Samuelson Furniture’s President Lawrence Chalfin Named NEWH’s 2021 Icon of Industry
Furniture World News Desk on
12/31/2021
Lawrence Chalfin (left), Lawrence and his son, Executive Vice President Michael Chalfin (right)
Samuelson Furniture announces that President Lawrence Chalfin has been honored with NEWH’s 2021 Icon of Industry award. NEWH’s most prestigious accolade, the ICON of Industry program recognizes leaders in hospitality manufacturing who have uniquely impacted the industry through innovative work and a commitment to community for over 30 years. Lawrence was celebrated as this year’s Icon of Industry at the 41st Annual Gold Key Awards Gala on November 15 in New York City. At the event, a $7,500 scholarship was awarded to an exemplary student in the recipient’s honor.
“Receiving this award is incredibly meaningful for me, as I grew up in the family business under the guidance of my father and grandfather,” says Lawrence. “It’s a true honor to be able to carry out their legacy. I view this acknowledgement as a celebration of the commitment, passion, and hard work from every team member at Samuelson Furniture.”
Lawrence joined the family business in 1974 as the third generation, preceded by his grandfather and father. Today, he proudly works alongside his son Michael Chalfin, Executive Vice President, as the only fourth-generation company dedicated to the hospitality and senior living sectors, spanning over 85 years in business. Lawrence strongly believes in giving back to the local community and the design industry, leading many philanthropic endeavors for the company, including donations toward industry-related scholarships, Give Kids the World Village and the Paterson Task Force for Community Action.
“My father constantly strives to exceed client expectations and propel our business forward through product innovation, while simultaneously ensuring that all of the people who make it possible are well taken care of,” says Executive Vice President Michael Chalfin. “Anyone who knows him will acknowledge his authentic character and dedication to his family and company, and the progression of this industry. It’s an absolute privilege to work under his leadership.”
It has been an exciting year for Samuelson Furniture, alongside Lawrence’s ICON of Industry award, the brand also made its debut into the senior living market in early spring. On a mission to shake-up the industry with products that transform the lives of residents in assisted living communities, Living by Samuelson and Sound by Samuelson are designed to empower seniors and promote wellbeing through sound therapy, style, comfort, and more. Samuelson Furniture also recently received a patent for CATCH by Samuelson, a clever mechanism that suspends a folded walker on the back of a chair making personal items more accessible.
About Samuelson Furniture
Samuelson Furniture is the only fourth generation family-owned company dedicated to the hospitality and senior living sectors, providing high-end casegoods and seating for 4 and 5 Star projects. Based in New Jersey and led by its President Lawrence Chalfin and Executive Vice President Michael Chalfin, the Samuelson Furniture team distributes to the international market and global design community servicing the world’s finest hotels, timeshares, restaurants, country clubs and corporate environments. Samuelson's 85+ years of manufacturing experience lends valuable insight to design interpretation and solutions, providing in-house CAD design, drawings, model making and concept development. Through talented wood working, exceptional finishes and the finest quality of upholstery, Samuelson Furniture executes the vision provided by the designer at proper cost and value to the client. Samuelson's foundation has always been quality, service, integrity, and innovation. For more information, visit www.samuelsonfurniture.com.