Todd Figi to receive Icon Lifetime Achievement Honor

Home Accents Today Staff -- Home Accents Today, 5/25/2011 2:18:44 AM

TODD FIGI, FOUNDER of Figi Giftware, has been named recipient of the Icon Honors 2011 Lifetime Achievement Honor by unanimous action of the Icon executive committee, according to Jeffrey L. Portman Sr., president and COO of Icon founding sponsor Americasmart Atlanta.

Figi's 40-year gift industry career and contributions will be celebrated posthumously at the July 14 event.

As defined in the Icon Honors Charter, the Lifetime Achievement Honor "recognizes a single individual demonstrating distinguished advancement and enduring industry impact over the course of a career." Figi died earlier this year at age 66.

Continuing a tradition established by his parents with their 1945 creation of Figi's Gifts In Good Taste, Todd Figi launched Figi Giftware in 1969 with a line of candles. The company grew into a manufacturer of everything from photo frames and wall décor to refrigerator magnets, employing more than 200.

"Todd Figi and the gift industry are synonymous," said George Kacic, vice president of Ganz, GHTA board chairman emeritus and an Icon Honors founding partner. "The company he created, the products he conceived and produced and the sales organization he built literally laid the foundation for the industry as we know it. Todd's mark on who we are is indelible and enduring."

Figi was chairman of the board of trustees of the Museum of Contemporary Art San Diego, president of the San Diego chapter of the Young Presidents' Organization and served as chairman of the California Gift Association.

"Rarely do we encounter a creator, visionary leader, entrepreneur and brilliant salesman in a single presence," Portman said. "Todd Figi was that single essential professional, empowered with boundless energy and an unmistakable passion for life. His contagious fascination with all things new creates the legacy we celebrate."