The 'value added' of consumer brands coupled with better-end products made in China is a direction we feel will ultimately create a 'win-win' equation for the corporation and our Universal Furniture retail dealer base.
Kevin O'Connor, President and CEO of Samson Marketing, parent company of Universal

Universal Furniture has acquired the Pennsylvania House brand from motion giant La-Z-Boy. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Pennsylvania House is a high middle-end to low high-end manufacturer.

Kurt Darrow, President and Chief Executive Officer of La-Z-Boy Incorporated, said, "While Pennsylvania House has an excellent name and reputation in the marketplace, the company does not fit with La-Z-Boy's overall long-term strategy."

Randy Chrisley, Chief Executive Officer of Universal Furniture, said, "Pennsylvania House is a quality brand with outstanding consumer recognition. That recognition, combined with Universal Furniture's exceptional factory support, provides us with a unique opportunity to expand our ability to meet the changing needs of our customers."

Kevin O'Connor, President and CEO of Samson Marketing, parent company of Universal, stated: "The strategic plan for Universal Furniture is to develop brands like Better Homes and Gardens and now Pennsylvania House, which we will market to the industry and the consumer. The 'value added' of consumer brands coupled with better-end products made in China is a direction we feel will ultimately create a 'win-win' equation for the corporation and our Universal Furniture retail dealer base."

he La-Z-Boy Upholstery Group companies are Bauhaus, England, La-Z-Boy and La-Z-Boy, U.K. The La-Z-Boy Casegoods Group companies are American Drew, Hammary, Kincaid and Lea.