ARLINGTON, VA – The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association has hired a new president and CEO. After an extensive search, the HPBA search committee unanimously selected Jill McClure to replace Jack Goldman, who retired after 22 years with the organization.

Jill McClure joins HPBA after serving as CEO for the Association of Progressive Rental Organizations since 2017. She led external outreach and internal operations for the national retail trade association, including the convention & trade show, PAC, charitable foundation, and award-winning magazine. Previously, McClure served as COO of the Colorado Oil & Gas Association and as collaboration lead for the…

WADENA, MN — Homecrest Outdoor Living has added Joi Flanigan as director of Retail Sales. Flanigan will work remotely from her home in Orange County, CA to oversee all aspects of retail sales for the company’s network of representatives across the United States and Canada.

Flanigan joins Homecrest with 18 years of management experience in the outdoor furniture industry, and an additional 10 years in sales leadership. Flanigan’s extensive background and industry knowledge will help lead the company to generate growth and increased sales.

“Joi has a high standard of excellence and an unwavering focus on and commitment…

HIGH POINT, N.C. – American Ninja Warrior competitor and host Alex Weber will deliver the opening keynote address on March 1 at the International Casual Furnishings Association 2023 Educational Conference in Nashville. His talk to the membership will identify behaviors to perform at the highest levels with inspiring stories and actionable strategies. In addition, all attendees will receive a copy of his hardcover book, “Fail Proof: Become the Unstoppable You.”

Weber’s presentation will kick off two full days of programming at the Grand Hyatt Nashville that features a variety of expert speakers, breakout sessions and roundtable discussions. With more than…

SYRACUSE, IN - POLYWOOD, maker of outdoor furniture made from sustainable landfill-bound and ocean-bound plastics, has opened an 11,000-square-foot showroom in Americas Mart.

To celebrate the first market in its new space, POLYWOOD hosted a cocktail party on Thursday, January 12th from 3-5 pm. The space will be open Monday through Friday year-round to the trade.

Lindsay Schleis, VP of Business Development at POLYWOOD explains what this new flagship showroom will offer and how it will benefit specialty retailers and designers: “With 11,000 square feet of space, we’re thrilled to be able to permanently showcase the largest display we’ve…

Jensen Outdoor has elevated Eric Parsons to president of the company. Eric has been with Jensen Outdoor for four years, serving as vice president and playing a key role in the leadership team.

In his time at Jensen Outdoor, Eric has helped to transform the product range into a more style-forward offering, add process and efficiency improvements across the operation, and more than double the sales output of the company. Eric assumes his responsibilities as of January 10, 2023.

“I am honored to be appointed as President of Jensen Outdoor and humbled by the confidence that ownership has in…

HIGH POINT, N.C. – As president and CEO of Watson’s and founder and CEO of Plank & Hide Co., Erik Mueller brings a unique perspective to his new role as chair of the Board of Directors of the International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA). “As a dedicated ambassador for our wonderful industry, my objectives are to increase awareness, drive interest and heighten the value of membership,” said Mueller.

Erik’s tenure in 2023 features several milestones, including celebrating the organization’s 65th anniversary and the relocation of the Casual Market from Chicago to Atlanta this July. “These events highlight the significance of our…

FORT LEE, N.J. – What has become a hallmark within the area rug industry, Couristan is set to launch its fourth edition of its popular series of Area Rug Trend Report videos. A product preview, marketing, social media initiative program that was established in 2018, the Trend Reports have quickly become a valuable resource for designers and key retail segments.   

Transcending previous videos, the company invites viewers to take another journey with them to a part of our country that truly depicts the five key trends that they have identified for the year ahead within the home furnishing…

LAS VEGAS - The 2022 International Pool | Spa | Patio Expo™, co-located with Deck Expo (PSP/Deck Expo) concluded its 65th annual event. The excitement from the show floor was palpable with an over 40% increase in professionals in attendance from last year.

The event, put on by Informa Markets, the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA), and the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA®), was November 15-17 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. With over 10,000 registered professionals, the event connected notable and emergent brands with thousands of buyers, while providing ample networking opportunities and a full…