Calgary Hosts Connections West 2007 - Initiative To Meet Challenges of Global Competition

Furniture World News

West Inc. the association of furniture manufacturers in Western Canada announced a first of its kind event coming to Calgary. Connections West is an innovation showcase that will serve as an important venue where members of the home furnishings industry can come together to network, build strong relationships, and exchange crucial, technical and marketing information. The event will allow members of the industry to view winning product innovations and rapidly gauge and verify customer acceptance and sales potential in their market areas. Connections West will take place June 18 and 19, 2007 at Stampede Park’s Round Up Centre in Calgary, AB. The event, produced by Furniture West, is endorsed by western furniture manufacturers and by a number of leading furniture retailers in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Individuals from these firms will be recognized at the launch as "Builders of the Future". “After thirty-five years of organizing our industry’s annual market, we reviewed the changing needs of our members and those of the retail trade” said Terry Clark, Chairman of Furniture West. “Our research provided new insights into the rapid changes and new challenges of global competition faced by all members of our industry... These insights serve as the cornerstone of Connections West 2007. This is the first event of its kind and we at Furniture West believe it will mark a significant milestone in strengthening our industry.” Clark went on to say “In addition to showcasing winning product innovations, Connections West centers on bringing factory management and technical personnel to meet one-on-one with retailers from across the west. The event will provide both sides with a unique opportunity to discuss retailers’ specific product placement gaps that could be filled with suppliers’ winning product innovations.” Furniture West also announced that the industry has selected Habitat For Humanity as the recipient of a donation from the proceeds of fees collected from firms showcasing their products at Connections West. Habitat For Humanity was selected in recognition and support of the organization’s dedication to building hope and breaking the cycle of poverty. About Furniture West Inc.: Furniture West was founded in 1971 to assist furniture manufacturers in the production and marketing of their products. The Association has organized the industry’s annual trade show for thirty-five consecutive years. Today, 150 companies throughout western Canada are members. Membership includes a number of firms who supply raw materials and services to the manufacturing industry in western Canada. To learn more about Connections West 2007 or Furniture West, please call: 1-800-665-7390.