Brentwood banks on relationships

Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 10/1/2001 12:00:00 AM

Brentwood Originals

Carson, CA

President: Hal Alden

Principal businesses: decorative pillows, throws

Decorative pillow and throw manufacturer Brentwood Originals began importing in the late 1950s from Japan.

"Hal Alden [president] visited China just after [President Richard] Nixon's visit, and we began doing business there and, shortly thereafter, India, too," said Loren Sweet, vp, national sales manager. "We primarily import from China and India today."

Brentwood does not operate its own facilities abroad. It relies on long-standing relationships with key suppliers in each country that very substantial operations, Sweet emphasized, as well as a network of "complementary" textile mills that serve as liaisons for Brentwood's various needs.

Among the array of product Brentwood imports are decorative pillows, floor cushions, bed rests, barstool covers, draperies, scarves, throws, chairpads and bedding.