IHFC adds more 3rd floor space for accents
The International Home Furnishings Center in High Point has added more space on its third floor for home accessories showrooms after prospective tenants snapped up newly offered temporary exhibit spaces in a matter of days this fall.
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Decorative accessory vendors fight tough economy
Perhaps 2007 will be best remembered in the home accents industry as the year everyone ran twice as hard to stay in the same place. In the decorative accessories category, several manufacturers say rallying their teams — from designers to producers to retailers — is a top challenge as this year climbs into bed and prepares to turn out the light.
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IHFC adds more accessories space on 3
The International Home Furnishings Center in High Point has added more space on its third floor for home accessories showrooms after prospective tenants snapped up newly offered temporary exhibit spaces in a matter of days this fall. “The project went better than we'd expected, given the challenging times,” said Thomas M.
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Soft goods vendors bolstered by branching out
Soft goods manufacturers aren’t letting current economic challenges dampen their operations; instead, they are reaching out to new customers and adding complementary products to their lines to offer a one-service shop for retailers. Manufacturer Sharon M. Turner, president of Bella Rose by Chateau in Oklahoma City, summed up the market wryly: “Soft goods are a ...
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Lighting vendors focus on styling to stay competitive
As the lamp and lighting industry expands its overseas manufacturing, vendors are keenly aware that to attract retailers and consumers, you've got to have the look. “The great challenge is to design relevant product that meets and exceeds design expectations of today's consumer. It always comes back to design,” said Andrea Greene, vice president of creative development for New York...
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Schonbek bought by Swarovski
Swarovski U.S. Holding Ltd. has acquired Schonbek Worldwide Lighting and its affiliates, company officials announced late last month. Swarovski, a subsidiary of Swarovski International Holding, purchased a 100% interest in Schonbek in the deal that was reached Oct. 26. Schonbek manufactures decorative crystal lighting.
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Mirror producers reflect on challenges, opportunities
Since antiquity, people have paused before the mirror to take a look. But today, people are using mirrors to create a look, not just reflect one. The mirror's shift from utilitarian to decorative has fueled new creativity, and challenges, for manufacturers. Mac Cooper of Uttermost said that while people will forever peek at a tie or wisp of hair in a mirror, today's oversize, stylized mirrors h...
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Accent furniture cos. confront the challenges in the marketplace
In the global economy, manufacturers are influenced daily by how business unfolds in Asia. These days, that means a devalued dollar, labor shortages, higher production and shipping costs. Some accent furniture executives, however, have adopted a mindset for the times that sounds decidedly Eastern-influenced as well: In an uncertain world, look within to find strength.
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Business update: Rosy outlook for permanent botanicals
Permanent botanicals are making a strong showing this year, thanks to the segment's growth in status in recent years from nicety to necessity in room design. "A home without florals is like a suit without a tie," said Kris Nolan, president of Artistry in Silk. For many customers, the no-fail nature of permanent botanicals are a real draw and well worth the price, which can range from $50 to 50 ...
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Business Update: Turning on to the bright spots buoys lamp manufacturers
In spite of escalations in materials, transportation and labor costs — and decelerations in the housing market and retail traffic — portable lighting manufacturers are maintaining a focused, positive outlook as the busy summer and fall market season gets under way. After all, lamp producers say, lamps are one of the best bang-for-the-buck investments a consumer can make to update or...
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