Scala broadens line to please buyers
By Marvin Lazaro -- Home Textiles Today, 2/12/2001
NEW YORK -In the wake of buyers' requests for more varied products, Scala International Inc. will introduce a greatly expanded line at this year's spring market.
Long known for its contemporary bedding and soft window coverings, the company, based here, will present a brand new line of towels, rugs, fine bed linens, table linens and ceramics as well as fabric-by-the-yard.
"We're going to be presenting a more well-rounded line of products," said Chip Scala, president of the home textiles manufacturer. "We wanted to be very flexible in what we do."
All of the new products, he added, will adhere to the company's clean, contemporary look. Scala International's design team will utilize textural, solid-color fabrics for the new home textiles products.
The idea to expand the company's product base came from buyers who visited the company's former showroom at 261 Fifth Avenue in New York. Many, Scala explained, would ask for the same patterns used for the bedding and window coverings for towels or for accessories. Unable to offer those items at the time, Scala made the decision after last year's fall market to branch out with product for consumers hoping to furnish more than just the bedroom. Scala also moved the company's showroom space to 230 Fifth.
"I always observed that our offering wasn't enough for what retailers wanted," Scala said of the decision to change.
"I want to give customers something different, that is not different just for different's sake," he continued. "We're definitely going to have a look that is not the same as everyone else."
The new rugs will be made of dhurrie wool and will be imported from India. Various sizes, patterns and designs will be offered. The towels will be from Pakistan and Egypt, while the table linens will come from Italy, China and India. The new ceramics will be from the U.S., while Turkey will supply the fabric for the soft window coverings.
Fabric-by-the-yard will also be added to Scala's showroom for the first time. Ranging from linen to silk, the new program will enable Scala to specifically meet a buyer's needs and tailor its products, either for a private-label or under the Scala brand name.
The news that Scala International was branching out was met with interest from customers, Scala said.
"Flexibility and good creative design is what will drive our success," Scala said.
