ICFA Releases New Consumer Research
On March 24, 2025, In Industry News by Greg Thompson
HIGH POINT, N.C. – The International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA) today published its annual 2025 Outdoor Living Trend Report.
The report includes the results of a new consumer survey and details on the latest product introductions by furniture manufacturers.
The research, conducted independently by Wakefield Research, revealed that 77 percent of consumers do not spend as much time outside at home as they would like to, and 54 percent have little or no outdoor furnishings or need to replace everything. Overall, 85% of households have some type of outdoor space, be it a porch, patio, balcony, or deck.…
In Memoriam: Sue Walker
On March 21, 2025, In Industry News by Greg Thompson
Carol “Sue” Walker, born on December 16, 1942, in Henderson, Kentucky, passed away naturally at her residence in Bowling Green on March 19, 2025. Sue was a long time employee of Empire Comfort Systems. Nick Bauer, president of Empire Comfort Systems, Belleville, Illinois, shared the following message with his employees, and asked that his message be shared with other members of the hearth industry.
Team Empire,
I regret to inform you of the passing of Sue Walker. Most of you probably never met Sue since she was based out of Kentucky and was focused on the government affairs side of…
imagine.io Recognized As Top eCommerce 3D Product Visualization Platform
On March 19, 2025, In Industry News by Greg Thompson
AUSTIN, TX — imagine.io has been recognized as the Top eCommerce 3D Product Visualization Platform for 2025 by Retail Tech Insights. This award underscores imagine.io’s commitment to driving innovation in digital commerce and enhancing the online shopping experience through cutting-edge 3D visualization technology.
“We are glad to announce imagine.io as the Top eCommerce 3D Product Visualization Platform for 2025,” said Justin Smith, managing editor of Retail Tech Insights. “imagine.io is redefining 3D content creation with a no-code, web-based platform designed for speed and efficiency. Businesses and creators can generate hyper-realistic renders, interactive product configurators, and immersive AR experiences in…
American Fire Products Celebrates 20 Years With New Rebrand
On March 19, 2025, In Industry News by Greg Thompson
LAKE ELSINORE, CA—To celebrate 20 years of innovation, growth, and industry leadership, American Fire Glass is rebranding to American Fire Products. This milestone honors two decades of success and signals the company’s evolution from a fire glass pioneer into a comprehensive manufacturer/distributor of fire pit burners, electronic ignition systems, and fire pit accessories.
“Fire glass was where we started, but today, we are so much more than that,” said Matt Doll, founder and CEO of American Fire Products. “Our new name better represents the full range of high-quality fire products we offer. We provide everything from the gas line…
In Memory: Victoria Echols
On March 17, 2025, In Industry News by Greg Thompson
Dear Casual Furnishings Industry,
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved association member, Victoria Echols.
Victoria’s impact on our industry was nothing short of extraordinary, both professionally and personally. She was a true leader, mentor, and advocate, always pushing for growth and excellence. Her contributions extended far beyond her own success; she actively uplifted those around her, ensuring that every voice was heard and every opportunity was shared.
Beyond her professional achievements, Victoria was a beacon of support and encouragement. She had an incredible ability to make everyone feel valued, offering guidance, mentorship,…
Ultrafabrics Introduces New Director of Merchandising
On March 17, 2025, In Industry News by Greg Thompson
NEW YORK, N.Y. – Ultrafabrics has appointed a new director of Merchandising, Kimberle Frost. With a rich background in textile design and color consultation spanning over 30 years, Frost has successfully collaborated with esteemed brands while receiving numerous industry awards for her innovative contributions.
Frost’s impressive portfolio includes collaborations with notable companies such as Mayer Fabrics, Maharam, Designtex, and Robert Allen, among others. Throughout her career, she has received several prestigious awards, including the Best of Year Award from Interior Design Magazine and recognition from Metropolis Magazine. Prior to joining the Ultrafabrics team, Frost worked as an independent consultant for…
Bernhardt To Debut New Showroom Building in April
On March 12, 2025, In Industry News by Greg Thompson
LENOIR, N.C. – Bernhardt will debut a modern new home for the spring High Point Market (April 26-30). Bernhardt will unveil a cutting-edge and contemporary renovation of the two-story freestanding building at 101 N. Hamilton Street in High Point’s Design District.
Alex Bernhardt, Jr., president and CEO of Bernhardt, was instrumental in the creation of the new space, and he says the showroom highlights Bernhardt’s dedication to creativity and design. “This new showroom is much more authentic to our brand aesthetic and every part of it, from the exterior to each interior room, showcases our passion for design,” he…
Outer Debuts New Adirondack
On March 11, 2025, In Industry News by Greg Thompson
First invented in 1903, the Adirondack chair has been a backyard staple for over a century. But while its classic design is iconic, it’s not exactly comfortable. After years of testing and refinement, Outer’s Founder & Chief Design Officer Terry Lin set out to change that—reimagining the beloved chair with modern comfort, durability, and sleek design in mind.
Enter the NEW Ascent Adirondack Collection: a fresh take on an outdoor classic, built to last a lifetime. Featuring Outer’s signature minimalist aesthetic and engineered for relaxation, this collection offers a fully customizable Adirondack Chair, an optional Ottoman, and the OuterWeave® Cushion…
