Umbra and its co-founders—Les Mandelbaum and Paul Rowan—will be honored with the Gift For Life Industry Achievement Award during the Gifts & Decorative Accessories 60th Annual Retailer Excellence Awards (REA) on Sunday, August 19, 2012, in New York City.
Umbra began in 1979 with a single design of printed paper window shades. The company’s products have since become design icons and continuing best-sellers in the marketplace. The curvaceous Garbino Can sits in the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art; even more designs have received international design recognition.
With products available at over 35,000 retailers, in over 100 countries, Umbra’s award winning design team (over 30 men and women from all around the world) have introduced products for every room in the home. The company maintains its reputation by staying true to Les and Paul’s original philosophy: that everyday objects can be a source of pleasure when reinvented to combine function with modern technology, stylish design, and wit.
“Les and Paul’s dedication to design excellence and decades of product stewardship make them worthy recipients of this honor,” said Leslie Nathan-Street, chair of the Gift for Life board. “We are proud to present the Industry Achievement Honor to a visionary company and founders who continue to challenge and excite the industry.”
“More than three decades ago a simple idea grew into a company with lots of creative minds, compelling products and support from thoughtful customers,” said Les Mandelbaum, co-founder. “On behalf of the entire Umbra family around the world we humbly accept this award.”
Gifts & Decorative Accessories’ Retailer Excellence Awards recognize excellence in retailing and individual achievement. Introduced in 1951, the REA’s are the industry’s most established and prestigious honors awards. During this festive industry gathering, 2012 finalists will be recognized, retail category winners will be announced, special recognition awards will be presented and Gift For Life’s Industry Achievement Award will be presented. Tickets $185 each, including cocktails and dinner, are available through www.giftsanddec.com.
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