Ernst & Young Honors Art Van for Lifetime Achievement

June 15, 2011  by in UnCategorized   

By Home Furnishings Business in Furniture Retailing on June 16, 2011

Art Van Elslander, founder and chairman of Art Van Furniture, has received the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year 2011 Lifetime Achievement Award.

It is the first time the honor has ever been awarded in the Michigan and Northwest Ohio division. The award recognizes outstanding entrepreneurs who consistently demonstrate excellence and extraordinary success. Van Elslander was selected by an independent panel of judges, and the award was presented at a gala event at the MGM Grand on June 9.

"It's always nice to be recognized for your work," said Van Elslander, who has been in business for 52 years, "but when that recognition comes from your peers, it is a true honor. The key to our success has been our unmatched customer service. We always put the customer first, and do whatever it takes to make sure they are satisfied."

Art Van opened his first store in 1959, with a philosophy that is still the foundation of store operations today--quality furniture, great prices, high standards of service. He was honored with the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Lifetime Achievement award for more than 50 years of business success and contributions to the community.

The Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards Program celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, with Van Elslander being the first in Michigan and Ohio to be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award.