Tell us about yourself and your brand. How long have you been in business?

My name is Brad Miller, and I serve as the Vice President of International Sales at Hooker Furnishings. My role focuses on expanding our global reach, building strong partnerships, and ensuring our premium offerings resonate with diverse markets around the world. I have been with Hooker Furnishings for 15 years and in the industry for 25 years. Hooker Furnishings is one of the largest publicly traded furniture companies in the U.S. and our brand is rooted in a legacy of quality craftsmanship and innovation, spanning over 100 years. We are thrilled about our launch in the UK in January 2025 as it will be the first time that we have strategically designed furniture for a market outside of the United States. Our new Modern Country collection is appropriately scaled, priced and designed for British and European homes and it’s a privilege to be part of the team helping to bring our passion for design and quality to markets around the world.

Hooker Furnishings was founded in 1924 by Clyde Hooker Sr. in Martinsville, Virginia. His vision was to create jobs and opportunities in a time of economic hardship, and over the years, that seed of resilience and innovation has grown into a global leader in furniture. It’s an incredible story of how a small community effort turned into a company with a global reach.

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give to your younger self?

I would say to my 20 year old self: “You are doing great. You do not realize the great people you are about to meet and the wonderful experiences that you are about to launch into. Relax. Lean in. Truly enjoy each moment.”

 

Could you share details about any new collections or ranges you’ll be showcasing at the January Furniture Show?

We’re thrilled to debut our Modern Country collection, which was specifically designed with the UK and European markets in mind. It features five distinct ranges—Timeless, Eclectic Academia, Nordic Tranquility, Harmony Haven, and Academic Fusion. Each range blends timeless design elements with a modern aesthetic, offering something for everyone from traditional to contemporary tastes.

 

Do you have any personal favourites in your latest collection?

It’s hard to choose, but my personal favorite is the Academic Fusion Entertainment Center. The beauty, depth and simplicity of this console would work in any home worldwide and it’s a great representation of how design can elevate living spaces. I would be proud to own any item from the Modern Country collection, but if I had to choose only one, this would be the one.

 

What are you most looking forward to at the show?

I’m looking forward to connecting with our partners and introducing Hooker Furnishings to the UK market in a meaningful way. Our Modern Country collection was designed in the UK with British DNA, combined with Hooker Furnishings’ expertise and heritage of cabinet (casegood) finishes and design innovation. It’s a product line that I’m truly proud of and is something we’ve not seen in the marketplace. Being able to bring this new and exciting product line to life, and engaging with industry professionals at the January Furniture is truly exciting.

 

Have there been any highlights for you over the past year that you’d like to mention?

Celebrating Hooker Furnishings’ 100th anniversary has been a standout moment, marking a century of craftsmanship and innovation while expanding into international markets like the UK. We were also recently honored to receive the 2023 North Carolina Governor’s Export Award, recognizing our contributions as a global furniture exporter. Another key milestone is our partnership with the Rolls Royce Enthusiasts’ Club, highlighted by our participation in the prestigious St. James’s House event in London in December of 2024. Additionally, developing the Modern Country collection specifically for the UK and European markets in just six months, reflects the agility and dedication of our team. All of these achievements underscore our commitment to excellence and innovation as we continue to grow globally.

 

 

Where do you see the furniture industry heading? Are there any styles or trends making a comeback, or any designs you think are least likely to return?

The furniture industry is experiencing a revival of warmer and darker colors, reflecting a shift towards creating more inviting and sophisticated interiors. Designers are increasingly favoring darker woods such as walnut and mahogany. These materials add richness and depth, contributing to a cozy and elegant atmosphere. Alongside darker wood finishes, there's a growing preference for earthy tones in furniture design. Colors inspired by nature—such as warmer browns and earthy neutral tones. Sustainability is increasingly important, especially in Europe, and Hooker Furnishings is committed to environmental stewardship. We have an established Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) council that prioritizes people, planet, and profits, have joined the Sustainable Furnishings Council to promote eco-friendly practices, and have achieved EFEC certification at several facilities, highlighting our dedication to sustainable operations.

 

What’s next for your company?

We’re focusing on expanding our presence in the UK and Europe, continuing to develop collections that reflect local tastes and preferences. Beyond that, we’re excited to launch our new Margaritaville licensed collection in 2025, which will bring a vibrant, relaxed lifestyle aesthetic to homes everywhere. It’s all about growth and innovation while staying true to our roots.