Harounian Rugs International co-founder David Harounian.
NEW YORK – Reflecting over the past 60 years in the area rug industry, Harounian Rugs International (HRI), one of the leading manufacturers of premium quality rugs and floor coverings, continues to be a force in the industry. Under the leadership of its founder, David Harounian, a pioneer in the area rug business, HRI has an extensive global client base, including many of the world's largest celebrated retailers and designers.
Harounian Rugs International (HRI) is truly one of the most respected and successful organizations of its kind with a long and rich history dating back to the industry’s nascency. In 1963, the Oriental Rug Industry was a small industry, and the rug business was in the hands of only a few major importers as well as wholesalers. Most rugs were imported from Iran at that time. As the industry gradually evolved and more importers came into the picture, imports from Iran, India, Pakistan, China, and Romania became the main sources of production.
The Oriental Rug Importers Association was established by several Industry leaders whose mission was to foster ethical business practices and promote the best interests of ORIA in the United States. The industry was in the hands of a very few capable importers who had great foresight and took the industry to the next level, where it is today.
In 1996, David Harounian, after having served as the Vice president of the association, had the privilege of being elected to its presidency. At that time, the presidency was limited to only 2 years, but since the association had unfinished industry responsibilities, its by-laws were changed so that Mr. Harounian could subsequently serve for an additional 2-year term, which was unprecedented.
During his presidency from 1996-1999, David, along with his brother Lee Harounian, had the privilege of establishing schools and healthcare centers in the rug weaving belts of India and Pakistan. These were mainly created for children of the rug weavers who otherwise would not have had many educational opportunities. Several other industry members, including AmericaMart Atlanta, followed suit in further establishing schools and care centers, many of which are still serving these communities to this day.
Throughout the years Mr. Harounian has received many recognitions and awards from the industry as well as humanitarian awards and others. In 2012 Mr. Harounian had the honor of being recognized as the recipient of AmericasMart's highest award, the "AmericasMart President's Award”, in recognition of his superior accomplishments in the international rug and home industry.
Today, HRI has showrooms in Las Vegas and High Point Markets along with headquarters in New York City.
For further details, visit https://hrirugs.com/.