WHFA Conference Attracts 300

Furniture World Magazine

The Western Home Furnishings Association (WHFA) recently concluded their very successful 2007 Conference & Tradeshow, May 6-8, at the Hyatt Grand Champions Resort in Indian Wells, located just minutes from Palm Springs. This year’s Conference attracted nearly 300 attendees throughout the United States to attend premiere educational workshops facilitated by top industry speakers and experience the information-packed industry tradeshow. Conference attendees selected from 13 educational workshops and breakout sessions designed to motivate, energize and inspire leadership. Highlights included the Sunday opening night reception featuring dining action stations, the all-new “Chuck-a-Duck” contest and the always popular, crowd favorite “Dance Heads.” The annual golf tournament, shopping escapade excursion and Breakfast at Tiffany’s event, all contributed to the social and networking aspect of conference. The Retailer-to-Retailer Roundtables, a runaway hit of the event, provided an intimate atmosphere for an exchange of best ideas and solutions, moderated by Ron Wolinsky of Profitability Consulting. This unique opportunity provided 90 minutes of shoulder-to-shoulder interaction with the best in the business. Attendees flocked to this year’s industry tradeshow to see WHFA’s one-stop, information-packed site filled with 39 exhibitors. Retailers explored new products and services while taking advantage of the opportunity to speak one-on-one with industry experts eager to discuss the retailer’s needs and future plans. As the Conference wrapped up on Tuesday, May 8th, attendees were once again invited to join in the exclusive WHFA Retailer of the Year award Gala Event. Guests of honor were 2007 winners Philip Linder, CEO, and Eric Foucrier, President, of the Linder Furniture Family comprised of Linder’s Furniture, Legacy Home Furnishings and Rooms Express. Selected for their contributions to the home furnishings industry, service to their community, their personal business achievements and leadership of their company, Foucrier and Linder were presented with this prestigious award by Howard Haimsohn, WHFA Board Member. “I am proud to be a part of such a wonderful organization as the WHFA. I would like to congratulate and thank all of our sponsors, members and guests, for such a wonderful Conference. It was one of the best I’ve attended! It only underlines the need and value that come from working together,” said Sharron Bradley, WHFA Executive Director. Conference attendees now have their sights set on their 2008 conference destination of Tucson, Arizona. For more information, please contact WHFA at 800.422.3778.