Arbek Second Stage Import Expansion Program To Debut at July San Francisco Show

Furniture World Magazine

Arbek Furniture Mfg., Inc. will introduce the second stage of a major expansion program in upper end. imported furniture, accents and accessories at the July -market. The introduction will mark the beginning of a program that is designed to play a key role in Arbek's planned growth over the next decade, said Carlos Morales, Sr., president. Last year Arbek introduced a limited collection of imported bedroom suites as a prelude to the upcoming debut. "A newly created, company Milenio Trading Co., owned by Morales and Daniel Torres, will handle design and product selection of merchandise from around the world," the Arbek executive said. "Products will be marketed under the label Arbek International Selections by Milenio." Morales stated that selections from -the new furniture line were -shown at the April market. Subsequently the company will make a full presentation at the July San Francisco market. "Arbek International Selections will target higher-end and designer stores as well as offering the selections to current dealers," Morales noted. "We will highlight elaborate finishing and design details." Hardwoods, metals and leather will be extensively used. The imports will have from 17-21 finishing steps. Initially, the furniture will be produced in the Philippines, with future products coming from other parts of Asia as well as South America. Extensive investment will be made in delivery and quality serving as a hallmark of the new company that distinguishes it as an upper end producer, according to Morales, who disclosed that the new line is part of an Arbek Master Plan. While we will be focusing increasingly on higher end imports, domestic production in medium price furniture will still be a primary company concern," Morales emphasized "We don't want our dealers to be confused." The Arbek president observed that company planning calls for domestic and import concurrent growth. "We have every confidence that we can grow these lines simultaneously," Morales added.