by For those of you who know me, you know I currently wear two hats — one as the director of content and events for the International Home Furnishings Representatives Association and the other as editor-at-large for Home News Now.
If you will allow me, I would like to wear both hats as I write this column. We are literally just a few weeks away from ushering in a new year and a new administration at the White House.
A new year invariably will bring both new opportunities and new challenges. Meanwhile, President-elect Trump has promised significant changes to existing government policies.
Taken together, I am betting that the one constant in 2025 will be change, and lots of it.
Speaking of change, I am remembering a keynote speaker I heard years ago who had this to say about change: “Those of you who dislike change are really going to hate extinction.”
I found myself wondering what one tool in our toolbox might be the most useful in helping us build successful businesses in the midst of massive changes.
I concluded that I would pick up the tool called innovation and use it tirelessly. Rather than let external change define my business, I would proactively change my business model myself.
The good news here is that we are an industry of innovators.
As part of our ongoing efforts to recognize and celebrate excellence and innovation in the furniture industry, we are reaching out to key industry participants like yourself to help identify the most innovative players across three important areas:
+ Furniture Manufacturers and Designers — companies pushing the boundaries of design, materials and production methods to create exceptional products.
+ Furniture Retailers — businesses that are revolutionizing the customer experience, from in-store displays to e-commerce strategies and beyond.
+ Furniture Representatives — individuals or teams who have demonstrated exceptional creativity and leadership in promoting and advocating for innovative products within the market.
Your insights and expertise would be invaluable in helping us spotlight those who are driving meaningful change in the industry. If you are aware of any manufacturers, retailers or representatives who stand out for their innovation, please email me at ray@homenewsnow.com.
To help me in the identification process, I would respectfully ask that you provide me with the names of companies or individuals who you believe deserve recognition, along with a brief description of the innovative contributions they’ve made.
Thank you for taking the time to share your recommendations and for your continued support of our industry. I look forward to your input and to collectively celebrating the groundbreaking advancements that continue to shape our field.
Warmest regards,
Ray Allegrezza
For the first time in 50 years in the furniture industry, I was a buyer and for my own personal use. The company that really captured my attention was Rowe Furniture. I was taken around by the president Bobby Robinson who is also an old friend. Almost everything had some kind of excitement to it. Rowe gets it and is run by young men and women that will change the face of the upholstery business.