Industry Veterans Create International Rug Group

July 7, 2015  by in Carpets / Rugs, Product   

Led by industry veterans Mark Bannon, Larry Hedrick, Eric Rowles and Daniel Webb, IRG offers a variety of services including licensed in-store rug galleries, rug import and distribution, Web development and e-commerce solutions, consulting and high-impact stores events. 

Currently, the company operates four full-service rug galleries in Indiana and Ohio in conjunction with Kittle's Furniture.

“It's just a smart business move to host the IRG program and team here at Kittle’s Furniture,” said Kittle's CEO Eric Easter. “IRG is cutting-edge, relevant and have brought a new level of product and excitement to our business.” 

Bannon, IRG president and CEO, brings more than 30 years of promotional and retail expertise to the team. Bannon is joined by Hedrick, who also comes with a 30-year-plus career of rug industry experience including retail, import and wholesale distribution while serving in positions at Mohawk,  Karastan, Oriental Weavers and Rizzy Rugs. 

Rowles is the company’s senior vice president of sales and new business development. His background includes a variety of positions with furniture an drug suppliers and retailers, including Patusan Trading,  Stickley Furniture, Hooker Furniture, Boyles Furniture and Planned Furniture Promotions. 

Webb is senior vice president of retail rug galleries, has decades of industry experience while owning and operating his family retail furniture business, as well as engagements with Stickley Furniture and Lynch Sales Co. 

“We are delighted to bring such a diverse and talented team together to serve the ongoing needs of furniture and rug retailers nationwide," Bannon said. “We offer a unique blend of services, products and programs that are custom-tailored to individual retailers, and designed to support and enhance their sales, operations and profitability. We adhere to the highest standard of integrity and respect and have tremendous gratitude for the opportunity to serve the industry we cherish.”

The company is headquartered in Simsbury, Conn., and is managed by Ashley Murphy, vice president of operations. Product curation and design is coordinated by Molly Gibson Mays. 

“There is a new paradigm in the industry, and to be relevant and successful today, we need to be forward-thinking, creative and laser-focused,” said Rowles.