The Lighter Side of the Dark Side,
by Tony Moretti

Is the grass ever greener on the other side? My experience tells me that it depends on which side of the fence (or universe) you stand. After spending 30-plus years on the retail side of the furniture industry I decided it was time for a change. So, I accepted a new position as vice-president of merchandising and product development at England Furniture and Upholstery, a La-Z-Boy Company.

Since my recent transition from retailing to manufacturing, business associates will often ask, “What’s it like to be on the dark side?” And I think, “What do they mean?” While to many in the furniture industry manufacturing is considered “the dark side,” I find it to be the total opposite.

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YANKELOVICH STUDIES “GOING GREEN”

Despite unwavering focus by the media, government and business, “going green” is only of moderate concern to most consumers, according to recent Yankelovich research.

Yankelovich’s survey of 2,763 consumers and their environmental attitudes found that only one-third (34 percent) of consumers feel much more concerned about environmental issues today than a year ago. And, less than one quarter (22 percent) of consumers feel they can make a difference when it comes to the environment.

“GOING Green,” conducted in collaboration with Getty images, was the first study of its kind to examine how much consumers really care about green issues.

Click here for more about this important survey.

Photography and Design
Studios Talk Inspiration

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IHFC EXPANDS, RENOVATES INTERHALL

Buyers attending Pre-Market here in High Point this week are getting a sneak peek at a dramatic work in progress at the International Home Furnishings Center (IHFC). The renovation and expansion of InterHall is nearing completion.

The $1.2 million project is IHFC’s response to demand for space in an area long known as an incubator for fashion trends. More than a year in planning (and six months of construction beginning last April), the renovation will preserve InterHall’s open, engaging appeal. The design integrates spacious and carpeted aisles that complement the stained concrete floor of each showroom space. Decorative and functional sconces line each aisle and complement the new modern signage and halogen track lighting.

“These changes are not only welcome, but will have a huge impact for buyers and exhibitors who can benefit from this upbeat, 21st Century space,” relates long-time exhibitor Peter Scheetz of Palu, Ltd.

Click here for more information about this Market development.

ACT NOW TO RECEIVE SPECIAL DISCOUNTS ON HOTEL ROOMS

Newsflash! If you’re interested in securing discounted hotel room rates for Fall Market, the time to act is now. Discounted hotel rooms are booking very quickly and will soon sell out completely. Take advantage of these special offers by making your plans now to join us for Fall Market, October 1 through 7, 2007.

Click here to find out how you can take advantage of these special rates.

FURNITURE LEADERS TO VIE FOR “FURNITURE IDOL” TITLE AT CITY OF HOPE SPIRIT OF LIFE® AWARD DINNER

It’s that time of year again, time to shed the corporate suits and see who really deserves the title of this year’s American Furniture Idol.

City of Hope’s National Home Furnishings Industry’s Spirit of Life Award dinner, slated for Wednesday, October 3, will feature the fourth annual American Furniture Idol competition. The dinner, honoring John Disa of Wickes Furniture and Kevin O’Connor of Samson Marketing, will be held in High Point at the Showplace tent during the High Point Market this Fall.

Click here for more about this exciting Market event.

WEBINAR EVENT: HOW TO PREPARE AN EFFECTIVE PRESS KIT

Attention High Point Market exhibitors: Getting ready for Fall Market and thinking about raising your company’s visibility? Interested in spotlighting your new product introductions?

Join us for a special webinar—“How to Prepare an Effective Press Kit”—presented by the American Home Furnishings Alliance (AHFA) in conjunction with the High Point Market Authority (HPMA) on Wednesday, August 29th at 10 a.m.

Click here for details on this informative on-line event.

"High Point is the only Market that has everything I need to see, all in one place."

Keith Jermyn
Owner, A Lasting Touch, Rock Hill, South Carolina


 
More than 85,000 registrants
More than 2600 Exhibitors
110 Countries Represented
Tens of Thousands of New Product Introductions
Fall 2007 Market Dates: October 1 - 7

High Point Market Authority •  101 South Main Street •  High Point, NC 27260