Plushest Pet Beds Prevail

By Carole Sloan -- Home Textiles Today, 5/5/2008 12:00:00 AM

New York —

As furnishings for pets grow as a business for both home textiles suppliers and retailers, high end retailer Pierre Deux has launched a chain-wide program this spring that is featured in its 20-store chain as well as catalog and website.

The collection includes dog collars, leashes, cushions, coats and carriers, plus the piece de resistance — Le Petite Settee, a scaled down version of the company's classic people design.

"Early response is good, but the real launch is this month; we're not fully stocked," said Heather Ryan, vp, sales and marketing. The retailer will have a full scale marketing program with a design contest similar to the one last year for its chair program. One designer per store market will be selected to participate and create a pet product. Pierre Deux will contribute the fabrics; voting will be on the company's website for a month with awards presented before Thanksgiving. Donations will be made to organizations for therapy and service animals, and a settee will be donated to the Cattle Baron's Ball in Dallas later this year.