HIGH POINT – Rory S. Rehmert, senior vice president of sales at Castelle Furniture Co., is this year’s recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA).
Founded in 2002, the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes outstanding accomplishments and achievements over many years in the outdoor furniture industry. Honorees are identified by their innovative leadership and ideas that advance the growth of the category.
A casual furnishings veteran with more than 40 years of sales and marketing management experience, Rehmert started his casual furniture career at Flower City in Overland Park, Kansas when he was in high school. After graduating from Kansas State University in 1981 with a degree in marketing, he joined Seasonal Concepts (successor to Flower City) and advanced through the store management ranks, culminating at their highest volume store in Atlanta.
In 1987, Winston Furniture recruited him to be the national sales manager for Lyon-Shaw, and he later added Winston Furniture to his responsibilities.
A few years later, Meadowcraft Furniture recruited him to be the vice president of sales and marketing, and he led the company on a 17-year journey of growth.
In 2008, after a senior management change in direction at Meadowcraft, Rehmert was recruited by Pride Family Brands to be the vice president of sales and marketing. In spring 2016, he was named president of the Summer Winds division. Following the acquisition of Pride Family Brands by Brown Jordan, Rehmert was named senior vice president of sales of the newly renamed Castelle Furniture.
Throughout his entire casual industry career, Rehmert has been a dedicated supporter and advocate of the ICFA and its predecessor, the Summer and Casual Furniture Manufacturers Association (SCFMA). He has held many board positions over the past 20-plus years, including chairman, president, and first and second vice president. He was serving as president in 2007 when the SCFMA board voted to create the new ICFA as a more inclusive and unifying organization for the casual industry. In announcing the new organization at the 2007 Apollo Awards dinner, Rehmert said: “Our industry is at a crossroads, and it is imperative that we ask ourselves, ‘What makes specialty casual furniture retail special?’ We have to ask ourselves this question so we can better prepare our businesses for the future.”
In addition, Rehmert served as a director of the American Home Furnishings Alliance in 2016-2018 as one of two representatives from the outdoor furnishings division.
As a leader, mentor and role model, Rehmert is known as a great friend to the casual furniture industry. In addition to continuously offering his own support to the ICFA, Rehmert has encouraged his fellow manufacturers to do the same. He has always recognized the value and importance that the ICFA and SCFMA have brought to the industry with their educational, networking and mentoring opportunities.
“He has truly set the bar for what others should strive to achieve in their careers,” said David Schweig, president of Sunnyland Outdoor Living in Dallas, who submitted a nomination for Rehmert in the award selection process. “He is a man of integrity and honor … a very talented and knowledgeable individual who graciously has shared his insight for the betterment of those in our industry.”
Rehmert will be honored during the 2022 ICFA Awards Gala on July 20 at Navy Pier in Chicago.
As the Coronavirus (COVID-19) threat continues to
grow and interrupt activities across the globe, Brown Jordan Incorporated
(Inc.) is continuing to take steps to provide reliable and safe operations for
our employees, clients, vendors, and communities, based on the recommended
guidelines of healthcare leaders.
Your trust in our six Brown Jordan Inc. brands has been the cornerstone of our success for the past 75 years, and we will continue to honor that with all products being produced and delivered on time. In following the requirements of health authorities, Brown Jordan Inc.’s plans for the upcoming period are as follows:
Uninterrupted Production and Deliveries – We manufacture in seven plants and have
seven distribution centers across North America that are fully operational for
all six brands, currently producing orders without disruption or delay in
deliveries.
Showrooms – Effective today by
close of business, Brown Jordan stores and showrooms will close until April 9th.
As we continue to monitor the current landscape, we will be providing updates
regarding our operations.
Virtual Design Service – Design
consultation services through conference and teleconference are available throughout the country to ensure the same
level of personalized service that clients have come to expect from all our
brands.
New Products – Brown Jordan Inc. brands will introduce
its lineup of Spring product launches on digital platforms, keeping clients
informed of exciting new collections we’re bringing to the market.
It is of the utmost importance to us to remain proactive
in our precautions through these troubling times. In keeping with local and federal regulations, Brown Jordan Inc. is
continuing to update its policies for the benefit of the public, clients, and
employees, as the public health situation evolves. We will also continue to innovate, manufacture and
deliver products that meet the needs of our clients’ expectations.
Stay safe,
Gene J. Moriarty
President and CEO of Brown Jordan Inc.
July 10, 2018 – Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.– During the upcoming 2019 ICFA Preview
Market, visitors to Castelle’s showroom #1576 – Chicago Merchandise Mart, will
be treated to the unveiling of multiple luxury aluminum outdoor furnishing
collections encompassing hundreds of new product designs. These introductions
are the culmination of a research and design process spanning over the past
year by the award-winning Castelle product development team. Collections
include designer collaborations to contemporary and transitional styles.
“Our
design team once again has worked to deliver collections that respond to requests
made by our specialty retail partners and designers as well as the clientele of
each,” said Rory Rehmert, senior vice president, sales, Castelle. “Through the
diversity of styles and design preferences being introduced for 2020, the
collections we are able to capture multiple trends as well as highlight our
custom capabilities.”
For 2020, the Castelle introductions include ANTLER HILL from
Biltmore by Castelle with a farmhouse elegance. SAVANNAH from the Barclay
Butera Collections for Castelle displays a gentle lifestyle with soft bamboo
design elements. An angled, contemporary
design is handcrafted in the PRISM while English outdoor formality is captured
in the BORDEAUX. Through the custom finishing, fabrics and details offered by
Castelle, thousands of design possibilities will be possible within the newest collections.
“The preparation for the Preview Market of this many complete collections
is a major undertaking; but one for
which Castelle customers look to us to deliver,” said Rehmert. “We are
committed to providing quality original designs worthy of the CASTELLE brand
and the retail entities with which we have partnered.”
The
full complement of introductory product will be on display during the July ICFA
Preview Market July 16th – 18th, 2019. For more information about Castelle and its luxury
casual furniture, visit castellefurniture.com.
Irvine, Calif. — (June 4, 2019) Tropitone Furniture Company, Inc. debuted three commercial-grade outdoor furniture collections in May 2019. Suitable for both commercial and residential markets, Prime, Trelon and FIT bring curated style and function to Tropitone’s unfolding line up of furniture for 2020.
Modern Outdoor Furniture Collections Debuted
The Prime and Trelon groups are the work of renowned designer John Caldwell who is admired for his inspired furniture designs that expertly merge unlikely materials, textures, shapes, and colors.
Trelon is a harmonious pairing of structure and comfort. It’s an ode to the classic barrel chair with its curved back and gently sloping arms. The artistic centerpiece of the collection’s modern design is the vertical Sunbrella® Strap detail that adds texture and warmth to its simple silhouette. The durable Sunbrella® Strap and cushion fabric can be fully customized to create a color combination that perfectly reflects individual style. The collection includes a cushion dining chair, barstool, lounge chair, swivel action lounger, sofa, love seat, ottoman, and a square and rectangular coffee table.
Prime speaks to today’s interest in minimalist furniture for outdoor hospitality and home settings. A series of angled, barrel-shaped frames create the collection’s sleek vibe that exudes an effortless cool factor. Its ample cushion seat can be customized with a wide selection of durable outdoor fabrics. The Prime Collection includes a cushioned dining chair, barstool, lounge chair, swivel action lounger, sofa, love seat, ottoman, and a square and rectangular coffee table.
Both collections feature commercial-grade aluminum frames and Tropitone® RE-LAXplus® cushions for the ultimate in comfort and support.
Tropitone® FIT is a fully-upholstered outdoor modular collection that can be configured for any size or shape outdoor space by adjusting the position of its three lounge seating pieces. FIT’s unique, weighted back cushions can easily be repositioned to create a myriad of seating options. Its armless, modern silhouette defies the ordinary, lending itself to a simple, clean style. All pieces are fully upholstered with Sunbrella® fabric covers lined with a waterproof backing. The lounge and back cushion fabric colors can be mixed and matched to create a one-of-a-kind style. The collection features seven pieces that can be ordered individually including a 1-seater lounge, 3-seater lounge, 1-seater wedge lounge, right module back, left module back, armless module back, and a curved module back.
“Fit, Trelon, and Prime introductions further show Tropitone’s diverse line up of outdoor furniture collections,” says Kristi George, senior commercial sales manager for Tropitone. “These collections are an introduction for Tropitone into the fully upholstered and cloth strap categories. These designs have been very well received.”
All three collections are a must-see and sit. They will be featured in Tropitone’s Suite 1523 at NeoCon: Toast to Fine Design on Tuesday, June 11, 2019, from 3-5 p.m. in the Design Center at the Mart in Chicago. The event will be held during the 51st annual NeoCon commercial design industry show that runs June 10-12 at the Mart. NeoCon registration is required to attend. If you can’t make the event, stop by the Tropitone suite at the Mart any time for a personal showing.
About Tropitone
Tropitone manufactures beautifully crafted, time-tested outdoor furniture for the world’s most luxurious resorts and hotels; and for residential homeowners who want to re-create the resort experience in their own backyards.
Since 1954, Tropitone has been a leader of hi-quality outdoor furniture and decor. Products are manufactured to a ‘commercial grade’ for hospitality, multifamily, club, and residential markets. Products are sold nationally through specialty retail stores and are available to the trade. Tropitone is headquartered in Irvine, CA with bi-coastal manufacturing in Irvine and Sarasota, FL.
Tropitone is recognized throughout the casual furniture market industry for its heritage, design, and craftsmanship. For more information and to see the full product line, visit www.tropitone.com
ST. AUGUSTINE, FL – May 17, 2019 – Brown Jordan International, Inc. today announced that is has acquired the assets of Castelle Furniture Co., Inc. and its Costa Rican operations. The transaction combines leading providers of outdoor casual furniture to the residential and hospitality markets into a company generating consolidated net sales of nearly $400 million. The combined company will be headquartered in St. Augustine, Florida, and will maintain manufacturing, design and administrative operations in five states in the U.S. as well as Juarez, Mexico and Costa Rica.
“We have long admired Castelle’s manufacturing capabilities
and its very productive Costa Rica facility. We are excited for the opportunity
to leverage our complimentary customer relationships, product lines and
financial strength with the Castelle team. The brand has a long-established
reputation for outstanding quality furniture, and we are excited about its
potential for growth” said Gene Moriarty, Brown Jordan International’s
President and Chief Executive Officer.
Rory Rehmert will remain as the Sr. Vice President, Sales
for the Castelle residential business. “Rory has led the sales efforts over the
last 11 years for the company and has been instrumental in its growth. We look
forward to working with Rory and his team” said Moriarty.
Steven Kalter, Principal of Littlejohn who acquired Brown
Jordan International in 2017 added, “Brown Jordan’s board of directors is
committed to supporting the company and its management team for the long term
and see significant growth from this transaction and future opportunities”.
ABOUT BROWN JORDAN INTERNATIONAL
Brown Jordan International, is a leading
designer, manufacturer and marketer of lifestyle brands serving the residential
and commercial outdoor and indoor furniture markets. The company offers
innovative designs and superior quality through its strong portfolio of
lifestyle brands that include Brown Jordan, Tropitone, Charter, Texacraft and
Winston.
The company is vertically integrated with
numerous manufacturing facilities located both domestically and in Mexico. The
company sources products from low cost regions including China, Thailand,
Indonesia and Vietnam.
Designs are constructed of extruded,
wrought and cast aluminum, as well as stainless steel, teak and woven resin. In
addition to the outdoor environment, products for the hospitality industry are
also found in public spaces and resort and hotel guest rooms. Products are also
sold into apartments, condominiums and country clubs. The company gets product
to market through a network of sales representatives, specialty dealers,
company showrooms and mass merchandisers.
Founded in 1945 by Robert Brown and Hubert
Jordan in Pasadena, California, Brown Jordan International has grown to become
the leading lifestyle platform in the outdoor and indoor furniture market,
featuring scale and diversity across products, customers, suppliers and
distribution channels.
Brown Jordan International has developed a culture of operational excellence, quality, and continuous innovation over its 70+ year history. Brown Jordan International brings innovative designs to market through internal and best-in-class external product designers. With a distinct team of designers for each segment, Brown Jordan International is continuously refreshing its product portfolio to adapt to evolving consumer tastes and styles. Brown Jordan International has won over 50 design excellence awards – more than any other manufacturer in the outdoor furniture. For more information, visit: www.bji.com.
HIGH POINT, NC — APRIL 2019 — Brown Jordan, the American legacy brand of outdoor luxury furnishings, presents new collections at the brand’s recently re-designed showroom at High Point Market, April 6-10.
Oscar, a collection designed in collaboration with Ann Marie Vering, offers a sophisticated indoor-outdoor aesthetic and pays homage to the brand’s beginnings in 1945 through its materiality, innovation, and craftsmanship. At the show, Brown Jordan will also present additions to the timeless Still collection by collaborator, Richard Frinier.
OSCAR: HISTORY + DEVELOPMENT
In delving into the historic Brown Jordan archives, Ann Marie Vering was struck by the Bronze
Collection by architect Walter Lamb. A mid-century innovator, Lamb looked to the sea and vintage materials as inspiration for a collection. Prototypes for his first collection for Brown Jordan in 1948, called Bronze, were created with salvaged rope, brass and copper tubing from sunken Pearl Harbor ships. Vering chose rope as a key element for Oscar’s seating pieces in tribute to Lamb and his legacy.
Bridging a reference to Lamb’s process to her own repertoire of global design references, the rope and curved frame bring warmth and an artisanal quality to the collection. Vering, a talented designer with an international portfolio of hotels and resorts, found inspiration in global floral markets, captivated by textures, shapes and movement of hanging baskets and braided weightbaring ropes.
Multi-dimensional, the rope forms a striking silhouette visible from all sides. Alluring patterns are balanced with angled legs and a handsome frame, confirming Oscar’s versatility as a sophisticated furniture series suited for indoors or out. The collection consists of: chaise, benches (two sizes), dining chair, bar stool, lounge chair, sofa, love seat, daybed, rectangular dining tables (three sizes) coffee table (three sizes), end table (round) and side table (round).
Brown Jordan sourced roping that is non-toxic and stain resistant and offered in two tones: Coal, a dark grey, or Pebble, a light grey. At market, upholstery by Sunbrella, made exclusively for Brown Jordan, is presented in two colors: Frost, a light grey, or Castaway, a dark grey. Tabletops are made of Dekton Ultra, a best in class solid surface material by Cosentino. The Oscar tables reveal a first-time collaboration between Brown Jordan and Cosentino, a global leader in innovative surfaces. Crafted from ultra-compact Dekton, surfaces capture the texture and beauty of natural stone and are engineered to endure the elements and withstand the test of time. Tabletops are available in cement-inspired shades of: Fossil, a dark grey, and Keon, a light grey. Powder-coated aluminum for framing and legs, a hallmark of Brown Jordan’s coveted manufacturing, completes the collection and is available in either Textured Pewter, a dark grey, or Dove, a light grey.
STILL COLLECTION ADDITIONS BY RICHARD FRINIER
Brown Jordan’s award-winning Still Collection, has been a favorite of the A+D community and brand followers since its debut in 2011. Created by celebrated designer Richard Frinier, the collection has been a favorite of the A+D community and brand enthusiasts since its 2011 debut. The collection has been expanded to extend the live-work-play mantra that embodies a contemporary lifestyle. As a veteran designer for Brown Jordan, Frinier was inspired to create this collection with a distinctively modern essence and quiet elegance.
New additions to the Still collection include a sofa, ottoman, occasional table, side chair, bar chair, bar stool as well as a mobile serving console with customized trays. Each thoughtfully designed piece offers duality in purpose and uses for interior or exterior spaces.
The Still sofa is celebrated as a collection standout. Its elegant back creates a dignified, clean-lined background. The raised edges of the sides converge into a seamless design, showcasing the striking Versatex fabric panel, making it ideal for indoor use. This eye-catching piece is destined to be sought after as a locale for entertaining or lounging.
The stylized mobile serving console, striking as a stand-alone element, offers open shelving on two levels. Ideal for serving food or drinks, the moveable console can sit adjacent t furniture and function as a place for setting items down. Hand-crafted accessory serving trays provide a practical design element. The trays may be specified in three shapes—round, square or rectangular —and are available in 21 custom finishes. This piece offers the option to create cohesiveness, complementing Brown Jordan furniture designs and extending the look to any setting.
ABOUT ANN MARIE VERING
With a hybrid portfolio of hotel, furniture and restaurant design, Ann Marie Vering uses a holistic approach to handcraft products and projects from concept to completion. Her education in Architectural Engineering coupled with an artistic background enables a fluency in design. Instinct and perception are key traits upon which she relies. She believes that the best ideas are those created by unexpected experiences. Ann remains immersed in both fields of art and engineering, pulling influences from her extensive travels and keeping an oath to originality and meaning. Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The Los Angeles Times, Architectural Digest and C Magazine. Each year, she takes on a select number of design projects for top clients.
ABOUT RICHARD FRINIER
Internationally acclaimed, California-based designer Richard Frinier is renowned for bringing the quality of indoor living outside and the balanced nature of living outdoors inside. His extensive travels have inspired his modern and neoclassical designs that may be seen in royal palaces, resorts and private residences around the world. A master of arts and crafts, Richard began his career as a sculptor, artist, furniture and lighting designer. In 1981, he joined Brown Jordan, working for several years with Mid-Century Modern designer emeritus Hall Bradley and staying on for 20 years, becoming chief creative officer and lead designer. In 2002, he returned to private design studio practice where he collaborates with Brown Jordan and other brands. His work has been published extensively and several of his designs for Brown Jordan have remained in continuous production for over 30 years. He has received over 90 design excellence and achievement awards, including an ICFA Lifetime Achievement Award, induction into the American Home Furnishings Hall of Fame, and recently the Top 40 Influencers in the Home Furnishings Industry over the Past 40 Years.
ABOUT BROWN JORDAN
Since 1945, Brown Jordan has designed casual furnishings that defined and transformed an industry. Established by Robert Brown and Hubert Jordan in Pasadena, California, Brown Jordan was the first company to create furniture for full-time outdoor use. The first of these innovative designs, constructed of tubular aluminum and vinyl laces, was fittingly called “Leisure,” marking the birth of outdoor furniture. Recognized as a distinguished legacy brand, the company has developed a culture of operational excellence, high quality and continuous innovation over its 70+ year history.
Brown Jordan has won over 50 design excellence awards – more than any other manufacturer in the outdoor furniture industry. The company maintains showrooms in major U.S. markets, including Chicago, Costa Mesa, Dallas, Los Angeles, Miami, San Francisco, and Scottsdale. For more information on Brown Jordan products or to find a certified dealer, call: 800-743-4252 or visit: www.brownjordan.com.
Jerry Redmond, Chief Operating Officer at Brown Jordan International
ST. AUGUSTINE, FL – April 3, 2019 – Brown Jordan International, a leading U.S. designer, manufacturer and marketer of luxury home and upscale contract furnishings, has appointed accomplished senior executive, Jerry Redmond as Chief Operating Officer. Working from Brown Jordan headquarters In St. Augustine, Redmond will report directly to the company’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Gene J. Moriarty.
In
his new role, Jerry will be responsible for transitioning Brown Jordan
International from a holding company to a center-led manufacturer. Further, he
will oversee all manufacturing, logistics, distribution, procurement,
engineering and product design capabilities at the company. Lastly, Redmond is
charged with growing revenue and operating a profit for the company, while also
solidifying a One Company, One Team culture throughout the organization. “I look forward to partnering with Jerry during
this exciting time in our growth strategy,” said Gene J. Moriarty, President
and Chief Executive Officer. He continued: “His extensive experience in
operations and robust leadership skills will be of great importance as we
execute a number of high return improvement initiatives to drive even more
value to our customers.”
Redmond
brings 25 plus years of experience coupled with a proven track record in
improving performance in multiple, fast-paced settings. As President of
Anderson Corporation, he oversaw 8,000 employees, 15 manufacturing plants and maintained
accountability for 80% of sales for the country’s largest window and door manufacturer.
At Anderson for a decade, Redmond began as Senior VP of Operations and managed
customer service, sourcing, manufacturing and distribution, and, ultimately, was
promoted to President. This was proceeded by leadership roles at Whirlpool
Corporation where, in operations, he managed several facilities and production
in both Mexico and Canada.
Redmond
has a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from Mississippi State University and an
MBA from Northwestern University. He and his family will be transitioning to
St. Augustine from Minneapolis, Minnesota.
ABOUT BROWN JORDAN INTERNATIONAL
Brown Jordan International is a leading
designer, manufacturer and marketer of lifestyle brands serving the residential
and commercial outdoor and indoor furniture markets. The company offers
innovative designs and superior quality through its strong portfolio of
lifestyle brands that include Brown Jordan, Tropitone, Charter, Texacraft and
Winston.
The company is vertically integrated with
numerous manufacturing facilities located both domestically and in Mexico. The
company sources products from low cost regions including China, Thailand, Indonesia
and Vietnam.
Designs are constructed of extruded, wrought
and cast aluminum, as well as stainless steel, teak and woven resin. In
addition to the outdoor environment, products for the hospitality industry are
also found in public spaces and resort and hotel guest rooms. Products are also
sold into apartments, condominiums and country clubs. The company gets product
to market through a network of sales representatives, specialty dealers,
company showrooms and mass merchandisers.
Founded in 1945 by Robert Brown and Hubert Jordan
in Pasadena, California, Brown Jordan International has grown to become the
leading lifestyle platform in the outdoor and indoor furniture market,
featuring scale and diversity across products, customers, suppliers and
distribution channels.
Brown Jordan International has developed a
culture of operational excellence, quality, and continuous innovation over its
70+ year history. Brown Jordan International brings innovative designs to
market through internal and best-in-class external product designers. With a
distinct team of designers for each segment, Brown Jordan International is
continuously refreshing its product portfolio to adapt to evolving consumer
tastes and styles. Brown Jordan International has won over 50 design excellence
awards – more than any other manufacturer in the outdoor furniture. For more
information, visit: www.bji.com.
Texacraft’s new 2016 introduction, the Edge Collection is a finalist in the 12th Annual HD Awards. This is Texacraft’s first submission to this prestigious competition and we are elated at the recognition. The Edge Collection exemplifies Designer John Caldwell’s unique interpretation of modular lounge seating. From the initial review of Caldwell’s concepts, we knew this was a sensational design. Our superb 2016 offering has resulted in a season that began with a flourish and has been building ever since.
Edge Cushion is a sophisticated, contemporary modular collection. It has a clean architectural look with broad aluminum framing that doubles as a gathering or leaning mantel around the perimeter. Its versatility allows for any configuration, large or small, to fit your outdoor or indoor space. The many possibilities and variations will provide endless interior design alternatives, creating the aesthetic you desire. Its 42-inch “privacy height” frame creates an exceptional personal space. Modular pieces fit together with a clip to eliminate movement. This nine-piece collection includes occasional, end and coffee tables. An array of fabrics is available. This collection is complimented with a padded sling and sling collection each consisting of nine pieces.
About Texacraft
Having celebrated Texacraft’s 40th anniversary in manufacturing during 2015, we look forward to the next four decades of producing enduring furniture for the growing commercial market. What has made Texacraft so successful since its inception is not only the actual furniture it has produced, but also the effective direction of marketing, sales management, customer service and a general understanding of the market and demographics. It’s the behind the scenes segments of manufacturing that are the foundation that make the other segments successful, too. We believe that our drive to improve in all aspects ensures that the Texacraft brand will enjoy continued success for many decades to come.
For 2016, we have a compelling lineup of products that are diverse, aesthetically appealing and relevant. We listen to our knowledgeable sales force as well as our loyal customers, who provide us with the kind of feedback we need to position ourselves for success each and every year. This year, we have executed plans to broaden our warehousing footprint in order to stock more quick-ship products to keep pace with customer demands. Procedures are also being implemented to better forecast spikes in product demands, so we are prepared as the forecasts become reality.
Our commitment to excellence is ongoing. That’s the challenge we embrace head-on every day.
Our goal is to be the first source customers seek to fulfill their outdoor furniture project needs whether they are poolside, restaurant, and lobby or wherever. We’ve earned the trust and respect of thousands of repeat customers over the decades and add many more each year.
