TexStyle Joins Juvenile Source Whisper Soft

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 8/11/2008 12:00:00 AM

Cincinnati —

Home textiles producer TexStyle is merging with Babine Lake Corporation, parent of Whisper Soft Mills.

TexStyle specializes in window treatments, slipcovers, decorative pillows and shower curtains. Whisper Soft Mills is a leading producer of juvenile bedding and accessories.

The top management of both companies will remain intact with Ken Hedrick, ceo of TexStyle, retaining the same position for the new company, which is owned by TexStyle parent Anderson Group.

Vincent DeRosa, previously president of New York-based Whisper Soft, will become svp of sales and marketing.

Dan Cacella, formerly evp of TexStyle, becomes vp of sales.

Susan Opalewski was named vp of design and merchandising; Pam Peeler, vp of window and slipcover design; and Ron Szalla, vp of logistics and operations, will round out the management team for the new company.

TexStyle founder and former president Mike Crotty left the company last summer to start up a new business venture. TexStyle was acquired by Anderson Group in 2005.

At the upcoming New York Home Fashions Market Week, TexStyle and Whisper Soft will remain in the current showrooms at 230 Fifth Avenue and 261 Fifth Avenue, respectively. They will eventually combine showrooms, Hedrick said.