Henry Vanderminden IV Named 2025 Chair of the ICFA Board of Directors

Furniture World News Desk on 1/7/2025

Henry J.W. Vanderminden IV, president of Telescope Casual Furniture, Inc., has been named Chair of the Board of Directors for the International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA) for 2025. As the casual furnishings industry experiences significant growth, Vanderminden emphasizes the importance of collaboration and the opportunities presented by Casual Market Atlanta.

“Continuing the pandemic peak requires the efforts of every segment of our industry,” Vanderminden said. “Participating in Casual Market Atlanta – the greatest display of outdoor furniture in the world – is the most powerful way for ICFA members to ensure their companies’ success.”

Industry Leadership and Evolution
Vanderminden brings decades of experience to his role. He attended his first industry event at Casual Market in Chicago in 1987, traveling with his father, Henry “Hank” J.W. Vanderminden III, a long-serving board member of the Summer and Casual Furniture Manufacturers Association, a predecessor to the ICFA. Vanderminden previously served as ICFA Chair from 1999 to 2000 and is returning to the role 25 years later.

Reflecting on the ICFA’s progress, Vanderminden noted the association’s expansion to include retailers, designers, sales representatives, manufacturers, and suppliers. “The relocation of Casual Market from Chicago to Atlanta is a perfect example of a powerful business-building strategy the Association can provide,” he said.

Casual Market Atlanta and Incentives
The ICFA’s relocation of Casual Market to the AmericasMart building in Atlanta created a modern, centrally located venue. The new space features a contemporary design and offers nearly 30 percent more exhibit space, spread across floors 2–7.

“Recognizing the value we could offer in Atlanta, most manufacturers chose to lease larger spaces, enjoying the opportunity to showcase more products in a place with a contemporary, professional ambiance,” Vanderminden said.

For buyers, ICFA and ANDMORE, the venue owner, have co-developed a travel incentive program. Retailers can apply for funding covering two hotel rooms for two staff members for two nights, with a third night included for ICFA members. “If a retailer chooses to join the ICFA, they pay the $300 membership fee and immediately receive the full incentive,” Vanderminden explained.

Manufacturers also benefit from cost-saving opportunities, such as discounts for early registration and participation in both the July and September Markets. Temporary exhibitors who commit to both shows receive free product storage and a 50 percent discount for the second event.

“Telescope was once a temporary exhibitor at the Market,” Vanderminden said. “It is a smart, strategic first step for companies just starting or expanding their product lines.”

Expanding Membership and Educational Opportunities
To support membership growth, the ICFA recently hired two regional staff members to focus on retailer recruitment: Candy Chase, a 25-year industry veteran, for the Western region, and Jill Schiff, formerly of Mercedes-Benz, for the Eastern region. Both will serve as resources for retail members.

Additionally, the ICFA will continue to offer educational opportunities through its Elevate Educational Conference in February and Retailer Roundtables held before each Market. Wayne Paul of Bay Breeze Patio in Miramar Beach, Fla., highlighted the value of these events, saying, “Going to Casual Market Atlanta is well worth it just for that!”

Looking Ahead
Vanderminden aims to build on the success of previous ICFA boards and the leadership of Executive Director Jackie Hirschhaut. “Our strategies for growth will build our membership and expand our influence on the global casual furnishings market,” he said.

Grateful for his family business and the relationships he has forged over the years, Vanderminden is optimistic about the future of the ICFA and the industry. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling with his wife and three adult children, along with outdoor sports like biking, skiing, and boating.

For more information about the ICFA, visit www.icfanet.org.

About The International Casual Furnishings Association
The International Casual Furnishings Association supports and promotes the growth of the outdoor and casual furnishings industry through professional education, networking and development. It is the only trade organization committed to promoting the sales of its members’ quality products and services. It is a powerful partnership of manufacturers and importers, retailers, sales representatives and designers of outdoor furnishings plus suppliers to the industry. For more information, please see  www.icfanet.org.