ICFA Expands Presence At Casual Show

Furniture World Magazine

The International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA) announced that it plans to expand its presence at this year’s International Causal Furniture and Accessories Market in Chicago with its first-ever exhibition space. The exhibition space will be located on the eighth floor of the Merchandise Mart, Booth #4016. “This is an exciting time in the evolution of the ICFA, and we wanted to have a place where both current and prospective members could come to learn more about the association and the benefits of membership,” said Joe Logan, Executive Director of the ICFA. The ICFA was created earlier this year from what was formerly the Summer and Casual Furniture Manufacturers Association (SCFMA). The objective was to create a broader, more inclusive organization that would embrace all key partners within the casual furnishings industry. In mid-August, the Casual Furniture Retailers Association (CFR) Board of Directors voted unanimously to integrate into the ICFA. On September 14, the CFR will hold a membership meeting to vote on the board’s recommendation. In addition to retailers, current membership in the ICFA also includes leaders from industry manufacturers, importers, sales representatives, designers, suppliers, and the media. “Our mission is to create the desire for quality outdoor furnishings through partnerships in the industry,” said Logan. “We felt the best way to be successful was to open membership to everyone involved in the casual furnishings industry.” “We want to provide tools for our members that will help them stay at the leading edge of a competitive market,” continued Logan. “Member benefits will include negotiated discount programs in the areas of healthcare, discounted freight, and credit card processing, and we have plans to expand these offerings.” The ICFA has reached out to all attendees, inviting them to visit the booth during the market week. Postcards were mailed to all market attendees, and current members will be wearing badges during the market inviting prospective members to also stop by for more information. “We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to the Windy City this month,” said Logan.