Carter Furniture sale to Directional finalized

Published 12:00 am Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Directional Furniture has bought Carter Furniture in an agreement finalized Jan. 23.
Carter, one of America’s best-known contemporary seating companies, is based in Salisbury and has been in business since 1976.
It closed its doors at both the North Long Street and Denton plants Jan. 7. News of the sale to Directional was announced then. Directional will lease the Denton plant.
Buyers of contemporary furnishings recognize Carter’s unique design silhouettes in upholstered furniture, its selection of more than 400 fabrics and quality construction.
“We couldn’t be more excited to have Carter as a member of our family of companies,” said Rod Lambeth, chairman of Directional. “Carter helps us broaden our price range while maintaining our focus on quality. They have a loyal client base and a stellar reputation.”
Carter will function independently under the Directional management team. Manufacturing of Carter products will be in Directional facilities in Thomasville. Shipping is expected to begin as early as next week from the Thomasville plants.
“We believe this agreement is a win for everyone,” explained Lambeth. “There are economies found by having one management team but we are also dedicated to having Carter retain those facets of the company that make it unique.”
The Carter sales force will continue to represent the line and will report to Tom Powell, president of Directional.
Tomlinson/Erwin-Lambeth is the parent company of Directional.
Carter is shown in High Point in the IHFC building space, H538. Tomlinson, Erwin-Lambeth & Directional are shown in a stand-alone showroom at 525 North Wrenn Street in High Point.