertisements will also appear in parenting magazines, newspaper circulars and Babies “R”’ Us catalogs throughout the
fall. Additionally, the company has created a 100-plus page Big Baby Book, which highlights hundreds of must-have products and includes the introduction of Truly Scrumptious by Heidi Klum merchandise. The resource, which is available in Babies ‘R’ Us stores and OBGYN offices nationwide, features Klum on the cover. HTT
ART Unveils New Logo, Tagline CHARLOTTE, N.C. — ART, the association for the home
accent and accent furniture segment of the home furnishings industry, launched the first stage of its rebranding process, a new logo accompanied by the new tag line, “A Creative Home Furnishings Network.” “The new tag line ‘A Creative Home Furnishings Network’ is a true reflection of the association’s membership and our mission to foster design creativity. The new logo is modern and colorful, just like our members,” said Sharon Davis, executive director of ART. “The marketing team has done an amazing job translating those principals.”
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Also part of this first rebranding stage, the association will begin only using the acronym ART rather than its
full name. The second stage involves the launch of a new website with additional member features this fall. And the third stage incorporates the new look into all ART sponsored programs and marketing during the next year. Amongst these programs is the ART Card, which will continue to use the old logo until phased out and replaced. ART assembled a marketing committee last spring, tasked with modernizing the association. The committee included Robbin Wells, Dallas Market Center; Kellee Hollenback, Troy/CSL/Littman Brands; and Vanessa Turney, Light by Design. HTT
8/27/2012 5:17:08 PM
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Featured Exhibitors at
Home Textiles Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Global Home Show
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See these and other exhibitors at 295 5th Avenue and 7 West 34th Street.
Sept. 9-13, 2012 Untitled-33 2
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Pradip
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ACS Textiles
United Weavers
Chortex
Contour Products
Al Karam
September 9-13 ,2012 Fall NY Home Fashions Market Week Major Showroom Buildings Throughout Market
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For exhibition space, please contact: Joe Carena, Show Manager, jvcarena@gmail.com (203) 329-9553 Warren Shoulberg, Publisher, Home Textiles Today, wshoulberg@hometextilestoday.com (646) 805-0226
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Don’t forget to ask your Account Manager for great package rates for the Show Issue. Don Wingate ............ 336.605.1035 • dwingate@kidstodayonline.com Jason Blalock ............. 336.605.1052 • jblalock@furnituretoday.com Kara Dunlay .............. 336.605.1022 • kdunlay@furnituretoday.com Susan Jones................ 336.605.1023 • sjones@furnituretoday.com Robin Martinez ........ 336.605.1024 • rmartinez@furnituretoday.com
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CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED THEY’RE LOOKING FOR YOU Home Furnishings Buyers
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KAREN HANCOCK: khancock@sandowmedia.com ph 336.605.1047 fax 336.605.1143
SUBSCRIBE Home Textiles Today is the fashion and business source home textiles industry executives turn to every
Z Gallerie, a home furnishings lifestyle retailer operating 50+ locations across the US has immediate opportunity for a Tabletop Buyer AND a Home Textile Buyer. Our merchants’ goal is to furnish our customers with exclusive, stylish and accessible products in an inspirational store environment. Position is located at our Berkeley, CA offices. Buyer(s) will develop Z Gallerie exclusive products, source them globally andmanage the products through their life cycle. Ideal candidate(s) will have solid experience in both developing business strategies and managing OTB through monthly financial reviews. Must be creative and have in-depth knowledge of merchandising and design trends. Buyer(s) will work closely with Planner(s) to spend OTB most efficiently and profitably. Buyer(s) must have strong collaboration and team building skills, excellent communication & negotiation skills, as well as, the ability to balance strategic thinking and attention to detail to be successful in this position. Must have superior leadership skills, enthusiasm, initiative, passion for results, be flexible and have an entrepreneurial spirit balanced with strong analytical and decision-making skills. All candidates should enjoy a fast paced, collaborative and entrepreneurial environment with excellent skills in communication, retail math, Word and Excel. Bachelor’s degree required, as well as, two or more years of previous buying experience, preferably in the Home Furnishings area. Please forward resumes with salary history and requirements to bbo@zgallerie.com. Please visit us at www.zgallerie.com. No Phone Calls Please
PEKING LINEN INC
week to learn the latest developments bound to affect their businesses. Go to: hometextilestoday.com
and subscribe today!
Stylemaster® importer of curtains, valances, bedspreads, and furniture throws looking for order entry processor with EDI experience. Please email resume to ethelromano@bellemaisonusa.com
Home textiles distributor directly supported by its factory in China, seeks: Sales with established accounts in home fashions, and Designers experienced in home fashions. Please send resumes to:
info@pekinglinen.com Or call: 201-293-4418
One of the most successful online home textile brands in China, Racy’s Home, is seeking cooperative opportunities with home textile studios or designers from Europe and the U.S. • Do you want to show your face on the biggest B to C website in Asia? • Do you want to share your designs and ideas with the most popularity and with more than 10 million from the most exciting market of the world? • The candidate who is interested in this co-operation should have a minimum of 5 years experience in design and/or art or a related field. Candidates will be asked to show their pictures and comments on their own designs to our consumers. • We will introduce your designs together to millions of our consumers in China. • We will offer market prices for your artwork if chosen by our product team.
If you are interested, please forward your studio profile or personal resume to:
info@shanghaibroadway.com
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 Home Textile + Fashion Handbag/Accessories Company Hiring Sales Persons VHC, Inc. is a multi-line home textile and handbag design, import, and distribution company seeking full time, salary + commission sales persons to engage larger accounts within the US. Offices in Missouri and New Delhi, with branded and private label/custom programs. Major lines include patchwork bedding, window treatment, table textiles, wovens, braided rugs, and Bella Taylor handbags. Min. 5 years selling experience in the wholesale home textile and/or fashion import/distribution industry. Email inquiries/resumes only to: kkline@victorianheart.com
SALES PROFESSIONALS WANTED Commission based Sales Rep needed for promotionally priced Home Textile Importer. USA Warehouse, 20 years in business. Excellent reputation. Only those with real Home textile experience need apply. All territories available. E-mail resume to Andy@pamarketing.net or fax to 516-621-9125
SALES REPS WANTED Stylemaster®-importer of curtains, valances, bedspreads, and furniture throws with a stocking warehouse in CT. Seeking well-connected reps. Many customers still available. E-mail resume jromano@stylemasterusa.com
Sales Reps Wanted One of the largest micro-fiber bedding products manufactory is seeking highly motivated commission based sales agents to expand our market nationwide. The candidates should have a history of positive relationships with clients. Email resume peter@sylcomenterprises.com
www.hometextilestoday.com . www.hometextilestoday.com .
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Home Textiles Today
September 3, 2012
News 360 Park Avenue South, New York, N.Y. 10010 Tel: (646) 805-0227; Fax: (646) 365-2307
NRF Seeks Negotiations for Coastal Longshoremen to Avoid Holiday Disruptions WASHINGTON — The National Retail Federation last week urged labor and management to return to the table in negotiations for a new East Coast and Gulf Coast longshoremen’s contract, arguing that retailers heading into the crucial holiday season will be forced to divert cargo elsewhere in a matter of days. “We understand and recognize that there are tough issues that need to be resolved,” said Matthew Shaw, president and ceo. “The issue will only be resolved, however, by agreeing to stay at the negotiating table until a final deal is reached. Failure to reach agreement will lead to supply chain disruptions which could seriously harm the U.S. economy.” He added that the industry is “fac-
ing a critical time,” noting that some retailers have already enacted contingency plans to ensure that holiday merchandise will reach store shelves in time. “Now that there is a real risk of disruption, most retailers using the East and Gulf Coast ports will be forced to executive contingency plans within the next week to meet in-store holiday deadlines. These plans carry great expense but they are necessary to avoid disruptions that will add costly delays to our members’ supply chains.” Shay’s comments came in a letter sent yesterday to International Longshoremen’s Association president, Harold Daggett, and United States Maritime Alliance chairman and ceo, James Capo. The two parties were scheduled
to hold three days of negotiations last week to replace the contract that expires Spet. 30, but the ILA walked away on Wednesday over USMX’s insistence to negotiate on terminal efficiency improvements. Shay said lack of a contract could drive shippers away from East and Gulf Coast ports in the same way that a 2002 West Coast ports lockout caused shipping to shift in their favor. “Having a secure, long-term longshore labor contract in place is critical to ensure that the East and Gulf Coast ports continue to benefit from growing labor volumes,” Shay said. “Without such certainty, retailers and others will surely reevaluate their supply chains and the short-term and longterm reliance on these ports.” HTT
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 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
Oriental Weavers to Celebrate New NYC Showroom D ALTON , G A . — Oriental Weavers will host a Take a Bite out of the Big Apple themed grand opening party for its new showroom at the New York Home Fashions Market on Sept. 10, from 4-7 p.m. The rug company’s new showroom is almost double the size of its previous space and is located on the sev-
enth floor of the 295 5th Avenue Textile Building, suite 719. To celebrate opening the more than 10,000-square-foot showroom, Oriental Weavers will give away iPads, iTouchs, and other Apple products every 30 minutes during the party and will serve signature Big Appletinis, cocktails, wine and heavy hors d’oeuvres.
The company will also serve lunch daily during the market as well as wine and cheese each evening beginning at 4 p.m. Oriental Weavers will show machine-woven, printed and handcrafted accent and area rugs, broadloom, Axminster, rug pad and all its other product during the show. HTT
Peking
“We’re gotten a chunk of the window business,” said Grand. “The branding activity has been aimed at addressing a level of fashion we had not been known for.” As was the case during the spring market, Peking will highlight its better bedding goods — “and it’s even more luxurious,” said Carol Antone, vp of creative. The new collection features high thread counts, Egyptian cotton and
high-quality jacquards, she said. In addition, Peking is reintroducing its fashion quilt assortment based on lifestyle: Modern/Zen, Global/BoHo and MidCentury-inspired. Peking will also feature true standalone decorative pillows during the market. “We’ve been doing so well with Trina Turk that we feel we’ve gotten to go-ahead to be bold and brave,” said Antone. HTT
“fast track” status for the patent request MindsInSync filed for its memory foam mats. Last month, Germany granted a patent for the much-copied product, which also has earned Utility Model and Innovation patents in China and Australia. “Our company was founded on innovation, and our efforts to protect our proprietary materials and process-
es mark our determination to continue to lead the market with original solutions that bring something new to the consumer’s life,” said Paul Cuthbertson, chief operating officer of MindsInSync. The company, which distributes product in 38 countries, has patent applications pending in other jurisdictions. HTT
PEKING FROM PAGE 1
Mary Jane’s Farm branded license. The company has also expanded the team at its Shanghai facility to support to basic bedding business. Chief operating officer Mark Grand said the new category is just part of Peking’s “expanded bandwidth” and the company’s ability to execute across multiple facets of the home.
MindsInSync MINDS FROM PAGE 1
told HTT. The differentiator for pursuing a product design, he added, “is that it should justify a patent application.” On that front, MindsInSync is making strides. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office recently granted
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