Springs adds Baker

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 8/3/2001 5:12:00 PM

Fort Mill, SC — The latest addition to Springs Industries' executive team brings many sought-after qualities to one of the major mill's wholly owned subsidiaries.

Chris Baker, it was announced last week, has joined Springs as the new president of AFI. He succeeds Jeff Nigh, who has joined a project management team.

"With a wealth of manufacturing, operations, sales and marketing experience, Chris has the expertise needed to further develop this division," said Tom O'Connor, Springs' executive vp and president of the sales and marketing group. "He has a proven record of consistent success that will equip him for this new opportunity."

Most recently Baker was the president and coo of Network Systems International Inc. During his tenure in the home textiles industry, Baker has been regarded as one of the top executives, thanks to his strong management and people skills as well as his background in the retail and textile producing sides of the industry. Baker's knowledge of the feather, down, comforter and pillow market fuels speculation that Springs may soon make a stronger push into that arena.

While working for the Pillowtex Corp., Baker was seen as a calming influence and considered the heir apparent while working under then-chairman/ceo Chuck Hansen. Baker also worked for The Company Store for several years.

"Chris has been an experienced part of home furnishings business for many years, and he will add a lot to our team," O'Connor said, adding that Springs will continue to make investments in its basic bedding business.