In the dynamic home furnishings industry, excellence shines through industry professionals’ dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment. The Home Furnishings Association’s (HFA) Retailer of the Year Awards serve as a beacon, illuminating the remarkable achievements within this vibrant sector. As we applaud the HFA winners of 2024, it’s not merely about honoring individuals and organizations but celebrating the collective spirit of excellence that propels the industry forward.
The 2024 HFA Retailer of the Year winners were recognized for their diverse talents, achievements, and contributions that shape the home furnishings landscape. Let’s take a moment to highlight each of the distinguished winners:
Raymour & Flanigan – Retailer of the Year (over 50 employees): With a legacy spanning decades, Raymour & Flanigan won this award partly for their focus on personalized recruitment, comprehensive training, and employee development. Their strong company culture values teamwork and innovation, while exceptional customer service and social responsibility initiatives contribute to their success. Their engagement in community involvement and social responsibility initiatives, such as environmental sustainability and promoting diversity and equity among associates, demonstrates their dedication to positive change. Notable achievements showcase their success, such as being named a Great Place to Work for six consecutive years and receiving recognition on Newsweek’s lists.
Mueller Furniture and Mattress – Retailer of the Year (under 50 employees): Mueller Furniture’s legacy is rooted in its 100-year history of providing quality American-made furniture and exceptional customer service. This family business has thrived through four generations by prioritizing core values such as honesty, integrity, and personalized service. Their long-standing commitment to supporting the community and maintaining a strong reputation for quality has allowed them to evolve and adapt. This resilience and dedication have enabled Mueller Furniture to withstand economic challenges and industry changes, continuing to serve customers and maintain a trusted presence in the St. Louis area.
J.B. Hunt – Partner of the Year: Collaboration lies at the heart of success, and J.B. Hunt exemplifies the spirit of partnership. Their exceptional company culture focuses on trust, integrity, and employee contributions. J.B. Hunt concentrates on innovative logistics solutions, and its dedication to customer value and commitment to social responsibility have made it an invaluable partner. Through cutting-edge technology and sustainability initiatives, they consistently meet the dynamic needs of the home furnishings industry.
Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC – Manufacturer of the Year: Ashley Furniture Industries won the HFA 2024 Manufacturer of the Year award for its strong company culture focused on investing in employees and developing leaders, which drives its continuous improvement and innovation. Ashley’s emphasis on customer-centric service, efficient logistics, and strategic marketing has contributed to its sustained success and positive impact in the home furnishings industry.
Jeff Child – Trailblazer: In a world where innovation is paramount, trailblazers like Jeff Child light the way forward. His visionary leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and willingness to challenge the status quo inspire others to push boundaries and redefine possibilities. As president of RC Willey, he expanded the company’s operations and increased sales volume remarkably. His ability to steer the company through economic challenges such as recessions and the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrates his resilience and strategic vision. Furthermore, his active involvement in the leadership of industry associations and commitment to philanthropy highlights his dedication to advancing the industry and supporting his community. For these reasons, he deserves the distinction of HFA Trailblazer of the Year.
Shane Pohlman—Emerging Star: Shane Pohlman embodies exceptional leadership and innovation in the home furnishings industry. As Director of Furniture for Nebraska Furniture Mart (NFM) since 2018, Pohlman has successfully guided buying teams through challenges like supply chain constraints and achieved financial goals. His focus on strategic relationships, the successful launch of a Product Information Manager (PIM), and his dedication to sustainability and social responsibility have significantly impacted the industry. Pohlman’s commitment to excellence and collaborative approach makes him stand out as an emerging star.
Every winner is a steadfast pillar of excellence, providing a foundation for others to build upon. Their achievements remind us that true success is not just about profits or accolades but about our lasting impact on our industry and the communities we serve.
As we celebrate these remarkable individuals and organizations, let us also reflect on the values they embody – integrity, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. May their success serve as a source of inspiration and motivation for all those who aspire to greatness in the home furnishings industry.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the 2024 HFA Retailer of the Year winners. Your achievements are a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and collaboration, and we eagerly anticipate the continued success and innovation you will bring to our industry in the years to come. Cheers to excellence!
