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Hot Furniture Trends for March
March 26, 2008
From What's Hot
While massive sectionals and poufy recliners are the preferred seating in many large homes, “apartment-sized” furniture is a growing category as more baby boomers sell their empty nests to take up residence in urban apartments or retirement co
Hot Furniture Trends for February
February 1, 2008
From What's Hot
“What’s Hot” has jumped from the bedroom to the living room and dining room in its monthly quest for popular styles. Naturally, for Home Furnishing Business’ Green issue, we focused on eco-friendly designers, and a wide variety of
Annie Selke Teams with Vanguard Furniture for Total Home Line
January 2008
From News
Vanguard Furniture is partnering with Annie Selke to create a licensed total home line set to debut this summer in New York. Selke is the founder of wholesale home design trio Pine Cone Hill, Dash and Albert Rug Co., and Potluck Studios. Selke’s classic yet innovative approach to home décor will be the hallmark of Annie Selke Home and will reflect the singular creative vision that drives the Annie Selke Cos. “We love Annie’s approach to design, her use of color and her feminine perspective,” said Dixon Mitchell, Vanguard president. “Her stunning use of textiles coupled with her flair for classic style that’s
The Role of the Rep
August 2007
From Home Furnishings Business
A lot of furniture retailers find themselves filling a number of roles for their customer base, and when it comes to training their sales personnel, manufacturer representatives bring insights that can help retail floors perform better not only for the owner, but also the vendor. Take Garden City Furniture, for example. The Garden City Beach, S.C., store is smack in the middle of a very traditional market, but one that also caters to vacation home owners seeking more casual styles by virtue of its coastal location. “Right now we’re selling a lot of outdoor looks, but we also have customers who are looking for
Getting the Most Out of Meetings
August 2007
From Home Furnishings Business
Putting together an effective sales meeting is not rocket science. It is a combination of courtesy, common sense and a dose of mutual respect between retail salespeople and a manufacturer’s representative. Karen Sawyer, a manufacturer rep for Vanguard, said store personnel need to be prepped for a sales meeting, and that even something as basic as punctuality can be an issue. “There’s nothing more disappointing than arriving at a meeting and the staff’s not there or is coming in late,” she said. “Make sure the appropriate personnel know and schedule for the time of the rep’s appointment.” Set clear goals for the meeting. Are
Vanguard Hires VP of Manufacturing
December 2006
From News
Eric Lail has been named vice president of manufacturing for Vanguard Furniture. In the position, Lail is responsible for the company’s daily manufacturing operations and will guide Vanguard’s strategic direction related to production performance. Initially, he will be continuing the company’s transformation to a continuous improvement environment driven by the principles of lean manufacturing. Lail reports to John Bray, chairman and chief executive officer. “Eric has an extensive background in manufacturing operations and a proven track record in successful lean manufacturing implementation,” Bray said. “Our partnership with him is exciting as his philosophies are so well suited with Vanguard’s vision and values. We look forward to benefiting