April 3,
2017 by Larry Thomas in Economic News, Industry 
Furniture isn't the only sector of the durable goods category that has seen price erosion in recent years, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Televisions and personal computers, in fact, have recorded steeper price declines than furniture since 2010, even though the cost of using those devices has gone up.
April 3,
2017 by Larry Thomas in Business Strategy, Industry
Retailer Conn's Inc. (NYSE: CONN) said it has signed a three-year agreement with Progressive Leasing, a subsidiary of Aaron's Inc. (NYSE: AAN), that will offer lease-to-own payment options for customers who don't qualify for Conn's traditional credit program.
April 3,
2017 by Larry Thomas in Industry, Mattresses, Product, Web Retail
Bedding producer Restonic has overhauled its retailer toolbox, BrandCentral.com, to make it easier to navigate from mobile devices and deliver what the company calls "an Amazon-esque, mobile responsive digital shopping experience."
March 31,
2017 by Larry Thomas in Economic News, Industry
Leather upholstery major Natuzzi (NYSE: NTZ) said worldwide sales fell 6.4% in the 2016 calendar year, but the company slashed its net loss by more than half due to operational improvements that boosted gross margins.
March 31,
2017 by Larry Thomas in Business Strategy, Designer Weekly, Industry
Fabric suppliers Robert Allen and Duralee announced Friday they have merged and formed a new company called Robert Allen Duralee Group.
March 31,
2017 by Larry Thomas in Business Strategy, Economic News, Industry
Furniture factory orders in January were essentially even with January 2016, but shipments for the first month of 2017 were up 2%, according to the latest monthly survey from the accounting and consulting firm Smith Leonard.
March 31,
2017 by Larry Thomas in Business Strategy, Designer Weekly, High Point, Industry, Market
High-end case goods and upholstery producer EJ Victor has signed a licensing agreement with Perennials Fabrics, a high-end performance fabrics supplier, and will unveil a licensed upholstery collection at the April High Point Market.