Kwan Ng named president of Laura Ashley

-- Home Textiles Today, 10/1/2009 8:59:00 AM

Fort Mill, S.C. – Laura Ashley, Inc. announced today Kwan Ng has been named president of the company, overseeing the licensing operations and business strategy for North and South America. Ng replaces Lawrence Chai, who retired Sept. 30.

Ng was formerly ceo of Laura Ashley Holdings, PLC in London. During the five years he led the company there, he expanded Laura Ashley’s home furnishings division and revamped the brand image. In 2003, he left to lead bath and home products brand Crabtree and Evelyn.

His career began with Metroyaya, a retail group in Malaysia that owns department and specialty stores and supermarket chains.

“His experience in the retail industry on a global scale will provide us with valuable direction as we continue to grow Laura Ashley’s business in North America and expand into South America,” said general manager Penne Cairoli.

 “The Laura Ashley team and U.S. licensees have made significant strides moving the brand forward, while staying true to its heritage,” said Ng. “I plan to build on that momentum, providing insight for expanding our distribution and product offering.”

North American licensees for Laura Ashley include Revman International, Bon Ton, Russell-Newman, Inc., and Kincaid Furniture.