Capel Rugs said it is spearheading an initiative to establish a permanent showroom at Toronto-based design center SOFA|Source of Furniture + Accessories for a consortium of North Carolina-based home furnishings companies. The project will allow participating companies to work collectively with the aim of increasing foreign market share, exploiting export potential in the Canadian market and gaining exposure to the design community.

The consortium will aim to lower expenses by allowing participating companies to share the costs of managing and marketing a joint showroom. Members of the consortium will also be provided with assistance as they become familiar with the exporting process. With 25 years of experience exporting to Canada, Capel Rugs will play a key role in sharing its experience with other consortium members.

"Exports continue to be a growth opportunity for Capel and we know that by sharing what we've learned so far, we can create a situation where everyone benefits," said Bud Young, Capel's vp marketing. "We are excited about this opportunity to work with other manufacturers in North Carolina to show in a premier space and to elevate manufacturing in our home state as a whole."

On July 28, Capel will gather with other North Carolina home furnishings manufacturers, as well as representatives from the N.C. Department of Commerce, the U.S. Department of Commerce and others with a special interest in the North Carolina home furnishings industry for a preliminary interest meeting at the High Point Chamber of Commerce.

"We are hoping that this meeting will act as a springboard for companies that are interested in coming together to create an exciting new opportunity," said Young. "And this is just the beginning. If we work together, the potential for growth could be tremendous."

The preliminary interest meeting is open to all interested manufacturers. To RSVP, please contact Rebecca McMahan at (910) 572-7179 or by email atRmcmahan@capel.net. RSVPs will be accepted until July 23.