The High Point Market Authority announced that England, Inc., a La-Z-Boy Furniture Company, has joined the list of twenty-two major manufacturers sponsoring High Point Pre-Market , September 14 and 15th, 2009.
Thanks to the event’s sponsors, comprised in large part of the industry’s preeminent case goods companies, Pre-Market has steadily gained traction throughout the past two years as an invaluable event that enables leading retailers to preview product, secure distribution and strengthen relationships with key vendors and company principles.
While the event has historically centered on wood furniture, Dennis Valkanoff, who leads sales, marketing and merchandising efforts at England, believes that the competitive advantage Pre-Market affords case goods buyers and makers, can be enjoyed by upholstered furniture buyers as well.
“Retailers today want exclusivity,” the executive relates. “At a time when every buyer is looking for an edge, our focus is on expediting the process of getting product to Market. As a company, we are uniquely positioned to make speed to market a key differentiator because our manufacturing system enables us to deliver any custom-order to dealers in just 14 days. In fact, at Pre-Market, dealers will have an opportunity to see our October Market introductions, select fabric-to-frame combinations and literally take delivery for the Fall selling season by the time October Market begins. Additionally, because we’re concentrating on securing exclusive covers from domestic mills, we can offer dealers who attend Pre-Market the product exclusivity they require to set them apart in their marketplaces.”
“Retailers everywhere are searching for ways to differentiate themselves from the competition,” says Brian D. Casey, president and chief executive officer of the High Point Market Authority and spokesperson for the event’s sponsoring manufacturers. “Attending Pre-Market enables them to get out ahead, fine-tune their plans for Market, and of particular importance to those in highly competitive marketplaces, protect distribution. Along with high-level networking, the event offers an advance look at major product introductions and an opportunity to secure exclusives. Plus, participating in Pre-Market frees up precious time during Market one month later to seek out new products, programs and ideas that can be the key to moving business ahead.”
About England, Inc.: Launched in 1964 as a family-owned and operated upholstered furniture manufacturer in New Tazewell, Tennessee, the company was acquired three decades later by La-Z-Boy Furniture Co. Its American-made, custom upholstered furniture is marked by manufactured hardwood frames, self-repairing zippers, custom-comfort cushions, and what many consider to be the best warranties in the industry.
About the High Point Market Authority: The High Point Market Authority is the official sponsor of the High Point Market in High Point, North Carolina. Featuring an extensive selection of exhibitors spanning every category, style and price point and attracting thousands of visitors from more than 110 countries twice each year, the High Point Market is the driving force of the home furnishings industry.