Server: Netscape-Communications/1.1 Date: Thursday, 18-Dec-97 04:48:13 GMT Last-modified: Wednesday, 21-Aug-96 15:23:17 GMT Content-length: 4210 Content-type: text/html Interface - Interior Fabrics Group Interior Fabrics Group

CONNECTIONS WERE KEY IN MANY FACETS OF INTERFACE'S EXPANDING INTERIOR FABRICS GROUP, LED BY GUILFORD OF MAINE, the premier provider of specialty interior fabrics for open plan office furniture systems, furniture upholstery, wall coverings and window treatments.

Interior Fabrics Group
Panel fabric sales to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) of office furniture systems constitute the majority of the company's interior fabrics revenues, and represent the very core of Guilford's business. Through OEM customers, the group's products also enjoy international distribution and a valued reputation for design sensitivity and dependability.

Renewal programs with OEM customers, begun in 1994, continued over the past year, incorporating strategic investments in product development and growth through acquisitions, and generating new market opportunities in the U.S. and the world over. The Fabric Group's manufacturing facilities also underwent reengineering to enhance their technological capabilities.

Under the leadership of President and Chief Executive Officer Brian DeMoura, a new connection was established in 1995 between the Fabrics Group and Roman-Oakey. Coupled with Guilford's internal capabilities for design and styling leadership, Roman-Oakey's styling influence further reinforced the company's preeminent position in the industry. This was accomplished primarily by increasing flexibility in both product offerings and delivery times. Together with the synergistic acquisitions of Toltec Fabrics and Intek to better serve the contract market, DeMoura's reenergized team streamlined operations and service strategies, reaching new heights in product quality, product innovation, and commitment to superior customer service.

Toltec Fabrics, specializing in high end jacquard fabrics, especially for the rapidly growing healthcare and jobber segments of the market, joined the Interface family in June. Toltec is exceptionally complementary to Guilford of Maine. Before year end, Interface, through Guilford, also acquired the Intek division of Springs Industries, which is wholly dedicated to the contract industry. Another exceptional fit, Intek brings capabilities for lighter weight, piece dyed fabrics which enhance the Fabrics Group's position as a one stop provider of quality products for the office furniture industry.

Continued growth opportunities are also expected for the Fabrics Group in 1996, particularly with OEM customers and within the expanding commercial retrofit market where existing furniture panel systems are recycled and refurbished. Internationally, the healthcare and contract wallcovering markets provide further attractive opportunities for growth.

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