Sawyer named SEHFA Retailer of the Year

Furniture World Magazine

Wendell Sawyer Sr. of Sawyer Furniture in Prichard, Alabama has been named Retailer of the Year by the Southeastern Home Furnishings Association (SEHFA). The award was presented Wednesday, June 10 in Gulf Shores, Ala, at the. conclusion of the association's annual convention. Sawyer, who has worked in the retail furniture business since 1955, opened his first furniture store on July 1, 1970 with only himself and two employees. Now, with six stores in the greater Mobile area, Sawyer Furniture employs 57 people and is headquartered at 204 S. Wilson Ave. in Prichard. Sawyer gives credit to his faithful employees and loyal customers for the stores' continuous growth over the past 28 years. "We pursue our relationship with the customer," he says. "That is what is most important to us, and what business is all about- repeat sales from loyal customers throughout the years." Sawyer is very involved with SEHFA and National Home Furnishings Association (NHFA), having served on the SEHFA Board of Directors and as past president. He has been a member of NHFA's Executive Committee, where he currently serves as affiliate liaison, since 1994 and is part of the association's Membership Committee. He and his wife, Cassandra, are also involved in various community and church activities. All three of Sawyer's children are actively involved in the furniture industry. Del Jr. is president and CEO of Sawyer Furniture, and Dawn and John manage two other store locations "He has done a lot for the national and affiliate associations," says Karin Mayfield, NHFA's Director of Education and Meetings. "He is thought of highly both as a businessman and as an association member," Sawyer was also the recipient of the Retailer of the Year award 17 years ago. It's quite a thrill to receive it a second time," he says. SEHFA is an affiliate of the National Home Furnishings Association. Headquartered in High Point, N.C., SEHFA provides education, programs, services and networking opportunities that improve the business and management practices of home furnishings retailers in the Southeast. For more information on SEHFA call 800-888-9590.