Daily News

From Home Furnishing Business

Next Gen Day Set for High Point Market

September 23, 2013  by in High Point, Market   

Hosted by North American Home Furnishings Association, High Point Market Authority, High Point University and Ashley Furniture Inds., this free event features a full day of activity focused around broadening the participation and interest of the next generation in the home furnishings industry.

“As the home furnishings’ industry association, it is our responsibility to encourage young people to join our industry and to provide them with the opportunities to learn and engage with each other," said NAHFA CEO Sharron Bradley. "Close peer relationships have been the foundation of our industry and one of the best ways for our next generation to acquire the knowledge to make them a success. By hosting events such as these we are supporting our future leaders and the health and success of our industry.”

The event kicks off with a visit to High Point University. HPU motor coaches will shuttle participants to the campus where students will interact with industry professionals to discuss opportunities for careers in the home furnishings industry.

Representatives from influential manufacturers, service providers and national retailers will share their passion for the industry and insights on the diverse opportunities available to graduates and young professionals. HPU students will have time to ask the panel questions about the variety of positions available and help dispel any myths about limited options.

“Ashley is a family owned business that looks forward to the continued growth that new blood and fresh ideas always bring,” said Kerry Lebensburger, president of sales, Ashley Furniture Inds. "With a third-generation member soon to graduate from engineering school, nothing is more satisfying than seeing the younger generation continuing the family traditions."

The shuttles return to market with attendees and HPU students for a lunch, panel discussion and job-shadowing afternoon.

Furniture Today Editor-in-Chief Ray Allegrezza will facilitate “3 Guys and a Mic--Insights and Anecdotes with Industry Icons,” in which well-known panelists will share stories of how they first became involved in the industry as well as triumphs and challenges along the way. A Q&A at the end of the session will provide tips for the next generation to navigate the deep waters of an every-changing business landscape.

“Next Gen is an important organization to be involved in because it helps the future generation build the tools they need to learn today that will shape this industry tomorrow,” said Joey Gunn of Knight Furniture and NGN Advisory Board member. "We all have similar circumstances and challenges in Next Gen, and it's very valuable to learn and grow together; building a support system from within that will set us all up for success."

The day also features additional educational opportunities and a job shadowing component for HPU students as well as young professionals and mentors from all facets of the industry. Market attendees have the option of attending a seminar in the NAHFA’s Retailer Resource Center in Plaza Suites.

“Marketing Strategies for Attracting Gen Y” is offered by event sponsor, MicroD Inc., focusing on today’s savvy shopper. Panelists will answer questions, review strategies, and share business insights that have been successful in reaching this influential demographic. The session will also be broadcast live via the Next Generation Now channels.

“In this inaugural event, we have the opportunity to help shape the future of this industry,” said Tom Conley, president and CEO of the High Point Market Authority. “HPU students will have the opportunity to job shadow members of the Next Gen group through a mentoring program that will give them the chance to visit showrooms and learn more about the industry from a young professional’s viewpoint.”

Next Generation-NOW’s sponsors include benefactor sponsor Ashley Furniture Industries, Coaster Company of America, High Point Market, FurnitureDealer.net, GE Capital, Surya Rugs, and MicroD, Inc. Next Generation-NOW is facilitated by the North American Home Furnishings Association.

To become a sponsor and support this segment of the industry, contact Cindi Williams, NAHFA marketing & events director, by e-mail at cwilliams@nahfa.org; or at 916.960.0277.

For more information or to register online go here.