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Pillar Awards

2026 NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN!

Honoring Excellence in the Home Furnishings Industry

The Home Furnishings Association Pillar Awards honor the individuals and companies who exemplify innovation, leadership, and service within our industry. Formerly known as the Retailer of the Year Awards, the Pillar Awards shine a spotlight on outstanding achievement across multiple categories—recognizing those who inspire excellence and help drive the home furnishings industry forward.

Nominated by peers and evaluated by an expert panel, the awards celebrate excellence in four distinct categories: Retailer of the Year, Trailblazer of the Year, Emerging Star of the Year, and Partner of the Year.

Nominated by the industry

Here’s your chance to nominate a retailer for our industry’s most prestigious awards. Whether you’re a manufacturer, industry rep, or employee – we want to hear from you. Retailers are judged by a panel of industry leaders, industry media, retired professionals, and past winners.

Customer Experience
5/5
Company Culture
5/5
Social Responsibility
5/5
Innovation
5/5
Adaptability
5/5
Industry Contribution
5/5
Marketing
5/5
Achievements
5/5

2026 Categories

Retailer of the Year

50 Employees & Above

Retailer of the Year

Below 50 Employees

Emerging Star

Rising industry professional (3-5 years of experience)

Trailblazer

20+ Years Exemplary Business

Partner of the Year

HFA Solution Partner with outstanding service to members
Nominations are open until October 31, 2025

2025 Award Winners

Retailer of the Year - Lacks Furniture

Over 50 Employees
Lacks Furniture stands out for its commitment to creating exceptional customer experiences and fostering a workplace culture rooted in innovation and teamwork. Known for its adaptability and dedication to excellence, Lacks has continuously raised the bar in the home furnishings industry. Their efforts in combining cutting-edge technology with personalized customer service have earned them this well-deserved recognition.

Retailer of the Year - Saundra's Furniture and Design

Under 50 Employees
Saundra’s Furniture embodies the spirit of a family-owned business that thrives on strong community ties and unparalleled customer service. By emphasizing craftsmanship, personalization, and an unwavering commitment to quality, Saundra’s has earned a loyal customer base and the admiration of peers. Their dedication to growth and innovation, while staying true to their roots, has secured them the Retailer of the Year award for businesses under 50 employees.

HFA Trailblazer Award - Todd Wanek, Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC

Todd Wanek’s visionary leadership has propelled Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC to new heights. As a trailblazer, Todd has consistently driven innovation and set new industry standards. His emphasis on sustainability, adaptability, and creating value for customers and stakeholders alike has earned him widespread respect and recognition. Under his leadership, Ashley continues to push boundaries and shape the future of the home furnishings industry.

HFA Emerging Star - Elizabeth Ann Howell, Miskelly Furniture

Elizabeth Ann Howell has proven to be a rising star in the home furnishings industry. Her innovative approaches to leadership, strategic vision, and dedication to team development have positioned her as a force to be reckoned with. Elizabeth’s efforts to blend traditional values with modern strategies exemplify what it means to be a trailblazer for the next generation of industry leaders.
Howard and Julie Haimsohn
Trailblazer cake photo
Lawrance Furniture_Haimsohn Family photo
Lawrance Furniture Team photo

HFA Partner of the Year - Synchrony

Synchrony has been a game-changer in providing consumer finance solutions tailored to the needs of the home furnishings industry. Their ability to simplify the purchasing process and enhance customer satisfaction has made them a vital partner for retailers. Synchrony’s focus on innovation and strategic collaboration has transformed how businesses operate, ensuring they stay competitive in a dynamic marketplace.

HFA Manufacturer of the Year - SURYA, Inc.

Surya Inc. has redefined industry standards with its cutting-edge designs and exceptional product quality. Their commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction has made them a leader in the manufacturing sector. Surya’s ability to anticipate and adapt to market trends ensures that their offerings resonate with consumers and retailers alike, making them a deserving recipient of this year’s Manufacturer of the Year award.

PAST WINNERS

2025

Retailer of the Year - Lacks Furniture

Retailer of the Year - Sandra's Furniture and Design

Emerging Star - Elizabeth Ann Howell, Miskelly Furniture

Trailbazer - Todd Wanek, Ashley Furniture Industries

Partner of the Year - Synchrony

Manufacturer of the Year - Surya

2024

Retailer of the Year - Raymour & Flanigan

Retailer of the Year - Mueller Furniture and Mattress

Emerging Star - Shane Pohlman, NFM

Trailbazer - Jeff Child, RC Willey

Partner of the Year - JB Hunt

Manufacturer of the Year - Ashley Furniture Industries

2023

Retailer of the Year - Old Brick Furniture

Retailer of the Year - BILTRITE Furniture

Emerging Star - Matt Pridemore, Badcock Home Furniture & More

Trailbazer - Howard Haimsohn, Lawrance Contemporary Furniture

Partner of the Year - Esquire Advertising

2022

Retailer of the Year - CITY Furniture

Retailer of the Year - Room to Room Furniture

Emerging Star - Eric Beiter, Beiter's Furniture

Trailbazer - Irv Blumkin, Nebraska Furniture Mart (NFM)

Partner of the Year - Podium

2020

Retailer of the Year - Interiors Home

Retailer of the Year - PerLora

Emerging Star - Sydney Harris, Furnitureland South

Trailbazer - Dave Koehler, Johnny Janosik

Partner of the Year - Synchrony

2019

Retailer of the Year - Brakenridge Furniture Co.

Retailer of the Year - Howell Furniture

Emerging Star - Joe Bright, Dunk & Bright Furniture

Trailbazer - Greg Crowley, Crowley Furniture & Mattress