Levitz Furniture Names New Divisional Merchandise Managers

Furniture World Magazine

Levitz Furniture, a leading specialty retailer of furniture, bedding and home furnishings, announced the appointments of two Divisional Merchandise Managers as the Company’s new management team continues to energize one of the industry’s great consumer brands. Carol Glaser has been named Divisional Merchandise Manager, Furnishings, joining Levitz Furniture after 18 years in a variety of roles at Fortunoff of Westbury, NY. In her new role, Glaser will lead a staff dedicated to working with the Company’s trade partners to enhance the core merchandise assortment that Levitz delivers to its customers. David Wallens has been appointed Divisional Merchandise Manager, Work & Play and Accessories, re-joining the Company after serving as Lighting Buyer for Bed Bath & Beyond. Wallens will oversee a category that includes home accents, home office and other areas. Both report to Chris Pelcher, Senior Vice President, Merchandising. “We’re working hard to restore confidence and build strong relationships with our trade partners that will help us deliver on our commitment to provide Levitz customers with a superior shopping experience,” said Tom Baumlin, CEO, Levitz Furniture. “Carol and David both bring exceptional experience to our company and will play important roles as we build a new Levitz Furniture focused on delivering the best selections, service and experience to our customers.” Glaser brings a wealth of fashion home furnishings experience to Levitz, having served as Buyer, Comforters, Sheets and Decorative Pillows at Fortunoff, where she was responsible for merchandising, buying and sourcing the entire bed linen category, including sheets, comforters, designer brands, quilts, decorative pillows trend shops and accent furniture. Earlier in her career at Fortunoff, Glaser was Buyer, Wall Décor and Accent Furniture, and Assistant Buyer, Furniture and Area Rugs. She began her tenure at Fortunoff as Department Manager, responsible for the towel department. Wallens, who previously held the position of Buyer, Bedroom, Dining Room, Dinettes and Walls at Levitz from 2004-2005, also brings significant experience in the categories he will manage. He most recently worked at Bed Bath & Beyond as Buyer, Lighting. From 2000-2004, Wallens was Senior Assistant Buyer, Outdoor Furniture, at Fortunoff. He began his career as an Administrative Assistant in the Fireplace/Outdoor Furniture Department at Fortunoff. About Levitz Furniture Levitz Furniture is a leading specialty retailer of furniture, bedding and home furnishings in the United States with 78 locations in major metropolitan areas, principally in the Northeast and on the West Coast of the United States as well as its presence on e-commerce site, www.furniture.com. Additional information about the Company and its brands is available at www.levitz.com.