Some Background:

The inauguration of the brand new 10,000 sq. foot Ethan Allen Design Center at the Fall 2009 Las Vegas Market provided an opportunity to sit down and talk with Farooq Kathwari, the President, and CEO of Ethan Allen.

Farooq Kathwari took over the reins of the company over 20 years ago and took the company public in 1993. He has transformed Ethan Allen into a leading manufacturer and retailer of home furnishings and established himself as a leader in the home furnishings industry.

Kathwari has also been inducted into the Furniture Hall of Fame for his achievements within the furniture industry.

On The Las Vegas World Market Design Center:

Farooq Kathwari says the new Ethan Allen Design Center in its new location will be open to the public throughout the year, and for Fall and Spring Markets it will cater to Market attendees only. This follows upon the heels of the successful flagship store in Manhattan, and another one in Raleigh, North Carolina.

He thinks this Design Center will give Ethan Allen an opportunity to be part of a larger, design-focused destination and offer Ethan Allen clients in the Las Vegas area design expertise and a diverse and eclectic range of home furnishings.

On Ethan Allen Design Centers:

Ethan Allen which already has over 250 design centers in the U.S. is also expanding globally. New design centers have opened in China and Dubai, with more slated to open in Europe.

These new concept Design Centers which are modeled on professional interior design studios, carry a sampling of products that is supplemented by the integration of interior design tools such as Ethan Allen's new website ethanallen.com and the services of its design consultants.

All of this together aims to provide a fuller, more intimate shopping experience while expanding the range of products and an emphasis on service.

On Ethan Allen's Focus on Custom-made Furniture:

Kathwari thinks customization will play a big role in the future, and Ethan Allen is focusing on it.

"25 years ago the company was selling production runs. Recently we began offering custom-made upholstery with delivery within 30 days, now we will also offer custom-made casegoods."

Farooq Kathwari says that Ethan Allen's focus on custom-made will give clients products and interior design solutions that would save them time and money. The company plans to convert its entire casegoods business to custom-made in the coming months. Customization also means that the furniture will be largely manufactured in America.

On Ethan Allen's Interior Design Affiliate Program (IDA):

Another big step is the introduction of an Interior Design Affiliate program. Ethan Allen is offering interior designers a very unique affiliate program through which independent interior designers can bring in their clients and use Ethan Allen merchandise, services and facilities.

Not only does this provide additional resources to interior designers, Ethan Allen will pay a referral fee on every purchase. It will also provide support, process orders, and handle customer service and delivery. As Farooq Kathwari says it's a "win-win solution for all concerned."