Emess coordinates Stein World, Cresswell

Integrating Stein World and Cresswell Lighting divisions into the Emess Design Group is creating big opportunities for the combined company.

CEO Michael R. Dene and President Mike Smith used the word "synergy" as they spoke of merging the values and fashions of accent furniture source Stein World with Cresswell's mid- to high-level lighting designs.

"The Cresswell side is now designed into the Stein World product so it coordinates with the accent furniture and it's also a fashion-forward line under the Cresswell brand," Dene said. "So it's Stein World by Cresswell and then Cresswell. The reason is we're looking to hit all lifestyles rather than (simply) contemporary or traditional. We're going across all fields, juvenile as well as high sophistication."

Retail reaction at the High Point market was among the best ever for the companies.

"So I think the combination is working," Dene said. "The synergy has really proved to us this is the right kind of company marriage between Stein World and Emess Design Group. I've been at this show for 32 years and I've had a lot of exciting moments, but I don't think I've ever seen such a passionate group of people. Buyers come in with such excitement; it's encouraging."

In October, Stein World moved to a 10,000 sq.-ft. IHFC showroom that allows them to show more than 500 items in one space. As important as variety is, Stein World President Andy Stein said value is the other distinguishing factor. "We are committed to offering furniture and lamps that offer a great look at affordable prices," Stein said. "Retailers know Stein World means high quality, high value product that moves quickly."

More than 90% of Stein World's line is kept in stock at its Memphis headquarters and can be shipped within a week, Stein said.

Being able to house such a large inventory has led to another expansion of its warehouse, which has tripled in the past five years to more than 450,000 square feet.