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Markor Acquires A.R.T. Furniture
March 28,
2011 by in UnCategorized 
By Home Furnishings Business in Acquisition on March 29, 2011
Markor International Furniture Co. Ltd. has acquired
A.R.T. Furniture Inc.
"This furthers what has been an exclusive supply distribution agreement between the two companies to the next level," said Edward Grund, A.R.T.s C.E.O. A.R.T. now joins
Schnadig International Corp. as a part of Markors International Business Division, headed by Howard Pan, previously president of Schnadig.
The company also announced that effective April 2, Grund will assume the role of chairman emeritus, and Jeffrey L. Cook will be promoted to C.E.O.
Cook, who joined A.R.T. as president in January, previously served as president of
Broyhill Furniture Inds. His past experience also includes serving as president and chief executive officer of
Magnussen Home Furnishings; vice president of sales and marketing of Sumter Cabinet Company; executive vice president of sales and marketing of
Lea Inds.; and senior vice president of sales and marketing of Design Horizons.
"From Jeffs broad range of experience with privately and publicly owned companies, he brings a deep understanding of the stages required to manage sustained double-digit growth," Grund said. "He has worked in the implementation of a wide variety of business processes, systems and models, which will be invaluable as he takes A.R.T. to the next level."
"Despite the economy, A.R.T. is in an enviable position of growth while being backed by the financial strength, manufacturing capabilities and logistics infrastructure of Markor. The brand has a solid reputation for great product offering superior value, consistent quality and flexible delivery options," Cook said. "Were also blessed with a business model and parent company that can provide us the support, resources and capabilities to maintain an unrelenting focus on meeting and exceeding the needs and expectations of our dealers.
"My focus will be on broadening our style and price points and managing growth so that we remain nimble in identifying and addressing opportunities in the marketplace while keeping the backend of our business in alignment," he said. "If we do this, we will be an even more successful company."
Grund will continue to work with Markor International Furniture, the parent company, to play a significant role in the supply chain relationship management.