More important, what should they do? At a peer group meeting of eight successful construction industry CEOs years ago, the members began discussing how to get the most out of an industry standard software package. One CEO asked another a question about how to key in data to produce a
For many independent furniture retailers, succession planning is more complex than expected. The next generation often chooses different careers; employees rarely have the vendor credit support to carry on, and outside buyers may not value the business the way the owner does. Understanding the realities of exit strategies — and
“We need to talk.” Those four words can be intimidating in any relationship. In family-run furniture businesses, they can feel even heavier—especially when what you need to say is: “Mom, Dad, I’m ready to lead.” For decades, your parents have poured their energy into building the store, the brand, and
Longevity is one of the most defining shifts of our time. Americans are living longer, healthier lives than ever before, and that reality is reshaping how family-owned and closely held businesses must approach succession planning, leadership, and financial planning for home furnishings retailers, in particular, where family involvement runs deep
Strengthen Your Business While Preserving Family Harmony Compensation planning in a retail furniture business often feels more like an art than a science. You’re balancing the need to motivate and retain top talent—family and non-family—while ensuring the business remains profitable. For family-owned furniture retailers, the conversation becomes even more layered.
Defining Roles, Purpose, and a Path to Leadership Bringing a son, daughter, or younger family member into your retail furniture business can be rewarding and challenging. There’s pride in continuing the family legacy and hope in watching a new generation step forward. But without the right structure, what starts with
As a retailer, you’ve dedicated years, if not decades, to building a business you can be proud of. You’ve curated products, fostered customer relationships, and navigated the ever-changing tides of the market. But what happens to your legacy when you’re ready to retire or, heaven forbid, something unexpected happens? If
HFA Chief HR Strategist, Tracy Jackson, gives you simple steps to ensure you are building a solid bench of leaders for your succession planning.
In the home furnishings industry, retailers and manufacturers are navigating a landscape defined by tightening margins, shifting consumer expectations, and
The furniture industry is entering a new digital era. One where a dining table can be explored in 10 finishes,
Walk into most furniture or mattress stores, and you’ll see beautiful merchandising, strong sales teams, and aggressive promotional signage. But
HFA Announces the 2026 Pillar Award Winners The Home Furnishings Association (HFA) is proud to announce the recipients of the
Why Data-Driven Sourcing Is Becoming Non-Negotiable On April 2, 2025, President Trump announced sweeping new import tariffs that immediately reshaped
AI is no longer just powering search bars and chatbots. New agentic AI experiences are changing how shoppers discover, evaluate, and buy products online. For
Join Peter Theran and Steve Fodor, LCB, MCS, Founder and CEO of Customs Services & Solutions, for a practical discussion on IEEPA tariffs, refund developments,
MEMBER-ONLY DISCUSSION: eCommerce Connect with fellow HFA member retailers to exchange insights, challenges, and successes in navigating family business dynamics.
