Hooker debuting first youth collections
By Jane Kitchen -- Kids Today, 10/1/2004
Martinsville, Va. — Hooker Furniture is entering the youth bedroom category for the first time at this fall's High Point market with three 30-piece youth groups under the name SmartKids Youth Furniture for Life.
"As we attempt to be a complete resource, we recognize that youth bedroom is a category in which we need a vital presence," said Paul B. Toms Jr., chairman and CEO of Hooker.
SmartKids has been in development for more than a year and includes three collections: Swedish Accents, a feminine group with Scandinavian design influences and white finish with fly-specking; Summerside, a cottage look available in natural pine, black and white finishes; and Albany Park, an urban lifestyle look in rogue cherry veneers inspired by a master bedroom collection of the same name.
Each group features six or seven bed options, and all beds are available with underbed storage or trundle options. Hooker has positioned SmartKids in the upper-medium price points, with twin beds retailing around $599, dressers at $649 and student desks between $599 and $649.
The collections are styled to be appropriate for second bedrooms as well, and the company hopes their tagline communicates that.
Hooker is also planning a college scholarship sweepstakes promotion for consumers, and SmartKids dealers are eligible for point-of-purchase signage and other collateral materials.
Hooker plans at least two more youth collections for April's High Point market.
Hooker's new youth offerings include Swedish Accents, a feminine white-painted group.
