Kea Capel starts own company

PINEHURST, NC — After 16 years at Capel Inc. working for her father and two uncles, Kea Capel has resigned to launch her own rug and textiles company, Kea Capel Inc., along with a silent partner.

Capel said she owns "a significant portion" of Kea Capel Inc., with the remainder owned by a partner Capel identified only as a multiple category producer.

"This whole idea began with my long-time desire to own my own company," Capel told HTT. Her plan is to launch the first line — five collections of braided rugs, three of those collections made of 100 percent cotton and two made of 100 percent wool — in March at the New York Home Textiles Market. Kea Capel Inc. will be sharing showroom space at 295 Fifth Avenue with braided rug supplier Homemaker. Capel has subcontracted Homemaker, which operates a factory in Mexico, to manufacture and distribute her braided rugs and also to assist with back office and sales support.

Over the next year the new company will add constructions of area rugs from overseas, including felt from India and other styles from China, as well as enter new categories, including bedding, table linens and window coverings.

Capel's line will target independent furniture stores, catalogs and specialty chains. The first initiative involves production of private-label goods, but an open line under the Kea Capel Inc. brand will also be offered at spring market.