Chrisley Promoted To President and CEO of Universal

Furniture World News

Universal Furniture International, Inc. announced that Randy Chrisley has been promoted to president and CEO effective immediately. Chrisley, a 35-year industry veteran, joined Universal in November 2001 as senior vice president of sales and marketing. Chrisley replaces Harvey Dondero who resigned from the company to pursue other career interests. “Harvey has made significant contributions during his years with Universal and we wish him and his family all the best in their future,” says Lacquer Craft’s founder and owner, Samuel Kuo. "Throughout Randy’s tenure with Universal he has shown tremendous leadership and insight. I am extremely confident that, through his guidance, Universal will be even more successful and innovative," says Kuo. Mohamad Amini, Lacquer Craft’s president, is clearly optimistic as well. "Randy has a keen understanding of Universal's current strengths in the marketplace, a clear vision for the company's growth and an enthusiasm for new opportunities." Commenting on Universal's plans, Chrisley noted that "over the past few years our management and sales team has laid the groundwork for tremendous growth, and we are realizing success in all areas of our business. We’re looking forward to continuing that growth and sustaining our well-respected leadership position in the industry." Chrisley states that, “Universal’s product success at retail is three-fold: great designs, precise execution and focused business strategies that allow us to exceed retailer and consumer expectations. Our company continues to retain strong retailer response and our April 2005 market will introduce a whole new dimension to our product offerings.” Lacquer Craft’s newly opened four million square-foot dedicated manufacturing and warehouse facility in Shanghai is a major strength behind the company’s success. Universal’s product line includes casegoods, occasional, home theater and most recently the company’s year-old upholstered seating division. About Universal Furniture International: Universal Furniture International, Inc., prizes its position as a highly regarded source for beautiful home furnishings at attractive prices. A division of Lacquer Craft, Universal offers design excellence and exceptional manufacturing processes from its dedicated facilities in China. Universal offers its collections through fine home furnishings retailers throughout North America and in numerous other countries.