Furnico acquired by La-Z-Boy

Hot 100-ranked Furnico Furniture Ltd has been acquired by La-Z-Boy, becoming its first European manufacturing site.

The Lancashire firm has manufactured the world-famous recliners since acquiring the La-Z-Boy licence in 2008. Parent company La-Z-Boy Incorporated, headquartered in Michigan, USA, re-acquired the licence in 2017.

La-Z-Boy intends to continue production from the two factory sites in Nelson and Colne, with plans for a product showroom being discussed for the larger facility on Philllips Lane.

Furnico directors David Ellison, Stuart Shackleton and Nigel Ramsey are transitioning over and will continue to lead the business. The manufacture of white labelled products for retailers in the UK and Ireland is set to continue alongside La-Z-Boy branded products.

Keith Wilson, president of La-Z-Boy International, said: "“The entire team is delighted to welcome Furnico’s 285 employees to the La-Z-Boy family as we launch La-Z-Boy Manufacturing UK Ltd, our only plant presence within Europe.

"Given the unprecedented issues currently affecting global sea freight, the timing of this deal will reassure our customers of shorter lead times and a dependable supply network."

The offices of La-Z-Boy International and La-Z-Boy UK will remain in Maidenhead, Berkshire.

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