Tom Tilley is back in case goods with the launch of Thomas & Gray, which will address the top end of medium price points with a line of bedroom, dining room and accent furniture emphasizing quality construction and outstanding finishes with plenty of options.
Tilley most recently was president of Hendredon, which he left last year, and his experience also includes leadership of Thomasville and Pennsylvania House, and serving as a key executive at Century.
Thomas & Gray will debut at October High Point Market with a showroom in Market Square 217. The initial round of product includes 28 pieces for bedroom, dining and occasional in two collections: the classic Italian Bella collection; and Ovation in Neo-Classical contemporary design. Pricing is still in development, but dressers should retail from $2,500 to $4,000.
Tilley, who is president of Thomas & Gray, said some might think the current economy makes it a bad time for a start-up, but he begs to differ.
"I think it might be a good time to get a new company off the ground," he said. "We've gone through the period of conspicuous consumption and easy credit, but things are changing. We're headed for cleaner and leaner times when we value the fewer and finer things in life. We're looking to use the finest materials and finishes, but at a price range attainable by consumers at medium price points."
Thomas & Gray's manufacturing partner is LEFA of Bogota, Columbia, whose furniture clients have included Baker, Milling Road, Henredon and others.
"I got to know them at Pennsylvania House, Thomasville and Henredon," Tilley said. "They understand high-end requirements for construction, sanding and finishing, and they're close. They make sense for us, as well, because they can handle smaller minimums and have the flexibility for custom finishing."
Columbia also is much closer to American ports than manufacturers in Asia. Thomas & Gray will target higher-end furniture stores, design-oriented boutique shops, and the interior design trade.
"The custom finishing is very important to these channels," Tilley said.
