Taylor King Furniture Celebrates 30th Anniversary

Furniture World Magazine

Taylor King, a manufacturer of upper end upholstery and occasional furniture, recently celebrated its 30th anniversary with a ceremony and celebration at company headquarters in Taylorsville, North Carolina. Established by Herman Shook in 1974, Taylor King is one of the most trusted names in home furnishings. President Del Starnes addressed the company's 190 employees during the event. "Our company’s stellar growth can be contributed to an extensive product offering, superior customer service, and outstanding quality," he said. "We owe our success to each of you for all of your hard work over the years." Two honored guests at the celebration were Herman Shook, founder of Taylor King, and his wife, Rachel. "We would not be standing here today if it were not for the entrepreneurial spirit of Rachel and Herman Shook," stated CEO John Mullins. Mullins presented the Shooks with a certificate for a Taylor King reclining chair of their choice. Taylor King launched a new line of upper end reclining chairs that received rave reviews at this past October International Home Furnishings Market. Mullins also recognized three employees that have been a part of Taylor King since its infancy. Assistant Plant Manager Terry Shook, Product Development Assistant Judy Hammer and Director of Marketing Tanya Comer are lifetime employees. Tanya is also the daughter of founder Herman Shook. As a part of the celebration, all employees enjoyed a buffet lunch by Myra's Catering of Valdese, NC and received a 30th anniversary commemorative gift. After the luncheon, the company sponsored a unique fundraising event to kickoff Taylor King’s annual support of the United Way Fund campaign. Each employee had the opportunity to send CEO John Mullins, CFO Ron Downs, and President Del Starnes to the bottom of a water-filled dunking booth. One dollar earned an individual the chance for three throws. Gail Drum, executive director of Alexander County United Way, was on hand to gladly collect the proceeds that will benefit the needs of many local organizations. Mullins best summed up the day’s festivities by commenting, "The past three decades have been a prosperous and enjoyable time for our company, and we look forward to another great thirty years."