Monday, May 9, 2011
THE BUSINESS AND FASHION NEWSPAPER OF THE HOME TEXTILES INDUSTRY
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hometextilestoday.com
| Vol. 32, No. 12 | $8.00
Walmart: We’ll Be the Rug Companies Back on Last to Raise Prices Schedule After Storms NEW YORK — Retailers are continuing to spin upcoming price increases in their interactions with the investment community. Addressing a recent investor’s conference, Wal-Mart Stores Inc. president and ceo Mike Duke said the company “will be the last” retailer to raise prices. He called inflation “a top-of-mind topic,” and like many other retailers, said WalMart is working with suppliers to hold down prices. Many suppliers have told HTT that all retailers have been adjusting their pricing upward for several months as raw material prices have climbed — Walmart included. Duke invoked what has become a new mantra for Wal-
Mart — EDLC, or Every Day Low Cost — saying the company’s global sourcing arms is creating “innovative global business processes” to help hold the line on costs. Wal-Mart’s public posture is always worth watching since so many retailers look to it for a baseline as their tier their own pricing in comparison. Before the Q&A, Duke preventively address the subj e c t o f Wa l - M a r t ’ s s l u g gish comp store performance – to say he wouldn’t t alk about it in specifics.. “I won’t tell you at which point we will deliver positive store comps,” he said, adding they are the U.S. division’s greatest priority. “I do see traction.” HTT
BY CECILE CORRAL DALTON, GA. — It was back to business as usual for some of the major area, accent and bath rug companies in the Southeast by last Wednesday, one week since tornadoes and heavy storms struck the region. Since early morning on May 2, when power was restored at its Scottsboro, Ala. facilities, Maples Rugs “went back on our regular schedule,” said co-owner John Maples, ramping up production at 6 a.m. As of that day, the domestic rug manufacturer had about 85% of its staff in attendance, “and we expect that to increase as time goes by,” he continued. Among Maples Rugs’ staff, there were several workers who suffered partial or total loss of their homes, a few who suffered injuries, some who lost family members, and then some employees
Rug manufacturers escaped the worst of the storm.
who have not yet been located. The company was in the process of trying SEE STORMS PAGE 22
Calvin Klein Home Debuts at L&T
Key Retailers Record Positive Comps in April BY CECILE B. CORRAL N EW YORK — Despite regional storms that hit much harder than just the usual seasonal showers, April’s retail forecast brought sunny comp results for key retailers, as all 13 on HTT’s list reported positive same store sales. And they have the Easter holiday shift to thank for it. This year, Easter Sunday landed on
three weeks later than it had in 2010, causing holiday-related sales to shift from March to April. Framingham, Mass.-based TJMaxx’s April consolidated comparable store sales increased 5%, exceeding expectations and reflecting the timing of a later EasSEE SALES PAGE 19
Lord & Taylor’s flagship store in Manhattan celebrated the official opening of its Calvin Klein Home shop. From left: Bentley Hardwich, Amy Mellen and John Gidding.
Inside This Issue Calling Out Dubious Packaging Claims ...................................page 4 Cry Me a River .......................................page 4 Utility Bedding Steady; Braces for Consumer Reaction to Pricing ..............page 6 Surtex to Offer Design and Artwork Opportunities .................page 8
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Retail Briefs Sears Holding Projects 1Q Loss
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ears Holding said it expects to report a net loss for the first quarter of $145 million to $195 million. Consolidated same-store sales fell 3.6% for the quarter ended April 30, with comps off 5.2% at U.S. Sears stores and 1.6% at Kmart units. Comps at Sears Canada declined 9.2%. Appliances had the most notable same-store sales drop, the company said. The home department was among those that improved comp performance during the quarter.
May 9, 2011
News
Mohawk Earnings Rise C ALHOUN , G A . — Despite flat sales, efficiency gains at Mohawk Industries help drive up firstquarter earnings. The flooring manufacturer reported net earnings of $23 million, or 34 cents per share, up 9.5% from earnings of $21 million, or 30 cents per share.
HIGH POINT, N.C. — Bassett Fur-
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niture Inds. said last week that it has completed the sale of its stake in the International Home Furnishings Center, and confirmed that it will be a minority partner in a new entity that owns three major High Point showroom complexes and the World Market Center in Las Vegas. The company said the new owner, International Market Centers, L.P., now controls 10 million square feet of showroom space in the two cities, including the IHFC and the Market Square complex in High Point. Bassett said the total value of the sale of its 46% stake in the IHFC was $275 million, including the assumption of $100 million in debt. The remaining $175 million will be distributed in cash to the IHFC’s owners, and Bassett said it should realize a $74 million pre-tax distribution. In turn, Bassett said it invested
Urban Outfitters Brand President Exits
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tephen Murray has resigned as global president of the Urban Outfitters brand to join a wholesale business in London. Glen Senk, ceo of Urban Outfitters Inc., will take on Murray’s responsibilities while the company searches for a successor. The Urban Outfitters brand includes 176 Urban Outfitters stores in the United States, Canada, and Europe as well as catalogs and four web sites selling apparel, accessories and home.
Bloomies to Open Three More Outlets
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acy’s Inc. is building out its nascent Bloomingdale’s Outlet concept with the opening of three more stores this fall. The company launched the outlet division in fall 2010 with four initial sites. In September, an outlet will open at Miromar Outlets in Estero, Fla. In October, outlets will open at Wrentham Village Premium Outlets in Wrentham, Mass., and Woodfield Village Green in Schaumburg, Ill.
Gilt Groupe Expands Home via Decorati Acquisition
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s part of its ongoing strategy to expand and broaden its home business, online membership retailer Gilt Groupe has acquired upscale interior home décor site Decorati. The terms of the deal were not disclosed. Gilt Groupe described Decorati as a destination site for high-end interior design products and services as well as a community for the display of designer portfolios, as well as a resource that enables interior design professionals to efficiently manage their projects and promote their businesses.
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Sales were $1.34 million for the quarter ended April 2. Chairman and ceo Jeffrey Lorberbaum said the outlook for the balance of the year is looking up. “In the U.S., both remodeling and home sales are expected to improve over last year, and
non-residential investment is estimated to increase over 8% in 2011,” he said. The company said residential order trends flipped into positive territory late in the first quarter and remained positive in April. The commercial and hospitality business are also rebounding. HTT
IHFC Owners Complete $275 Million Sale of High Point Complex
Wal-Mart Acquires Social Media Co. al-Mart Stores has signed an agreement to acquire Kosmix, a social media technology platform that filters and organizes content in social networks. The Kosmix team will operate as part of a newly formed Wal-Mart division dubbed @WalmartLabs, based in Silicon Valley. @WalmartLabs “will create technologies and businesses around social and mobile commerce that will support Walmart’s global multichannel strategy, which integrates the shopping experience between bricks and mortar stores and e-commerce,” the retailer said in a statement.
> hometextilestoday.com
$2.4 million in exchange for a minority stake in IMC. The majority owners of IMC are the investment firms of Bain Capital and Oaktree Capital Management. Joining Bassett as minority investors are the Related Companies, one of the original backers of the World Market Center, and an entity called Network World Market Center, which is headed by WMC founders Jack Kashani and Shawn Samson. “This transaction represents a successful conclusion to (our original) investment and is a testimony to the sound management practices employed by the IHFC leadership and its associates, especially in a difficult period for the home furnishings industry,” said Rob Spilman Jr., Bassett’s president and CEO. “Despite the fact that most of its competitors were in financial disarray, the IHFC has remained profitable throughout the reces-
sion.” “On behalf of Bassett and its partners, I thank current and former IHFC management and associates for a job well done. I feel confident that as part of the newly formed International Market Centers, L.P. that the IHFC will carry on its longstanding tradition as the world’s most successful home furnishings wholesale showroom entity,” he added. The company said it will use some of the IHFC proceeds to pay down debt and settle selected lease obligations from shuttered Bassett Furniture Direct retail stores. The company also said it plans to invest in two to three new stores during the next several months. In addition, Bassett’s board of directors has reinstated a cash dividend and approved a share repurchase program that could cost up to $23.3 million. HTT
Exhibitors Focus on Function and Fashion at Window Coverings Expo L A S V E G A S — At the recent
International Window Coverings Expo most exhibitors agreed rods and finials now are expected to serve not only function but fashion. Showing for the first time at this show, Xentric Drapery Hardware, San Fernando, Calif.., owners Carlos and Erika Luna Contreras presented a handcrafted collection of hand-forged wrought iron, glass and wood finials, tiebacks, brackets, rings, batons and rod styles that can be customized to meet new, repurposed and matched window hardware installations .
Their new line of motorized traverse systems follow the matching design assortment of styles in the colors, finishes, shapes of their finials, tiebacks, brackets to assure to accentuate and enhance each window with all rods available in round, square hollow styles, they emphasized. A new Finestra collection of button embellishments, button borders and decorative tassels was introduced by Rowley Decorating Supplies & More, Gastonia, N.C. These sew-on and pin-on custom-carved buttons can also be used for drap-
ery panels, valances and pillows, according to Amy Weavil Johnson, vice president. Available in seven stock designs — swirl, flower, blossom, starburst, circa, acanthus, royal — and three color choicesantique gold, old world, pewter — they also have options of molded sew-on eye or pin-on clasp styles. Button can be augmented with matching custommade/hand-painted borders in neo-classical, beaded or old world gold finish. Rowley also introduced its Finestra Aria metal decorative SEE WINDOW PAGE 20
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cornerstone of the home textile market Best Building. Best Rent. Best Tenants. That’s why industry leaders such as Mohawk, Glenoit, Shaw, Oriental Weavers, Welspun, Home Dynamix, Gertmanian, YMF Carpets, Achim Importing, KAS Rugs, Carpet Enterprises, Natco Products, Town & Country Living and Ruia Home make 295 Fifth their home. Make it yours, and you can enjoy these advantages: • More actual square footage for your rental $. 295 Fifth has the lowest loss factor in the home textile showroom market.* Compare our space measurements and you’ll see how you’re paying much less for actual square footage at 295. • The most Market Week traffic. 295 Fifth is the only building to rent exclusively to the home textiles, tabletop and gift industries for showrooms. And we have more than double the number of showrooms than any other building. • Free freight service and more freight cars running full-time, including weekends prior to each Market Week. • State-of-the-art security and 15 daytime employees—twice the staff of any comparable building to keep the building spotless and well-serviced.
Be part of the best for less! Call Lou Lombardi at 212-685-0530. LOU LOMBARDI, President MANHATTAN PROPERTIES COMPANY Owner/Management *according to official REBNY guidelines
295 FIFTH AVENUE • NEW YORK, NY 10016 • 212-685-0530 • ceo295@aol.com
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Home Textiles Today
Month XX, 2011
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OPINIONTodaY Calling Out Dubious Packaging Claims “More commonly known as polyester, micro fiber does not have a ‘thread count’ as the term is commonly applied in the manufacture of cotton and cotton blend sheets.”
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e received a lot of thumbs up recently this is the first I’ve heard of it. for an item in our HTT Extra enewsletter Another nudge-nudge, wink-wink claim comes from calling out some of the sheRestoration Hardware, which this spring pronanigans entering the marmoted a line of “Vintage Washed Belgian ketplace as retailers attempt to gussy up the Linen Bedding,” which packaging reveals to marketing on de-speced product. have been made in India. The Belgian claim Culprit No. 1 was Amazon, offering a EDITOR-IN-CHIEF is made because the threads were “made from polyester sheet set it labeled as “Egyptian Belgian flax seeds.” Quality 1200 Count Luxury Solid Sheet After we sent out the HTT Extra piece, I Set.” The price: $27. The product descripheard right away from a couple of readers with tion identifies the construction as “100% other examples. While they are not home texEgyptian Quality micro fiber.” tiles examples, both exemplify hijinks not unMore commonly known as polyester, familiar to the industry — questionable susmicro fiber does not have a “thread count” tainability claims and “hide the feathers” fill as the term is commonly applied in the manclaims. ufacture of cotton and cotton blend sheets. But the real The first touches on organic cotton claims — in this lulu is the “Egyptian Quality” claim. Yes, there is some case, a $12.99 tee-shirt on promotion at Stein Mart for poly manufacturing in Egypt, but if Egyptian poly sets Earth Day. The marketing copy states: “Tees are made a world standard (as long-staple Egyptian cotton does) from organic cotton, which is 90% less toxic than a con-
Jennifer Marks
ventional cotton garment.” Our tipster, a professor at a well-known textiles university, noted: “You have to ask, if organic is 90% less toxic, then the non-organic shirt is TOXIC. The implication is that both shirts are toxic. And the big question is: Toxic to what and what test did they run to show a shirt is toxic?” The other tsk-tsk example came from a member of the Downmark, the Down Association of Canada. “On the front page of our website at www.downmark. com, we list fraudulent product we have picked up in the Canadian market, and had tested at the International Down & Feather Laboratory in Salt Lake City. “We have had serious failures by Home Outfitters, Wal-Mart, and numerous smaller retailers. Latest is a retest of a Jysk down duvet, which tested at 18% down. Previously one of theirs had failed at 57%, so they are getting worse.” More to come, no doubt. HTT
Cry Me a River “Amazon is sailing the right course. Too many other businesses are up the wrong river: Denial. “
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OOR DUMB OLD A M A ZON: All they do is the early days of online businesses, Amazon was losing keep investing in the company and not worry- a fortune while other comparable business were losing ing so much about short-term quarterly results. far less or even making a few bucks. Bezos, then as now, What’s the matter with them? kept saying Amazon needed to build its infraIn reporting its numbers a couple of week Warren structure and invest in itself in order to create ago, the giant online retailer announced the kind of company required to sustain itself a 33% drop in its profits, even as revenue Shoulberg for the long run. PUBLISHER/ jumped by 38%. The reason for the decline Wall Street, then as now, kept punishing the EDITORIAL DIRECTOR company. on the bottom line was a huge increase — 42% — in operating expenses. We all pretty much know how this turned But it wasn’t ceo Jeff Bezos going out and out: Amazon became one of the greatest sucbuying himself a new jet or redecorating the cess stories on the web and most of its contemexecutive dining room with mink-covered poraries from that first wave of online commerce chairs and solid gold dishes. hysteria are long since gone. Anyone remember Dumb old Amazon was using the money eToys, Webvan or Pets.com? on really stupid things: building more fulThe short-term attention span of the investfillment centers, investing in expanded data centers and ment community is nothing new. They have been fohiring more people to help run a company that has been cused on the next 90 days pretty much since the stock growing so quickly. market was created. Even worse, they have usually been Of course, Wall Street and the investment commu- even more focused on the past 90 days. nity saw all of this as sheer folly and immediately startCompanies like Amazon have managed to avoid the ing beating up the stock and talking trash about Ama- fear and loathing that emanates from all these guys in zon. Bezos’ reaction? Don’t bother me. suits by building a great business. But they are not the If all of this sounds familiar, it should. Way back in only ones.
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Bed Bath & Beyond stopped giving monthly comp store sales and much quarterly guidance years ago, and they have endured because they have built a solid business. Contrast that with a retailer like Sears Holding, which offered up a lame list of excuses for its most recent performance without any clear cut explanation of how its short-term actions were going to pay off in the long term. Most of the companies in the home textiles industry are privately owned and so they don’t have to answer to shareholders every three months. But an awful lot of firms in the business are controlled by private equity investors, and while the process is not as public, we can’t imagine that the performance priorities are any different. Most investment guys have even shorter attention spans than public shareholders, and they want to see the money right away. Patience is not their strong suit. But the public retailers who sell home products can take a lesson from the Amazon playbook. The old cliché about Rome not being built in a day can be applied to businesses not being built in a quarter. Companies need to better understand their priorities. Amazon is sailing the right course. Too many other businesses are up the wrong river: Denial. HTT
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© GLM 2011
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New York International Gift Fair A U G U S T 1 3 – 1 8 , 2 0 11 l PIERS 92 & 94, NYC
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Parisian Tapestry Pillows imported by TABULA TUA
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Home Textiles Today
May 9, 2011
Facts
> hometextilestoday.com
Utility Bedding Steady; Braces for Consumer Reaction to Pricing in attempt to maintain costing without degrading the product. The key is to offer the consumer a true solution at whatever price point is on the floor,” he added. According to Altbaier, growth in its department store and catalog business remained primarily in the private label area, while brands continued to drive growth with wholesale club, box and off-price accounts. “The price increases have definitely caused us to re-examine our value proposition at each key price point,” said Scott Maddalene, senior vp, sales, Berkshire Blanket, Inc. “We always have paid a lot of attention to marketing in the form of packaging and presentation at point of sale but that effort is being intensified as we explore new price points.” According to the numbers, within the utility bedding category, pillows, blankets and throws showed small increases, while mattress pad sales continued to be flat. At retail, the direct to consumer sector made the most strides, up 5.6% from the previous year. These results point to the growing power
BY JILL ROWEN NEW YORK — Despite the prob-
lems of rising raw material prices (and rising everything else), retail sales in the utility bedding category held steady year to year. The utility bedding category ended 2010 at $1.995 billion dollars, up .08% from $1.980 billion in 2009. Now, everyone is holding their collective breath as goods with higher retails – and in many cases, lower specs – begin to hit store shelves. For vendors, the typical business buzz words of value, performance and specs are weighing more heavily on the industry. “We are const antly challenged to design and build products with the most ‘value,’ said Chad Altbaier, vp sales and marketing, Downlite. “Although retailers have taken cost and price increases for fall 2011 and spring 2012, in many instances this is also being done in tandem with product and/or packaging changes in order to maintain costing. “Specification tweaks are conversations that we have regularly with our retail partners
Utility Bedding Distribution Channels
($millions)
2010 total retail sales: $1.99 billion up 0.8% from $1.98 billion in 2009 2010
Discount department stores $1,181.0 Home textiles specialty chains 393.0 Mid-price chains 161.6 Department stores 83.8 Direct-to-consumer 43.9 Warehouse clubs 37.9 Single-unit home textiles specialty stores 29.9 Off-price chains 21.9 Variety/closeout 23.9 Other 18.0 Total 1,995.0
2009
% CHANGE
1,170.2 388.1 164.3 85.1 41.6 37.6
0.9% 1.3% -1.7% -1.6% 5.6% 0.8%
29.7 21.8 23.8 17.8 1,980.0
0.8% 0.8% 0.8% 0.8% 0.8%
* Other includes home improvement centers, military exchanges and gift/home accent stores.
Merchandise Mix Sleep Pillows Blankets Throws Mattress pads
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($millions) 2010
2009
% CHANGE
$740.1 496.8 393.0 365.1
$730.6 491.0 390.1 368.3
1.3% 1.2% 0.8% -0.9%
of internet retailers as well as the trend toward choosing the online option even for the existing brick-and-mortar stores. Not surprisingly, discounters, off-prices and close-out stores marked small increases in a still difficult economy. In the pillow category particularly, the plethora of performance products bring a new level of challenge to vendors in
“The price increases have definitely caused us to reexamine our value proposition at each key price point.” —SCOTT MADDALENE, Berkshire Blanket, Inc
developing product as they work to differentiate themselves. “The performance consumer will always pay a little more to get what they need; the pricesensitive consumer may be a little more cautious,” said Steven Romero, vp, marketing, Sinomax. “We have had to look at how to re-spec product, especially in the opening price points: developing new foam with lower density, for instance, but delivering the same performance and quality.” Romero noted that Simonax has been careful in keeping increases no higher than 10% to avoid giving consumers sticker shock. Dan Schecter, vp, sales and marketing, Carpenter, noted that performance and function continue to be the cornerstone of its approach. “Our value-add business was not impacted severely, and our high-end and value-add branded Sleep Better products sold and sold well. The mid-priced product struggled. Products that do ‘things’ for people did well, i.e., IsoCool, Isotonic and Perfect Harmony,” he said. At Hudson Industries, utility bedding is therapeutically influenced, “which I am happy to report has witnessed a nice resurgence in the last year and year to date,” said Lonnie Scheps, svp. He added: “Brand-
ing, we believe, runs a distant second to performance and efficacy, and the customer is definitely voting that way.” More and more are voting that way through online choices. According to Scheps “ In our arena of therapeutics, the sector getting the most attention is, of course, the Internet as many, many consumers are researching their purchase prior to shopping at the brickand-mortar location. And if they are pleased, they may even see it and then go back to their PC to click away.” In addition, the Internet is becoming a great motivator. “Seeing other consumer comments, comparing prices, comparing shipping charges comparing products and attributes — all these advantages and total transparency make the ‘net’ nothing less than enormously influential in many buying decisions,” said Scheps. Whether in-store or online, vendors all await the reactions of consumers as they see rising retail prices. They are also working on getting their marketing message out more forcefully to capture that consumer. “I think the days of a consumer buying on impulse will be gone for a while,” noted Joe Mauer, vp sales, M & Z Marketing. According to Mauer, “pillows with a purpose” — everything from helping with sleep apnea, snoring and back pain
— is key to finding consumers in untapped markets. “Our goal is always to create value in our product, but to also speak plainly on our packaging and as graphically as possible,” noted Chris Ernst, vp, Sleep Studio. “We are really making an effort to tell consumers not only what we are doing, but also telling them clearly why it can help them.” “Consumer reaction to hikes when they see them everywhere tends to reduce their negative influence. Like gas at the pumps, we still will pay the going price, but perhaps do more comparing and sometimes maybe drive less or buy somewhat less. We are still finding the jury out on this issue,” said Scheps. “Just like you and me they are buying what they need and only when they need it. The biggest change I see is that the consumer is not augmenting their incomes with credit so a major purchase is just that, said Schecter. “Marketing is very important but more important that catchy words and colorful packaging is meeting and exceeding consumer expectation. If they buy something that disappoints it goes right back to the store,” he added. “We have to make products that do what they say they will do. If not — not only do you lose a sale but you lose a customer.” HTT
METHODOLOGY In determining product category sales figures as well as determining retail sales for those categories by channel of distribution, the editors and research department of Home Textiles Today used data compiled from a variety of sources, including publicly filed financial reports, vendor sales information compiled by the editors, and information provided by retailers and home fashions suppliers. Home Textiles Today is producing a three-part series on bedding — this report being the second — breaking the overall bedding category into three of its component parts: Top of The Bed; Utility Bedding, Blankets and Throws; and Sheets & Pillowcases. The research was compiled by: editorial contributor Jill Rowen; Dana French, director of market research; and Jennifer Marks, editor-in-chief.
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Home Textiles Today
May 9, 2011
News
> hometextilestoday.com
Surtex to Offer Design and Artwork Opportunities for Home Textiles Companies BY CECILE B. CORRAL NEW YORK — Among the host of exhibitors partaking in
the upcoming original artwork and design market Surtex later this month is a growing collection of companies looking for partners to help them expand more aggressively into the soft home business. Set for May 15 to 17 at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, this year’s annual event is celebrating its silver anniversary and with it, Surtex’s long history and role within the home fashions industry. “In its 25-year history, Surtex has played a major role in the success of consumer product sales, particularly home fashions, by bringing the world’s greatest creative talent to American marketers, manufacturers and retailers for their product development needs,” said Penny Sikalis, vp/show manager. She added that the coming event is expected “to set design and color direction for 2012” through the 300 exhibiting companies – including artists, designers, licensors, and agents. Also commemorating Surtex’s special anniversary is a “Design Forum,” which will include many members of the home industry in its panel, Sikalis noted. Dubbed “America Embraces Design…Finally,” it will be spearheaded by Revman International’s president and ceo, Richard Roman, who will talk about “the powerful impact of design on the home market.” Other panelists will include: Tom Mirabile, svp, of Global Trend and Design for Lifetime Brands Inc.; Lynn Shanahan, ceo of the C2Group and current acting president of Marimekko, North America; and Michelle Ishay-Cohen, executive art director of Abrams, publishers of design books about the home. Here is a sampling of some other Surtex exhibitors bringing new artwork and design offerings designed for the home textiles industry to the market.
Dena Designs Inc., Lafayette, Calif. – Booth 521 Designer Dena Fishbein has long been working within the soft home business. Building on that success, she is coming to Surtex with several new opportunities for textiles suppliers with her latest design additions to her juvenile “happi” program and her long-standing “Dena Home” collection. “We are focusing on home textiles this market,” she told HTT. “People are looking for something with fresh modernity to it, and I try to make my designs feel really comfortable and homey and warm but with a modern feel.”
Design Works International, New York – Booth 120, 124 Nancy Fire, creative director and founder, described her home business as “definitely without a doubt one of our specialties. And we are looking to partner with manufacturers for licensing at Surtex.” Among the company’s latest batch of new offerings: embroideries for decorative pillows and bedding, textiles designs for bedding, hand-painted designs for seasonal table lines, “the list goes on and on,” Fire added.
European Textile Collection & ETC Vintage, Los Angeles – Booth 158 After being away for the past six years, the company is coming back to Surtex again at their customers’ many requests. Fabrizzia Perri, sales manager, will attend Surtex to
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Gina Freehill & Blu Aura Design Inc., Patrick Reid O’Brien
present the company’s latest offering of original works and designs. These will include: “a lot of watercolor, animal skins, feathers, novelties, botanical-etched florals, paisleys, ikats, anything ethnic – those would be big ones. And the vintage side of our company will also be showing some older designs from before the 1980s,” she said Holiday-themed original artwork will also be part of the mix The home business, which includes textiles, represents about 30% of the company’s total business.
Gina Freehill & Blu Aura Design Inc., Bartlett Ill. – Booth 462 Soft home is one area this company is hoping to expand into, owner Gina Freehill said. To accomplish this, she is bringing two new special collections targeting home categories. Rhapcity, for the younger shopper, is inspired by city living and metropolitan lifestyles, featuring modern lines and palettes with fashion elements and urban vignettes, she said. Rose Deco is for more of a traditional customer but gives an updated flair to classic florals to appeal to a broader customer. High contrast palettes and tonal interpretations make this design collection suitable for bedroom decor, Freehill noted.
MHS Licensing, Minneapolis – Booth 435, 437 The company is spotlighting three new artists — Christine Adolph, Patrick Reid O’Brien and Collin Bogle — all of whom create original artwork that can be licensed and translated easily on home textiles products. Adolph is well-established in the scrap-booking world, O’Brien is known for coastal looks, and Bogle paints realistic wildlife paitings. “We plan to meet with more than 1 0 0 m a nu f a c t u r ers, some of them in home textiles, to get discussions going,” explained Marty Segelbaum, M H S ’s p r e s i d e n t and owner. “Home textiles is a big catChristine Adolph egory for us.”
Pink Light Design, Seattle — Booth 317, 416 Mary Beth Freet, the designer, agent and creative director, said the company represents12 artists and licenses designs to manufacturers in different categories, “and we’d love to get into home.” Pink Light already has some soft home partners, but is looking to expand into more such relationships. “We have hundreds of pieces. I would say that anyone in the home industry should stop by and take a look at our variety,” which includes mostly graphic illustrations, “but we do have a few watercolor artists and we also have a lot of great designs that work well on fabrics for bedding and pillows,” Freet noted. Known for its contemporary slant on design, Pink Light also offers custom work.
Tana Bana Design Services, Morristown, N.J. – Booth 115, 117 “Our focus is home,” said Susan Ritchie, partner. For Surtex, Tana Bana’s design direction will largely be toward “traditional patterns with an updated twist — some kind of new technique or hand drawn effect that makes it more contemporary,” Ritchie said. Examples of this include, she cited, “traditional damasks that might be executed in a different kind of technique like a sketched look, or a texture overlay for a contemporary feel.” Tana Bana will also be showing “a bunch” of ethnic looks, including paisleys and ikats. “When I work, my focus is pattern as an element within a living space, and I make sure that it goes well with the other aspects of that space and that is gives a calming, soothing effect,” added Shreenie Vasan, partner.
Textile Creations by Lily Inc., New York – Booth 130 This company outright sells — rather than licenses — its design documents and designs, and is bringing to market several new offerings that president Lily Serrano said target home goods. With home representing about 60% of its total business, Textile Creations by Lily is bringing to Surtex a large collection of French late 1800s textiles and paintings as well as some American pieces from the 1930s up through the 1970s, “which have become really important in home.” Serrano added that the vintage theme overall “has become very, very important in home. She added that “toiles are coming back, and it’s time for them to come back.” HTT
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First Monday: Specialty Retailing
Lucca’s Poulter Unveils Kiska Textiles to Wholesalers in Canada and United States TORONTO — It took Beth Poul-
ter many years to realize that all along, she had in her possession the perfect recipe for making her dreams of developing her own collection of home textiles for the wholesale market come true. Poulter, who for the past 12 years has owned and operated a luxury linens store here — Lucca Home — has for years been amassing a personal cache of antique Japanese textiles, including one special silk that had long been forgotten. She also maintains a stash of her own sketches, along with with a love of Eastern and Impressionist fine arts, that all together sparked her to create her own patterns for a new collection of fabrics and fin-
Poulter’s store displays a colorful stack of duvets that represents a sampling of her Kiska collection.
ished home textiles. Now, two years since coming into fruition, Poulter’s Kiska Textiles line is marking two major milestones — it is establishing its first wholesale business, and within that effort Kiska is making its first move across the border into the U.S. market. “It took me years and years and years of doodling and scribbling, and finally two years ago I started printing, and now it’s finally taking off,” Poulter said. “It has been really well-received. I only started trying to wholesale the line at the beginning of the year, and after appointments with stores in Montreal and in Kingston, they all took it. It’s really something.”
Kiska has been in development and available to customers on Lucca’s store shelves since summer 2009. Then in summer 2010, the second collection was released, followed in October by another highlight. “When the Dalai Lama came to Toronto last fall, his bed was made in my textiles,” Poulter gushed. This past January, Poulter partnered with three Canadian linens boutiques — two in Montreal and one in Kingston — and soon after aligned with longtime high-end home linens designer Nancy Koltes to feature Kiska at her Beverly Hills, Calif.-based studio and retail store. “[Kiska] is delightful, refresh-
ing, has a younger look, is bright, colorful and cheerful,” Koltes told HTT. “It is a great addition to my assortment and very different from what I have. [Beth] and I have worked together many years, so it’s nice to now go in each direction.” Koltes said she first saw Poulter’s new prints during a visit to Lucca last fall. “I just loved them, so I took pictures and had samples sent to the store and we went from there.” Aside from a different style offering from her own more formal upscale looks, Koltes said Kiska represents for her store a new and untapped market and price level — essentially a midrange ticket for a younger aspirational shopper.
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“Beth’s prints make a very bold statement and they come at the right price that is for a younger audience who loves color and is seeking an opportunity to have a nice bedding ensemble at a decent price point,” Koltes explained. Poulter’s background is in Asian arts. Originally from Vancouver, she spent six years living and working in Japan at the onset of her career. “That is where I developed my love of pattern and textiles,” she said. “I wrote a lot of papers drawing parallels between French and Japanese art, and in some unconscious way it has affected the way I create and churn stuff.” While in Japan, Poulter also started collecting old Japanese woodblock prints — another source of inspiration for her. “There is a lot of patterning and layering in those. And that is really where a lot of this has in some way morphed into my own patterns on textiles,” she explained. She returned to Canada 17 years ago, making a new home in Toronto. Within five years, she opened Lucca, which offers upscale bedding, bath and home textiles accessories linens in many designer brands — Nancy Koltes, Sferra Bros., SDH, Leitner, Home Treasures, N.C. Souther, John Robshaw, The Purists, Jonatex, and St. Geneve, as well as accessories from a number of other designers in North America and Europe. Poulter’s business was humming along, but her assortment was lacking a personal touch. “About five years into it [the store], I got to thinking that I needed to design my own line. So I started digging through my old scraps and doodles and fabrics and started thinking of patterns,” she explained. “There were some old Japanese silks that I forgot I had, and I was looking at how I could reinterpret them into home textiles. I really didn’t want an obvious mix, and that is what I like about my collection now. I don’t like the bed-in-a-bag approach. You can take four of my patterns and they don’t necessarily go together, but the more you combine them up the more they work.” Poulter said block-printing quality “is really about taking a one-dimensional product like a painting” but then using the Japanese wood-blocking technique of layering in patterns and colors “on one another to turn them into three dimensional pieces of art. There is a lot of depth to their work, and it is all about the layering. In creating Kiska, I think I have instinctively picked up on that through osmosis just by looking at them and loving them.” Kiska currently comprises upholstery fabrics and finished top of bed goods, all of which, she explained said, are blockprinted in two studios in India and then finished in Canada. She said the fabrics are shipped to her at Lucca and then the
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finished goods are sewn in Toronto. The fabrics are made in three different weights — a light-weight cambric for duvets, cases and shams and other bedding linens as well as drapery; and then two heavier weights for the upholstery fabrics and even some of the accessory pieces like decorative pillows, including a heavier cotton twill and a cotton flax blend “that has a real artisanal feel to it, and can be used for bedding, throw pillows and table lines,” Poulter noted. Top of bedding comprises the initial offering of Kiska Textiles. Table linens and sheeting, among other soft home textiles categories, will soon follow. Poulter includes her Kiska collection in her merchandise mix, giving it equal placing against the other nine designer brands she currently carries at Lucca. “I try to keep it all even,” she said. She said she stocks more Kiskabranded goods in inventory versus some of her other branded products. “I have to store it somewhere,” she explained, laughing. “My storage facility also operates as a showroom.” On display at Lucca are four bedding vignettes — one of them dedicated to Kiska and the other three which rotate among the other brands — as well as a cabinet that is stocked only with Kiskabranded fabrics “because my linen closet at home is already too full of fabrics.” Kiska also includes robes in its initial assortment. Pricewise, Kiska Textiles falls “midrange here in the store, filling a whole market I was missing.” Poulter explained that “not too many people are spending $1,000 on a duvet cover during this recession. So I’ve brought [Kiska Textiles] in at the right time. It was definitely the right move because I caught a new mid-range price level I didn’t have before.” Kiska duvet covers are set to retail in the United States starting at $350 twin, $395 queen, and $440 king. Upholstery Kiska fabrics by the yard fall at about $96 at retail. Kiska is also available to the trade as yard-goods at Primavera Interior Furnishings in Toronto. While Poulter is happy to have embarked on her first wholesale initiatives, she said her goals are only starting to be met. “I have 500 patterns in my pattern bank already. I just have to make sure I don’t do too much at once,” she said. “I plan to introduce new patterns every season, and my real goal is to take Kiska fully into wholesale to be able to pass along the business to my kids.” Her two daughters — ages 8 and 11 — are already getting their feet wet. “They sew little skirts for their [teddy] bears and paint watercolors to give me new patterns to work with,” she said, “or I ask them to paint them for me.” HTT
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Above: One of the brand’s more popular groupings includes the silver metallic “Butterflies” design in the back, the Excalibur gray in the back right, Suzani Vines in in the front left, and Suzani Flower in amethyst in the front. Below: The Black Blocks grouping addresses more monochromatic tastes with a design Poulter described as “Chanel meets Mata Hari.”
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News
> hometextilestoday.com
FIT Will Name First Carole Sloan Scholar in June NEW YORK —The Fashion Institute of Technoly’s Home Products Development Department said gifts to the the Carole Sloan Scholarship Fund, named for HTT’s late founding editor, have exceeded the $2500 needed to
award the scholarship this year. Stephen Pond, the entrepreneur who founded HTT and its sister publications, provided a gift of $50,000 in seed money to create the endowment. He has challenged the industry
to match his gift so the Carole Sloan Fund can reach its goal of at least $105,000. Contributions to the fund, which are tax deductible, can be made to “EFFI (Educational Foundation of the Fashion
Industries) On the check, note “Carole Sloan Scholar Fund” at FIT, 227 W 27th St. Room C204, New York, NY 10001. For additional information, contact Terry Culver, director of development at 212-217-4109. HTT
July 19 – 21, 2011 Javits Convention Center New York, NY
FIT Benefit Gala to Honor Belk Family Execs NEW YORK — The Fashion Insti-
tute of Technology’s annual benefit gala will honor Tim Belk Jr., chairman and ceo of 305-unit Belk department stores, and Johnny Belk, presdent and ceo. The gala will take place May 11 at Cipriani, 100 E. 42nd St., here. The cocktail recepton will begin at 6:30 p.m., with dinner at 7:30 p.m. The awards will be presented by Bruce Rockowitz, president, Li & Fung (Trading) Ltd. Entertainment will be provided by Joe Firstman and Mark Bryan from Hootie and the Blowfish. “Belk, Inc. represents the finest in family-owned companies, in this case three generations worth,” said FIT president Dr. Joyce Brown. For detailed information on purchasing tickets, contact Vicki Guranowski at 212-217-4105 or victoria_guranowski@fitnyc.edu. HTT
HomeTextilesSourcing.com/HHTT Register Online Now!
HFPA Plans Networking Cocktail Reception
The only sourcing event in North America solely focused on fabrics and finished soft goods for all home applications.
NEW YORK — The Home Fashion Products Association is inviting HFPA members and qualified home textiles professionals to attend a cocktail networking reception on June 23. The event will take place from 6-8 p.m. and is being hosted by HFPA president and Revman International ceo Rich Roman in his company’s showroom at 1211 Avenue of the Americas. Pre-registration is required, although there is no fee to attend. To register, contact Tina Cadet at (212) 297-2127 or email tcadet@kellencompany. com.
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Home Textiles Today
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News
Tuesday Morning Takes Preemptive Strike on Cotton Prices
DALLAS — Trying to delay the
inevitable increasing of prices on its cotton-made and home textiles merchandise, Tuesday Morning Corp. said it stocked up recently on inventory in these core categories — a strategy that the closeout chain said has proved successful. During its third quarter earnings conference call late last month, the 840-unit chain’s evp and cfo, Stephanie Bowman, said Tuesday Morning “took advantage of opportunistic buys” that became available in the second
quarter, and now “this inventory is selling through as we planned.” Added president and ceo, Kathleen Mason: “We invested excess cash in certain merchandise categories to hold pricing, primarily in cotton and textile categories” — which together account for more than one-third of Tuesday Morning’s business, she said. “Although we don’t have a true commodity business, this is as close as we get to a commodity item. And we feel very good
about that inventory, and we have definitely addressed any inventory that we believe needs price reduction,” she continued. Some of the product categories Mason cited included mattress pads, pillows, rugs, “and that kind of thing.” Proof that the pricing strategy was the right move is evident in Tuesday Morning’s recent textile product sales, which Mason described as “fairly good right now across the board. We are certainly pleased with where our textiles business is right now.” HTT
Surya Names Sullivan svp of Sales, National Accounts CALHOUN, GA. — Surya Inc. has
hired Paul Sullivan as the company’s new senior vp of sales/ national accounts. Sullivan brings more than 30 years of career experience to his new post at Surya, maker of area and accent rug and home furnishings. Most recently, he was with Anderson, S.C.-based Orian Rugs as its svp, sales and marketing. Satya Tiwari, president, said Sullivan is charged with devel-
oping a product line Additionally, Sulfor national accounts livan is responsible and building a team of for the development independent sales repand growth of Surya’s resentatives who spenational accounts in cialize within Surya’s the home accessories target market segdivision. ment. “It’s very exciting PAUL SULLIVAN “ W i t h S u l l i v a n ’s to be part of the Surya Surya appointment, Surya is team as they continue t aking a much more to build upon a very aggressive stance to penetrate successful platform within the the mass market channel,” said home accessory category,” said Tiwari. Sullivan. HTT
Boscov’s Names Vice Chairman R E A DING , PA . —
Boscov’s Department Store has named Jim Boscov vice chairman of the 39-store company. He started his career at Boscov’s in 1975 as an assistant store manager and has since held
PAUL SULLIVAN Surya
positions in store planning and construction, food service, optical, hearing centers, hair centers and store management. On the merchandising side, he was worked as buyer for home fashions, merchandise man-
ager of fragrances and cosmetics, He has also served as director of advertising. Albert Boscov, chairman and ceo of Boscov’s, said: “While I have no plans to retire, I want to assure our co-workers and business partners, that Boscov’s will remain Boscov’s for many years to come.” HTT
IFDA Trend Report Event to Review Recent Markets NEW YORK — The International
Furnishings and Designs Association’s Trend Report on May 11 event will be hosted by HTT’s publisher and editorial director, Warren Shoulberg. Shoulberg will offer an overview of the business and design trends on view at the recent markets and shows in New York, Atlanta, High Point and
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Las Vegas. The IFDA outlined some topics Shoulberg will address: • The broad direction of the design industry; • Trends in manufacturing overseas; • Changes in pricing; • The latest news on raw materials for the textiles business. The schedule starts at 8:30
a.m. with a continental breakfast, followed by the presentation and a question-and-answer session from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. The event will be held at the New York Design Center, 200 Lexington Avenue, near 33rd Street, on the ground floor in the Special Events room. To RSVP, send an email to: ifdanyny@verizon.net. HTT
> hometextilestoday.com
MindsInSync Expands Microdry in United Kingdom NEW YORK — MindsInSync, the global consumer goods company specializing in products for home and lifestyleis expanding and relocating its UK office, which will serve as the company’s European headquarters. The office is being helmed by new general manager Neil Dodds. “The company is developing a superb product range, designed to deliver affordable luxury for the home through a combination of innovation, quality and stylish
design,” said Dodds. MindsInSync will be showcasing its Microdry brand at the forthcoming Pulse London Show, a UK “best in class,” invitation-only home and retail fair showcasing innovative new products. Most Microdry products for home, bath, pet, kitchen and outdoor feature patent-pending materials and proprietary processes. MindsInSync also has offices in New York City, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Shenzhen. HTT
Carpenter Viral Video Wins Two Webby Awards R ICHMOND , VA . — Carpenter Co’s “2 Guys and 600 Pillows” video, created by “internetainers” Rhett & Link, has won two Webby Awards, a highly valued designation in the web world. The video was commissioned to help drive traffic to Carpenter’s consumer-oriented SleepBetter.org site, which to date has logged more than 150,000 clicks from the campaign. “We know that, in addition to whole new audiences being
entertained by the video, the Webby Awards will help us in our mission to inform more and more people about what’s inside old bedding and how that can affect getting a good night’s sleep,” said Dan Schecter, vp of consumer products at Carpenter Co. and creator of SleepBetter.org. The video can be viewed by going to YouTube, searching for “Rhett & Link” and clicking on “2 Guys and 600 Pillows.” HTT
UPS President Jack Holmes to Keynote Logistics Conference H IGH POINT, N.C. — Jack Holmes, president of UPS Freight, will be the kick-off speaker for “Logistics: The Critical Link to Supply Chain Excellence” on June 15 at AmericasMart in Atlanta. Sponsored by HTT sister publication Furniture/Today, the event will feature logistics experts from a variety of companies. Holmes’ keynote will be followed by a panel who will address the topic of ocean freight. Attendees will hear from Chad Rosenberg of American Global Logistics, Steve Wolfe of Stanley Furniture, Steve Burdette of Havertys Furniture and John Lomax of Furniture Brands International. Updates on the home deliv-
ery front will be addressed by Jim Waters of Home Depot, Patrick Cory of Cory Home Delivery, Keith Hewitt of Hep-Direct, Will O’Shea of 3PD and Ikea’s Talal Tadros. The impact of regulatory and legislative issues will be addressed by Michael Roll of Pisani & Roll LLP, a law firm specializing in U.S. Customs. To register online and take advantage of an early bird registration fee of $99 — good until May 16 — visit furnituretodayonline. com/conference/Logistics/2011/. After May 16, the standard registration rate of $189 will apply. For more information contact Heather Grant at (336) 605-1061 or email hgrant@sandowmedia. com. HTT
5/5/2011 2:36:36 PM
2011 LOGISTICS CONFERENCE
L
GISTICS: the critical link to supply chain excellence th Join us for this special one-day conference filled with expert speakers, panels and workshops devoted exclusively to retailers and manufacturers in the gifts and home furnishings industries.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15, 2011 AMERICASMART, ATLANTA, GA
99
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EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION Until May 16th
189
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STANDARD REGISTRATION After May 16th
8:30am-9:20am Check-In and Registration 9:20am-9:30am Opening Remarks Ray Allegrezza, Editor in Chief, Furniture/Today
9:30am-10:15am How the New Logistics Can Keep You Profitable In the New Normal Jack Holmes, President, UPS Freight With the economy still problematic, smart companies are tapping into new logistics solutions to help them navigate in today’s unpredictable waters. What are these new logistics solutions and how can you put them to work for you? Jack Holmes, President of UPS Freight, has the answers.
10:15am-11:15am Ocean Freight: Setting the Course for Smooth Sailing Ocean freight typically represents your second largest expense and with see-saw freight pricing, how can you minimize freight costs while maximizing efficiencies and profitability? A panel of experts including Chad Rosenberg of American Global Logistics, John Graves of Hanjin Shipping, Steve Wolfe of Stanley Furniture, Steve Burdette of Havertys Furniture and John Lomax of Furniture Brands will share invaluable tools and tips for staying afloat in today’s market.
11:15am-11:30am Break 11:30am-12:30pm Home (Sweet Home) Delivery
159/NIGHT
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As e-commerce sales continue to rise, will demand for home delivery also rise? Are traditional retailers turning to home delivery rather than maintaining their own delivery fleets? With the majority of furniture imported from Asia, what
challenges does this pose to home delivery companies? Why are some importers now taking on the role of home delivery? Patrick Cory of Cory Home Delivery, Keith Hewitt of hepdirect, Will O’Shea of 3PD and Jim Waters of Home Depot, along with their retail partners, will address these critical topics.
12:30pm-1:30pm Lunch and Networking 1:30pm-2:30pm The Law, Logistics and You Mike Roll, Pisani & Roll LLP Are you CTPAT proficient? Does your new math include an understanding of 10+2 Importer Security Filings? To help you understand these intricate issues, we’ve invited Mike Roll of Pisani & Roll LLP, a law firm that specializes in international trade and customs law, including matters relating to supplychain security, to be your guide. He also will provide an update on the latest developments with U.S. Customs.
2:30pm-3:30pm Warehouse Management: Thinking Inside and Outside Your Big Box With forecasting tougher than ever, the demand for just-intime delivery and domestic availability is spiking. Whether you are a retailer, importer or are related to any of the links in the supply chain, you need to bring your notepad to this session. Bob Smith of Garr Consulting will lead a panel discussion that includes Eric Lamphier from Manhattan Associates, Jack Hawn of Zenith and Edward Massood of Thomasville.
3:30pm-3:45pm Break 3:45pm-4:15pm Q&A, Closing Remarks, Adjourn
WESTIN PEACHTREE PLAZA 800-241-6405
Register online at www.FurnitureTodayOnline.com/Conferences. For more information contact Heather Grant at (336) 605-1061 or hgrant@sandowmedia.com
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PEOPLETodaY Ginsey Home Solutions Adds New Position, Promotes Two vp of sales. He backGinsey Home Soluground includes positions has hired Allen tions at The Evercare Robinson to the newly Company, Coca-Cola created position of vp and Procter & Gamble. new business develHe will continue to be opment. In addition, based in Phoenix. GUY CONTE BRIDGET CROZIER the company has pro- ALLEN ROBINSON Crozier, a 14-year Ginsey Ginsey Ginsey moted Guy Conte veteran of Ginsey, has and Bridget Crozier. been promoted to vp of Robinson spent the past three a variety of directions, which sales. She was previously controlyears in M&A/business develop- include establishing Ginsey dis- ler and director of IT. She will ment. His 20 years of experience tribution in Europe and Latin, continue to oversee the compaalso includes five years at Perfect America,” said Herb Briggs, ceo ny’s internal retail account manFit, where he was most recently of Ginsey Home Solutions. agers. Her sales responsibilities director of marketing. Conte, who joined Ginsey will be focused on the United “He is off and running in in 2009, has been named senior States and Canada. HTT B E L L M AW R , N. J. —
Perfect Fit Hires Plant Manager CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Perfect Fit
Industries has named John Seawell plant manager for its Monroe, N.C. facility, which produces mattress pads, pillows and electric bedding products. He will report to senior vp of operations John Beliveau. Pre-
viously, Seawell served as plant manager and engineer with the Michelin Tire Company, where he utilized lean manufacturing tools such as Six Sigma and Value Stream Mapping. “As a good corporate citizen, we’re continually looking
at ways to not only run a more energy efficient operation, but also to keep as much manufacturing here in the US as we possibly can,” says Beliveau. “Adding John’s plant management expertise will go a long way in helping us continue to do both.” HTT
Shaw Living Promotes Hegwood DALTON , G A . — Shaw Living
has promoted Valerie Hegwood to the newly created position of national furniture chain manager. A Shaw Living rug specialist for Georgia and Tennessee since 2006, Hegwood has “extensive experience in rug sales,” the company noted, as well as
in commercial design development. She began her career at Shaw in 2003 as a territory manager in the Shaw Contract division in Atlanta. Based in Ringgold, Ga., Hegwood is now responsible for developing rug programs for major furniture chains throughout the United States.
“Valerie’s experience and background make her uniquely qualified for this new role,” said Jim Curtin, vp of sales. “She will work with our current team of rug specialists to develop programs in their territories, building on existing relationships while developing new ones.” HTT
Venus Taps Camarata for Marketing F O O T H I L L R A N C H , C A L I F. —
Venus Home has hired 15-year marketing veteran Julie Camarata as the company’s new director of marketing. She replaces Devanshi Patel, who is leaving the company next month to pursue a Masters of Business Administration at Georgetown University. Camarata comes to Venus from PIP Printing and Marketing Services, where she served as director of marketing. She is set to start May 2, and she will report to the company’s owners.
“I am very confident that Julie’s professional and leadership experiences will strongly support and advance Venus’ growth within its identified strategic markets,” said Patel, who is credited with developing Venus’ marketing department in 2008. “I could not have asked for a better ‘home’ to start my professional career,” Patel told HTT. “In the last two-and-a-half years with Venus, the experiences that I have gained and the relationships that I have made are those I will cherish forever.” HTT
Ex-Macy’s Executive Suval Starts Consulting Firm WHITE P LAINS , NY — Helaine
Suval, longtime e-commerce and retailing executive in the home industry, has launched her own consulting company, Suval Consultants. Suval, who retired earlier this year as executive vice president and general merchandise manager for macys.com, said her new firm will “provide strategy, leadership and guidance” based on her expertise in ecommerce and digital business strategy and development. When she joined macys.com a decade ago, the fledgling business was doing $40 million a year
and had just five employees. By the time she left, the business had grown to $1.1 billion with more than 400 people on staff. In announcing her new business, she said she was “the strategic leader for macys.com merchandising and marketing direction, aggressively expanding and identifying key businesses and opportunities for growth and development.” Suval spent the latter part of her career in the online world, but prior to that she held executive positions with Bloomingdales, Avon and Ex-Cell Home Fashions. HTT
Surtex Announces Student Design Contest Winners WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — Four stu-
dents from schools in the U.S., Canada and United Kingdom have been named winners in the Surtex 2011 designext student competition and will have their designs displayed during the upcoming Surtex show, which runs May 15-17 at the Javits Center in New York City. For this year’s contest, students
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were asked to create a collection of original surface designs to be used in a commercial interior in the year 2020. The winners are: • Keia Barua of Savannah, GA, a senior student in the Fibers Department at the Savannah College of Art and Design, Savannah, GA. • Jane Bridges of Bradford, United Kingdom, a third-year
student in the Department of Contemporary Surface Design & Textiles at Bradford School of Arts & Media. • Melodie Flook of Guelph, Ontario, Canada, a third-year student in the Department of Crafts and Design at the Sheridan Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, Oakville, Ontario.
• Louise Tiler of Leeds, United Kingdom, a third-year student in the Department of Printed Textiles and Surface Pattern at the Leeds College of Art. Winners were picked by a panel of industry professionals, including: Violet Brandwein of Kate’s Paperie; Henny Lakin of Creative Bath Products, Inc.; Diane Piemonte of Rev-
man International; Ronald Redding of York Wallcoverings, and Eddie Ross of Eddie Ross, Inc. “Our student design competition dates to the very beginning of Surtex itself 25 years ago,” said Penny Sikalis, show manager and vp of show organizer GLM. “We have always felt that it’s vitally important to nurture the next wave of designers.” HTT
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Home Textiles Today
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May 9, 2011
BUSINESS TodaY Consumer Confidence Index Rebounds in April NEW YORK — The Conference
Board’s monthly Consumer Confi dence Index rose slightly to 65.4 in April after sharply declining to 63.8 in March (1985=100), the research organization reported late last month. The Present Situation Index increased to 39.6 from 37.5, while the Expectations Index rose to 82.6 from 81.3. The preliminary monthly results were based on a consumer survey done by the Nielsen Co. through April 14. “Consumer confidence, which had declined sharply in March, posted a modest gain in April,” said Lynn Franco, director of The Conference Board Consumer Research Center. The index fell about 8 points between February and March. “Consumers’ short-term
outlook improved slightly, suggesting that the uncertainty expressed last month is easing,” Franco said. “Infl ation expectations, which had spiked, retreated somewhat in April. Although confidence remains weak, consumers’ assessment of current conditions gained ground for the seventh straight month, a sign that the economic recovery continues.” Consumers’ appraisal of present-day conditions, although mixed, improved in April. Those st ating conditions are “good” decreased slightly to 14.8% from 15%. Those stating business conditions are “bad” also declined slightly to 36.4% from 36.6%. Consumers’ assessment of the labor market was more favorable than last month. Those saying jobs are “hard to get” declined
to 41.8% from 44.4%, while those stating jobs are “plentiful” increased to 5.2% from 4.6%. Consumers’ short-term outlook, which had soured in March, improved moderately in April. While those expecting business conditions to improve over the next six months declined to 18.8% from 20.8%, those anticipating business conditions to worsen decreased to 14.2% from 15.5%. Consumers were mixed about the labor market outlook for the next six months. Those expecting more jobs in the months ahead declined to 17.5% from 19.6%, while those anticipating fewer jobs declined to 19.0% from 20.5%. The proportion of consumers expecting an increase in their incomes improved to 16.7% from 15.2%. HTT
HSNi Profit Rises ST. PETERSBURG, FLA. — Multichannel retailer HSNi saw its net income jump 13% in the first quarter as price point and gross profit margin both increased. Net income for the quarter ended March 31 was $20.3 million, or 36 cents per share, compared to $17.7 million, or 31 cents per share, during the yearago period. Total sales rose 6% to $724 million, driven primarily by a 20% jump in sales at its Corner-
stone division, which includes Garnet Hill, Ballard Designs, Frontgate, Improvements, Smith + Noble, The Territory Ahead and TravelSmith. Cornerstone’s sales rose to $197.8 million, while sales in the HSN division rose 1% to $526.2 million. Company ceo Mindy Grossman told analysts during last week’s quarterly conference call that Internet sales now account for 58% of the company’s business. HTT
Same-store sales
Heavy Storms Slow Southeastern Sales NEW YORK —Same-store sales for the month of April rose 5.1%, with comps in the final week of the month rising 5.5%, according to the Johnson Redbook. Severe storms in the southeast shut down many busi-
nesses, noted Redbook analyst Catlin Levis. She added some retailers are reporting an uptick in sales related to Mother’s Day. Redbook’s initial target for May is a year-over-year comp increase of 4.7%. HTT
Johnson Redbook Index
Overstock.com Posts a Loss SALT L AKE C ITY — Overstock.
com swung to a loss during the first quarter as gross margin declined in the face of more promotional events and high re-
turn costs. Net loss for the quarter ended March 31 was $454,000, or 2 cents per share, compared to net income in last year’s 1Q of $3.7
million, or 16 cents per share. Revenues were flat — $265.5 million compared to $264.3 million in the year-ago period.
Fourth week of April, year-over-year % change WEEK ENDED
4/9
4/16
4/23
Department stores* Discounters Redbook Index
2.8 5.7 4.7
3.3 6.1 5.1
3.7 6.2 5.3
4/30
3.5 6.6 5.5
MONTH
3.3 6.1 5.1
TARGET
3.5 7.5 6.1
*Including chain stores and traditional department stores Source: Johnson Redbook Index
HTT
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Business
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April Sales Shower SALES FROM PAGE 1
Even so, the off-price chain was among the month’s key retailers reporting the lowest comp gain. “It’s worth noting that these results were achieved despite unfavorable weather in many U.S. and Canadian regions,” Meyrowitz added. “We are particularly pleased that April comp sales at The Marmaxx Group far exceeded our expectations. Further, the tone of business was strong toward the end of the month which bodes well as we enter the second quarter.” Home was singled out specifically as a bright spot in April by three retailers on the list — Kohl’s, The Bon-Ton Stores and Stein Mart. Kevin Mansell, chairman, president and ceo of Menomonee Fall, Wis.-based Kohl’s, said the home business,
with 13%, Dillard’s with 11%, Macy’s with 10.8%, Kohl’s with 10.2%, and Ross Stores with 10.0% – and yet many of them said the gains fell below their expectations. M e m p h i s , Te n n . - b a s e d Fred’s posted the lowest gain at 1.8% and blamed mostly harsh weather conditions with hindering potentially better results. “It’s difficult to determine the sales and economic impact
WINNERS AND LOSERS Same-store sales % change
WINNERS Target Corp. Dillard’s Inc. Macy’s Inc. Kohl’s Ross Stores Duckwall-ALCO JCPenney Costco Wholesale Corp. The Bon-Ton Stores TJX Companies Stein Mart Inc. BJ’s Wholesale Inc. Fred’s Inc.
10.0%
13.0% 11.0% 10.8% 10.2% 10.0% 6.8% 6.4% 6.0% 5.1% 5.0% 4.2% 4.1% 1.8%
8.5%
8.5%
2011 year-over-year
7.0% 5.5% 4.0% 2.5%
and soft lines were below plan.” Also concerned about the impacts of inflation on shoppers’ pocketbooks is Target. While the Minneapolis-based discount chain led the pack in comps, Target was nonetheless disappointed with its “somewhat below-expectations” April performance. Chairman, president and ceo Gregg Steinhafel explained Target’s shoppers “continued to be very cautious in their spending leading up to Easter. Target remains focused on delivering an outstanding shopping experience, providing unbeatable value on high quality, well-designed items throughout our as-
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May 9, 2011
sortment. This is more important than ever for our guests as they face increasing pressure on their household budgets due to higher energy costs and increasing prices of food, apparel and home merchandise.” The highest single-digit increase — 6.8% — went to Duckwall-ALCO in Abilene, Kan., representing the regional discounter’s second consecutive quarter of positive comps. Pleased with its 6.4% comp JCPenney, causing the chain to raise its first quarter earnings guidance to approximately 24 cents per share, including previously announced non-comparable items. The company had
previously expected earnings to be in the range of 18 to 23 cents per share. Ross Stores, too, increased its earnings guidance for the first quarter. “We are pleased with our robust sales gains for April that were well ahead of our expectations for a 4% to 5% increase,” said Michael Balmuth, vice chairman and ceo. “Based upon our above-plan sales as well as favorable gross margin and expense trends for the first quarter, we now estimate earnings per share for the 13 weeks ended April 30, 2011 to be $1.47 to $1.48, a 27% to 28% increase over last year.” HTT
APRIL SALES FOR KEY RETAILERS Four weeks ended April 30, 2011 (dollar amounts in millions) a
BJ’s Wholesale Club b The Bon-Ton Stores Inc. Costco Wholesale Corp. d e Dillard’s Inc. Duckwall-ALCO Stores Inc. Fred’s Inc. J. C. Penney Company Inc. Kohl’s Corp. Macy’s Inc. Ross Stores Inc. Stein Mart Inc. Target Corp. The TJX Companies Inc.
2011 SALES
2010 SALES
$871.7 $197.7 $6,800.0 $448.4 $35.3 $141.8 $1,261.0 $1,278.0 $1,924.0 $651.0 $96.0 $4,874.0 $1,700.0
$777.0 $189.1 $5,830.0 $406.3 $32.3 $137.5 $1,219.0 $1,139.0 $1,735.0 $570.0 $92.9 $4,288.0 $1,600.0
TOTAL % CHG.
SAME-STORE % CHG.
12.2 4.6 17.0 10.0 9.1 3.0 3.4 12.1 10.9 14.0 3.3 13.7 9.0
4.1 5.1 6.0 11.0 6.8 1.8 6.4 10.2 10.8 10.0 4.2 13.1 5.0
TOTAL % CHG.
SAME-STORE % CHG.
13 WEEKS
1.0%
April Same-Store Sales
-0.5% -2.0%
Johnson Redbook Index
-3.5% -5.0%
APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR Source: Johnson Redbook Retail Sales Average, a unit of Instinet, a Reuters company.
along with accessories and children’s, outperformed the company’s average for the month. At York, Pa.-based Bon-Ton, the month’s best performing categories included the home area. And among Jacksonville, Fla.-based Stein Mart’s “strongest categories was home, said David Stovall, Jr., president and ceo. Double-digit comp increases were enjoyed by five retailers on the list — Target Corp.
htt110501_018_019 19
of the storms, but as reported, Alabama, Mississippi and Arkansas — the heart of our chain — were devastated during the last 10 days of the month,” said Bruce Efird, Fred’s ceo. “The combination of the storms, along with rising food and gas prices, is becoming a real challenge for our customers. As a result, even though customer traffic met expectations, average ticket, as one might expect, was down as historically key departments such as lawn and garden,
BJ’s Wholesale Club b The Bon-Ton Stores Inc. Costco Wholesale Corp. f Dillard’s Inc. Duckwall-ALCO Stores Inc. Fred’s Inc. J. C. Penney Company Inc. Kohl’s Corp. Macy’s Inc. Ross Stores Inc. Stein Mart Inc. Target Corp. The TJX Companies Inc.
2011 SALES
2010 SALES
$2.8 $649.9 $57,590.0 $1,460.8 $114.6 $484.4 $3,943.0 $4,162.0 $5,892.0 $2,075.0 $303.5 $15,580.0 $5,200.0
$2.5 $661.4 $51,040.0 $1,432.3 $108.5 $471.6 $3,929.0 $4,035.0 $5,574.0 $1,935.0 $301.0 $15,158.0 $5,000.0
a. Reporting periods vary from chain to chain. b. These comp results exclude the impact of gasoline. Including a contribution from sales of gasoline, comps increased in the month by 8.5%. c. These comp results exclude the positive impact from sales of gasoline. Including a contribution from gas sales, comps increased year to date by 6.3%. d. Total sales results in April include sales fromthe company’s Mexico joint venture; without those sales, the increase year to date by 14.0%. e. These comp results are for the U.S. division and do not include the
10.0 (1.7) 13.0 2.0 5.6 3.0 0.4 3.1 5.7 7.0 0.8 2.8 4.0
2.4 (1.2) 4.0 2.0 3.2 1.0 3.8 1.3 5.4 3.0 1.5 2.0 2.0
positive impacts of inflation in gasoline prices and strengthening foreign currencies. Including those impacts, comps for the month were up 11% in the U.S. division, 16% in the international division, and 12% for the total company. f. Because it is on a different fiscal calendar than the other key retailers on this list, Costco’s year-to-date sales and comp results reflect the past 35-week period. Year-to-date comp results here are for the U.S. division and do not include the positive impact of inflation in gasoline and strengthening foreign currencies. Including those impacts, comps were up 6% in the U.S., 14% in the international division, and 8% for the total company.
5/5/2011 5:02:20 PM
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Home Textiles Today
May 9, 2011
Manufacturers and Exporters Gather at India International Handwoven Fair CHENNI, INDIA — The Han-
> hometextilestoday.com
360 Park Avenue South, New York, N.Y. 10010 Tel: (646) 805-0227; Fax: (646) 365-2307 www.hometextilestoday.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jennifer Marks 10 Ocean Blvd #8B Atlantic Highlands, N.J. 07716 (732) 204-2012 | jnegley@hometextilestoday.com FOUNDING EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Carole Sloan
dloom Export Promotion Council’s (HEPC) winter fair here featured a Theme Pavilion with the concept “Modern Traditions…Naturally Handlooms,” which showcased the entire range of products, including many home textiles. Around 82 manufacturers/exporters from across the country and 50 buyers from countries such as Brazil, Japan, Italy, France, Ireland, Poland, Sweden, Nepal, Tajikistan, South Africa, Uganda, Spain Germany, U.S.A., Serbia, U.A.E., Indonesia, Kuwait, Bulgaria and Kazakhstan participated in the three-day fair. HTT
PRODUCT 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 DIRECTOR OF MARKET RESEARCH Dana French (336) 605-1091 | dfrench@sandowmedia.com PUBLISHER/EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Warren Shoulberg (646) 805-0226 | wshoulberg@hometextilestoday.com ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER 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, CHINA Nancy Yu Tel: 86 (0) 21 5126 0111; Fax: 86 (0) 21 6539 0321 nancy@oceaniamedia.net MANAGER, EUROPE Mirek Kraczkowski Tel: 48 22 401 70 01; Fax: 48 22 401 70 16 | kraczko@aol.com MANAGER, INDIA Kaushal Shah Cell: 91-9821715431; Tel: 91-22-6663 4597 / 24988658 Fax: 91-22-66634596 | Kaushal@kaushals.com ONLINE SALES MANAGER Penny Schneck (336) 605-1084 | pschneck@sandowmedia.com PRODUCTION MANAGER Rich Lamb Tel: (336) 605-1074; Fax: (336) 605-1143 | rlamb@ sandowmedia.com DIRECTOR, WEB OPERATIONS Chris Schultz | (336) 605-1076 | cschultz@sandowmedia.com MANAGER, CLIENT SERVICES, WEB ADVERTISING Dan Sage | (336) 605-1080 | dsage@sandowmedia.com E-MEDIA PROJECT MANAGER Missy Axe | (336) 605-1005 | maxe@sandowmedia.com DIRECTOR OF AUDIENCE MARKETING Allison Ternes (704) 573-9007 | aternes@sandowmedia.com PRESIDENT, FURNITURE TODAY GROUP Kevin Castellani (336) 605-1034 | kcastellani@sandowmedia.com
SANDOW MEDIA PRESIDENT AND CEO Adam I. Sandow VP CREATIVE AND EDITORIAL Yolanda E. Yoh EVP, GROUP PUBLISHER James N. Dimonekas SUBSCRIPTIONS: U.S.A. (866) 456-0405 All other countries: (515) 247-2984 HTTcustserv@cdsfulfillment.com FAX SUBSCRIPTIONS: 1-866-310-7181
Window Coverings Expo WINDOWS FROM PAGE 2
hardware collection with rods available in satin nickel, brushes nickel, brushed black nickel, matte black, rust, oil-rubbed bronze, antique copper, brushed brass, antique brass finishes. Orion Ornament al Iron Inc., North Hollywood, Calif., showed several new collections, including Tuscany lightweight single and double embossed metal rods and lightweight decorative single narrow, me-
htt110501_020_022.indd 20
dium and tall-sized metal cornices. Their Bohemia Collection of decorative handcrafted crystal finials on iron rods accommodates both round and square hollow iron rods. Each Bohemia finial is shipped in a custom box for optimum protection, Atul Patel, president, noted. Since 1872, Busche has been making curtain rails and products in Germany for the interior design trade. Its new motorized pole sets were introduced at the show by distributor Forest Decorative Hardware, Cartersville, Ga. Offered in the midhigh price range, the aluminum rods feature finely-crafted finials in pol-
ished chrome, satin nickel and black finishes. The integrated emergency control insures manual operation in case of power failure. Called “a fresh and lovely concept in swing arm hardware,” Helser Brothers, Chandler, Ariz., showed the Evita Collection. Designed specifically for wider, heavier drapery applications, Evita can be augmented with an optional drapery tieback arm that doubles as a handle for opening/closing the swing arm without touching the fabric. Also available in this style is a tassle tieback available in 7/8-inch and 1 1/14-inch sizes. HTT
THE WEEKLY BUSINESS AND FASHION NEWSPAPER OF THE HOME TEXTILES INDUSTRY® 360 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10010 Telephone: (646) 805-0227 Fax: (646) 365-2307 USPS 497-490 HOME TEXTILES TODAY (USPS 497-490) (ISSN 0195-3184) is published 29 times a year except for the weeks of 1/3, 2/14, 2/28, 3/20, 4/11, 4/25, 5/2, 5/16/,5/30, 6/13, 6/27, 7/4, 8/1, 8/15, 8/29, 9/5, 9/26, 10/17, 10/31, 11/14, 11/28, 12/12, 12/26 by Furniture/Today Media Group, 360 Park Avenue South, 17th fl., New York, NY, 10010 a subsidiary of Sandow Media LLC, 3731 NW 8th Ave, Boca Raton, FL 33431. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY, and additional mailing offices. HOME TEXTILES TODAY copyright ©2011 by Sandow Media LLC. Annual subscription rates: U.S. and Canada $169.97; 1 year, other countries $325.99 for surface mail and $525.00 for airmail. All payments must be made in U.S. currency. Subscription inquiries: HOME TEXTILES TODAY, PO Box 5879, Harlan, IA 51593-1379. Phone: (866) 456-0405. HOME TEXTILES TODAY and THE BUSINESS AND FASHION NEWSPAPER OF THE HOME TEXTILES INDUSTRY are registered trademarks of Sandow Media LLC, used under license. Sandow Media LLC does not assume and hereby disclaims liability to any person for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions in the material contained herein, regardless of whether such errors result from negligence, accident or any other cause whatsoever. (Posted under Canadian International Publication Agreement No.40624074. Sandow Media/CDS (Mint Hill) POSTMASTER: Send address changes to HOME TEXTILES TODAY, P.O. Box 5879, Harlan, IA, 51593-1379 Email: HTTcustserv@cdsfulfillment.com. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: RCS International; APC; PO Box 503, RPO West Beaver Creek, Rich Hill, ON L4B 4R6
5/5/2011 4:25:52 PM
Global Interiors Home Collection Show
September 18-22 A Must-See Destination Fall NY Home Fashions Market Week 295 5th Avenue and 7 West 34th Street Exhibitor registration begins May 16. Join an exciting array of companies from around the world and across the United States in this global presentation of home fashion products from existing suppliers as well as new companies looking to enter the U.S. marketplace.
For complete information, contact: Joe Carena, Show Manager, jvcarena@gmail.com (203) 329-9553
For complete exhibitor information, contact: Warren Shoulberg, Publisher, Home Textiles Today wshoulberg@hometextilestoday.com (646) 805-0226
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Aftermath STORMS FROM PAGE 1
to locate its missing staffers as well as compiling a list of employees who were affected by the storms.
“We’re putting together a monetary assistance plan to help those people.” —JOHN MAPLES, Maples Rugs
“We’re putting together a monetary assistance plan to help those people,” Maples told HTT. The company was additionally providing support and donations to several local organizations aiding affected storm victims. At Oriental Weavers USA,
May 9, 2011
based here, said last Wednesday that “everything is well,” according to Aaron Gray, director of marketing. “Our business was uninterrupted in Dalton. Some of our employees that live north of Dalton experienced some power outages, but everything is well here. [There is] still a lot of work to be done in other areas.” Balta U.S., also here, was “back to normal. All power has been restored, and we are running our normal schedule.” Sugar Valley, Ga.-based Mohawk Home, too, was “back to 100% with no issues. The area is still pretty devastated north of here, primarily in Ringgold and Tennessee, so some of the people are still affected. But I’m not aware of any of our associates that were injured, or had major damage to their residences,” said Bart Hill, general manager of area and bath rugs. HTT
News
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NRF’S RAMA Division Taps Rob Gruen as Second Vice Chairman WASHINGTON — The National Retail Federation’s Retail Advertising and Marketing Association has appointed industry veteran Rob Gruen as its second vice chairman. RAMA’s board selected Gruen for the two-year-term post. He
succeeds Zain Raj, president and coo of SolutionSet. Gruen is currently the evp of marketing and business development at Array Marketing, From 2007 to 2009 Gruen served as the evp of merchandising and marketing of Borders. Earlier in
his career, Gruen’s resume includes: evp of merchandising at the Home Shopping Network (HSN); president and ceo of Parisian; and several senior executive posts at Meijer, Warner Bros. Consumer Products, Roses Stores, and Foley’s. HTT
K.I.D.S’ 5th Annual Women in Industry Luncheon Set for June 1 N EW YORK — Ticket sales have opened for the K.I.D.S’ 5th Annual Women in Industry Luncheon on June 1, at which CHF Industries’ Joan Karron will be one of the honorees. K.I.D.S — Kids in Distressed Situations — provides new cloth-
ing, toys, books and baby items to 4.7 million children in need each year. In addition to Karron, honorees include Lorna Nagler, president of Beall’s Department Stores; Mary Gleason, president of the Schottenstein Luxury Group; and Lisa
Goldberg and Leslie Venokur, founders of Big City Moms. The event will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pierre Hotel, 2 E. 61 St. Individual tickets are $250. For information, call (845) 758-8403 or email kids_luncheon@fontier.com. HTT
CLASSIFIEDS Wanted: Sales Manager, as well as Replenishment Buyer and Packaging Designer Leading Bath, Kitchen & Acct Rug Mfr w NYC Showroom/Design/ Sales Office, Company Owned Factory in China & East/West Coast Distribution Centers looking for talented, hard working Sales Manager with experience selling Major Retailers. Attn: BB20151 to classifieds@sandowmedia.com
LINES OFFERED A leading mfr of home textiles located in Turkey seeks Sales Reps with exp. selling to retailers, hotels, importers. Towels, sheets, bathrobes, hospitality, jacquard - yarn dyed towels. From warehouse in CT or Turkey. Email resume to: ismail@makroteks.com
THEY’RE LOOKING FOR YOU
SPENCER WHITTLE: swhittle@sandowmedia.com ph 336.605.1027 fax 336.605.1143
KAREN HANCOCK: khancock@sandowmedia.com ph 336.605.1047 fax 336.605.1143
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CLOSEOUTS CLOSEOUTS WANTED --BOUGHT AND SOLD-Seeking Unlimited Quantities on Firsts, Irregulars and Overstocks HOME FASHIONS DISTRIBUTOR INC Mike O’Neil 207-646-1949 Email: mike@homefashionsinc.com
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