AHFA Summit To Address Key Issues For US Furniture Manufacturers

Furniture World Magazine

According to the American Home Furnishings Alliance, despite intense global competition, some companies continue to identify important manufacturing opportunities in the United States. AHFA’s says that their 2008 Manufacturing Summit is designed to help these companies address the key challenges of domestic production and grow their businesses. Slated June 17-18 at the Embassy Suites-Airport in Greensboro, N.C., the event opens with a reception at 6 p.m. June 17, followed by a full day of programming on June 18. Registration will begin at 8:30 a.m. on June 18. Kicking off the business session is “Market Opportunities for Domestic Manufacturers,” presented by Joe Carroll, publisher of Furniture/Today. Jerry Epperson, managing partner with Mann Armistead & Epperson, will follow with “A Look at Domestic Furniture Manufacturing.” With Carroll’s marketing perspective and Epperson’s statistical and business overview, attendees will receive a fresh take on ways domestic furniture manufacturers can grow their businesses. A panel discussion will conclude the morning with a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities facing domestic suppliers. Participants include Randy Ford, president of Leggett & Platt Home Furnishings Component Group; Jeff Matuszak, vice president of Moncure Plywood; and Dwayne Welch, executive vice president, Hickory Springs Manufacturing. Following lunch, Jim Wimberly, a principal in the law firm of Wimberly, Lawson, Steckel, Schneider & Stein, P.C., will provide an overview of current labor concerns for domestic employers, while Bill Perdue, vice president at the American Home Furnishings Alliance, will address key compliance issues. “Making It in the U.S.A.,” presented by Jay Reardon, president of Hickory Chair Company, will conclude the meeting by bringing attendees real-world examples of successful strategies from a leading company that has invested significant resources in maintaining domestic production. Hotel accommodations should be made by contacting the Embassy Suites directly at 336/668-4535 and mentioning the meeting code “AHF.” Registration includes the June 17 reception, as well as breakfast, lunch, breaks and program materials on June 18. The cost for AHFA members is $60; the non-member cost is $250. Online registration is available at www.ahfa.us, or call 336/884-5000. The American Home Furnishings Alliance – located in High Point, N.C., and Washington, D.C. – works to promote the growth and global leadership of its member companies, including more than 240 leading furniture manufacturers and distributors, plus about 200 suppliers to the furniture industry worldwide.