Retail Association Merger Approved

February 21, 2013  by in UnCategorized   

By Home Furnishings Business in Business Strategy on February 22, 2013

The members of the National Home Furnishings Association (NHFA), Western Home Furnishings Association (WHFA) and Home Furnishings Independents Association (HFIA) voted this week to approve the merger of the three organizations.

This vote officially endorses the new alliance, which will serve more than 2,000 corporate entities representing more than 10,000 storefronts.

"We are tremendously excited about this official endorsement by the members," said Sharron Bradley, CEO of the newly formed alliance. "One voice for retailers nationwide will serve to promote and elevate the entire industry."

The merged group, North American Home Furnishings Association, will offer resources to provide increased negotiating power, cost efficiency and industry advocacy. Three offices will serve the organization with locations in the East, West and Central United States.

The effective merger date for the association is May 1. The new organization will launch at the Home Furnishings Industry Conference, June 2-4 in New Orleans. To tout the new Association's official arrival, the organization will be holding special education and networking functions at the June HFIC.

Included in the agenda is a Town Hall session featuring members of the newly appointed board of directors sharing strategies and answering questions. Daily sponsored surprises and a final night masquerade ball makes this a must attend event for the entire industry.

"This conference is an opportunity for members and the industry to be introduced to the North American Home Furnishings Association. Attendees will also learn more about the direction and many benefits of the new organization," Bradley said. "And, a get together in New Orleans can't be anything but fun with lots of opportunities to get to know one another better."