Suppliers Division Home Page
Added to AHFA Website

The Suppliers Division now has its own home page on the AHFA website, www.ahfa.us. One click on the words “Suppliers Division” on the right-hand side of the AHFA home page takes members and prospective members directly to the new area, which has been customized to serve the information needs of supplier companies.

The Suppliers Division logo sits atop a tool bar providing quick links to membership requirements, discount programs, supplier events, publications, and other Supplier Division resources. The “Events” column features a link to the International Woodworking and Machinery Supply Fair website.

Any Supplier Division members with suggestions for improving the Supplier Division page are invited to contact Patricia Bowling, Director of Communications, at 336/884-5000, ext. 106, or pbowling@ahfa.us.

High Point Transportation Hub
Will Greet October Market-Goers

When market-goers arrive in High Point this October, they will be greeted by a new multi-million dollar transportation center designed to quicken the pace at market.

Meet the new car-free, carefree International Home Furnishings Market. Called MAX – short for Market Authority X-press – the system reportedly will simplify getting around High Point from the time market-goers step off the plane to the time they head home.

“We asked the industry what kind of transportation they needed to simplify their market experience,” said Judy Mendenhall, president of the International Home Furnishings Market Authority. “They told us they want a streamlined, yet more flexible system that runs frequently and reliably.”

MAX will incorporate transportation from Charlotte, Raleigh and Greensboro airports to Traid-area hotels, and from Triad-area hotels to the market. It will include transportation between major showroom complexes, as well as stops at independent showrooms.

“MAX is designed to give the market community choices, whether you are a member of a major buying team, an interior designer, a sales representative or an exhibitor.”

Located on Commerce Street between the International Home Furnishings Center and Showplace, the $4.1 million transportation hub will include an information kiosk listing ongoing arrival and departure times for the fleet of more than 20 buses, which will travel continuously along 13 routes. Trained travel hosts will provide one-on-one guidance and assistance.

Designed by a Winston-Salem-based architectural firm, the facility combines technology and transportation in a light and airy garden setting. The first phase adds three bus lanes, comfortable seating for waiting passengers and an octagonal information kiosk. Color-coded bus bays will help direct passengers.

The second phase, set for completion by October 2006, will add multi-level transparent panels that curve upward to form a soaring roofline for sheltered walkways and waiting lounges.

“Gone are the chaotic days of placards and a traffic director with a bullhorn,” said Mendenhall. “This system will be second to none.”

Between markets, the area will be engineered for staging outdoor events with theatrical lighting and electrical facilities. The kiosk will promote upcoming High Point functions and events.