By Lissa Wyman

RINGGOLD, GA -- Shaw Living is greatly expanding its World Market imported rug program with the introduction of five new collections at this Summer's markets. "In the past, we have been known primarily as a U.S. rug manufacturer, and now we are truly a fully diversified, full service source," said Jim Curtin, vice president of sales.

Shaw Living launched the World Market program in January 2013 with the introduction of six hand tufted and hooked collections. In addition, the company introduced two imported machine-made indoor-outdoor collection.

"The new collections don't compete with the U.S-made rugs, they augment our domestically lines," Curtin stressed. "The new rugs were all inspired, colored and styled for the U.S. market."

But Shaw's entry into the hand made rug sphere is not just about style and color. The World Market program brings Shaw's financial capabilities and sophisticated distribution systems to a new retailing channel --  the independent rug retailer specializing in hand made rugs.

"We are bringing the power of Shaw Floors to the rug business," said Curtin.

"Our primary focus will always be our domestic machine made business, but we want to offer a full line of products to our rug customers, so we can be a true one-stop shop. Almost all items will be in stock for immediate delivery. "

Since the first introduction of five World Market collections in January, the Shaw Living/Tuftex sales team has enthusiastically embraced the World Market rugs, according to Curtin. "This move gives our sales people a significantly more opportunities to call on independent retail accounts," he said. 

Shaw Living’s World Market umbrella includes five new collections with  a total of 36 rugs.  Styles include traditional, global and contemporary designs. All are made in India.

Shaw World Market Cosmopolitan Collection

Cosmopolitan features traditional motifs in bold contemporary palettes. Hand-tufted cut and loop construction. Suggested retail is $679 in 5x8.

Shaw World Market French Quarter Collection

French Quarter is made of wool.  Hand tufted in cut and loop construction. Suggested retail is $829 in 5x8.

Shaw World Market Emerson Collection

Emerson is a contemporary collection in simple, structured designs and modern palettes. Hand tufted with carving. Suggested retail is $629 in 5x8.

Shaw World Market Palmetto Bay Collection

Palmetto Bay is  hand loomed of wool in a flat weave construction. Suggested retail is $899 in 5x8.

Shaw World Market Portside Collection

Portside features casual contemporary styling.  Hand tufted, cut and loop construction. Suggested retail is $579 .

07.7.13