Importers invited to join renamed industry group

Staff -- Casual Living, 1/1/2005 12:00:00 AM

Importers will be able to join the American Home Furnishings Alliance, a new name for the American Furniture Manufacturers Association.

Previously, to be eligible for membership, companies were required to have a manufacturing facility in the United States. Now the trade group will welcome any company that makes or imports home furnishings for wholesale distribution.

AHFA CEO Andy Counts said the new organization reflects the business models many member companies have adopted in recent years.

A marketing campaign celebrating the organization's first 100 years and highlighting the approved changes will be launched this month.

The Summer and Casual Furniture Manufacturers Association had voted in May to admit companies that produce overseas. SCFMA Executive Director Joseph P. Logan said the change showed members recognized the industry has become a global marketplace.