La-Z-Boy Inc boss Melinda D Whittington recently visited the brand’s Lancashire factory to see the new lines of British-made goods being produced.
This was Melinda’s first visit to the UK since she was promoted to the role of CEO and president of La-Z-Boy Inc in April 2021. Her trip included visiting La-Z-Boy’s factory in Colne and touring the production floor, along with visiting the firm’s UK and International headquarters in Maidenhead, Berkshire.
As well as meeting the management team, Melinda got involved in some of the work going on in the factory and tried her hand at upholstering a footrest on a piece of furniture being manufactured there.
The factory plays a key role in La-Z-Boy UK’s international supply chain.
“It’s been exciting to see the innovative approach to product and brand within this part of the world, and to meet in person the team who make our products a reality,” said Melinda. “La-Z-Boy UK is one of our leading international markets and will be the focus for further leadership team visits as we seek to learn more from our international businesses in the lead-up to our 100-year anniversary in 2027.”
Mark Draper, VP of La-Z-Boy International, said: “The UK team has been delighted to welcome Melinda to Britain and show her the work we are doing here. Her visit shows La-Z-Boy’s ever-increasing commitment to the UK and beyond.
“As a brand, we are working hard to design and manufacture new collections which meet the needs of consumers. Our made-in-Britain sofas, chairs and recliners showcase the high quality of British craftsmanship, help support the local economy and balances our reliance on overseas shipping, which can currently be unpredictable.”
In addition to her factory visit, Melinda visited national furniture retailers, including the flagship SCS store in Coventry, where she met CEO Steve Carson. She also held a Q&A session with staff at La-Z-Boy UK’s head office and paid visits to a number of independent furniture stores which stock the brand.
Pictured: Melinda D Whittington with La-Z-Boy staff at the brand’s factory in Colne, Lancashire
