Howard Miller launching line with TV's Pennington
By Jeff Linville -- Furniture Today, March 24, 2008
Zeeland, Mich. — Case goods source Howard Miller is launching a product line licensed with Ty Pennington, home décor expert and host of ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition."
The manufacturer believes the collection — Howard Miller Home Storage Solutions by Ty Pennington — has enough customizable options to appeal to the do-it-yourself lovers who watch the TV persona's programs.
The High Point introduction is a new direction for the company, said Phil Miller, chairman and CEO. The three groups in the line will take the occasional specialist into other case goods niches. The new line will include three groups:
-
Lifestyle Storage has 13 offerings that incorporate function such as MP3 ports and speakers, a charging station, a concealed ironing board, a hair dryer, a hidden message center and a mudroom locker.
-
Personal Storage allows consumers individuality by letting them choose the finish, hardware, door style, storage features, pediment and base. Howard Miller will offer an easy-to-use online or in-store ordering process.
-
Wall Storage includes products such as pier cabinets to flank TV consoles, allowing consumers to display personal keepsakes and store media/library items.
While retail price points are still being finalized, Mark Siciliano, director of marketing, said the general range of pieces is $999 to $1,999 for Lifestyle Storage, $799 to $2,999 for Personal Storage and $499 to $799 for Wall Storage.
Traditionally known for its grandfather clocks, Howard Miller has grown to include a full line of floor, mantle and table clocks and also collector's cabinets. In 2005 the company introduced the Wine & Spirits collection, offering 25 cabinets for storage of wine bottles and glasses.
The company said Storage Solutions "incorporates Ty's love for quality, trendsetting style and Howard Miller's commitment to fine craftsmanship and fashion-forward design."
"I couldn't be more pleased about working with Howard Miller, a company that is just as dedicated to quality and style as I am," said Pennington. "I understand how the consumer struggles with decorating her home and I want to change that. Offering my expertise to guide people through this difficult process is my goal, and launching Howard Miller Home Storage Solutions by Ty Pennington gives me the opportunity to do just that."
"America loves Ty," said President Howard "Buzz" Miller. "His signature style combines the best of great design with an approachability and dedication to quality craftsmanship that really resonates with today's consumers.... We believe it will broaden our consumer base and deliver even more customers to dealers' doorsteps."
As host of ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition," Pennington helps build and decorate homes for families in need each week before an audience of 14.3 million viewers. Howard Miller has regularly supplied the show with clocks.
Pennington has other licensed home furnishings with Sears, including bedding, rugs and home accents.
In citing a need for these products, Howard Miller noted research from the Freedonia Group that home organization product sales would rise 5.1% between 2005 and 2009, from about $7.2 billion to $7.6 billion.
Howard Miller will introduce the line at its 200 N. Hamilton St. showroom. Pennington will visit the space Monday, April 7, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
