WPS firms infrastructure

By Marvin Lazaro -- Home Textiles Today, 4/23/2001 12:00:00 AM

WEST POINT, GA — WestPoint Stevens made more moves to firm up its inner structure, hiring Arthur Birkins as senior vp, basic bedding, effective May 7.

Birkins, who has more than 20 years experience in the home textiles industry, most recently served Waverly Home Fashions as vp and oversaw sales, marketing, product development and manufacturing. Birkins has also been employed by Decorative Home Accents, as well as Home Express and J.C. Penney.

"This is an area that offers tremendous growth potential for us and one that we're going to really focus on, combining the power of our brands and our manufacturing expertise," said Chip Fontenot, president/coo, WestPoint Stevens. "So, we're quite fortunate to have found a person with extensive home furnishings product expertise to direct this new thrust.

"Art Birkins is a seasoned professional with experience in retail, home furnishings marketing and product development."

Birkins, who will be based at the West Point, GA-based company's New York office, will report directly to Fontenot.