WINCHESTER, VA - Bill Martin has been named national sales director for Rugs Direct, according to David Craig, chief executive officer.

Martin has more than 25 years' experience in merchandising, buying, product development, strategic planning and sales development. "I am excited to join Rugs Direct and to help the company develop its innovative showroom, catalog and web sales model. This is a tremendous opportunity," Martin said.

"Martin's appointment demonstrates our continued commitment to the area rug industry and a further step in our goal of  increasing sales and marketing efforts throughout North America," said Craig.

Martin's experience includes leadership roles in sales, management and merchandising. He was previously president of Shipley's Trading and also worked as a sales representative for Oriental Weavers of America, Colonial Mills, Par-Inco and Radici,USA. Earlier, he was vice president of merchandising for Channel Home Centers and has worked in various retail capacities since 1975.

Martin has relocated to Winchester, VA where he will be focusing on the continued development of the Rugs Direct prototype retail showroom and the company's new catalog initiatives.