Doug Peppler To Head Agio Sales

Furniture World Magazine

Doug Peppler has been named vice president of sales for Agio International, a prime full-line manufacturer of casual outdoor furniture. In this newly created role, Peppler will lead all sales efforts for Agio’s specialty business, and will report directly to John Oppenheimer, executive vice president of sales and marketing. As Agio broadens its operations, Peppler will focus on increasing market share through patio specialty retailers, furniture retailers, and military exchanges. "I’ve had the good fortune to work with Doug in the past and I know his talent and experience in this industry make him a valued addition to our company," said Oppenheimer. "Bringing Doug on board is part of our strategy to grow our business in the specialty retail marketplace." Peppler brings more than 15 years of extensive casual furniture experience to Agio. Before joining Agio, Peppler served as vice president of sales at Casual Living Worldwide since 1993, where he managed the Shae Designs and Vineyard brands. "I have had the opportunity to work with some of the best domestic outdoor furniture companies and have found that the quality of Agio’s products are second to none," said Peppler. "I’ve also been impressed with Agio’s track record for shipping; and the opportunity to deliver a stylish and high-quality product on time is exciting. Timely shipments will be a key factor in our success as we develop the specialty market." Current plans include developing a line of products exclusively for the specialty trade, a new reserve inventory system and customer service modifications. Agio also is reorganizing its staff to support these new sales initiatives. "We understand that the needs of the specialty retailer are much different than those of the mass merchant," explains Peppler. "We will ensure that our staff understands those needs and is trained properly." Peppler will be based in Ripon, Wisconsin where he resides with his wife and children. About Agio Agio, a brand leader in high-quality patio furniture, was originally founded by Shian International of Hong Kong. Product sales topped $95 million in 2001, through global distribution of extruded aluminum, alumicast, cast aluminum, all-weather wicker and steel patio furniture. Introduced in 1997, the Agio product lines are now manufactured worldwide, with sales and marketing headquarters in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Operational facilities include six manufacturing plants in China and a customer service/warranty and replacement warehouse located in Norfolk, Virginia. For more information, visit www. www.agio-usa.com.