Unemployment dips to rate of 8.6%
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Friday morning reported the lowest national unemployment rate since March 2009.
The November rate of 8.6% is down 0.4 percentage points from 9.0% in October. A year ago, the unemployment rate stood at 9.8%, according to the bureau.
The employment situation report showed that the private sector added 140,000 jobs, as employment rose in a number of service-providing industries. Government employment continued to trend down.
Since reaching an employment trough in December 2009, retailers have added an average of 14,000 jobs per month. However, construction employment showed little movement in November. Employment in the construction industry has shown little change, on net, since early 2010.
New president for Delta, Brizo and Peerless
Indianapolis-based Delta Faucet Co., a division of Masco Corp., promoted VP sales Richard O’Reagan to the post of company president.
He replaces Keith Allman, who was promoted to group president for Masco.
O’Reagan will be responsible for leading the development of new products and overseeing manufacturing and marketing for the Delta, Brizo and Peerless brands. In a press release, he said he intended to build on the company’s strong brands, innovations and service, while also promoting advances in water efficiency.
He joined Delta Faucet Co. in 2008.
“Richard’s background in marketing and experience in systems engineering and driving strategic development will support Delta Faucet Co. as it continues to pave the way for innovation in residential and commercial settings,” Allman said.
Jon Dartt has been promoted to O’Reagan’s former position as VP sales at Delta Faucet Co., and Ken Roberts has been promoted to the position of VP trade sales.
Slipcover maker enters outdoor living category
Sure Fit Inc., a New York-based manufacturer of slipcovers, furniture covers and other home accessories, has acquired the assets of the Patio Armor brand of covers for patio furniture, barbecue grills and other outdoor products from Trilink Global. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
“This acquisition is an excellent fit with our stated growth strategy to expand our category leadership position through both organic means as well as synergistic, bolt-on acquisitions,” said Hugh Rovit, CEO of Sure Fit.
Tom Atchison, who has served as director of sales of the Trilink business since 2008, has joined Sure Fit as VP sales outdoor division.
Sure Fit’s product line includes ready-made slipcovers for sofas, loveseats, chairs, wing chairs, dining room chairs, recliners, ottomans, futons and folding chairs, as well as furniture throws. Additionally, Sure Fit carries coordinating decorative pillows, curtains, rugs, lamps, furniture, pet solutions and kitchen decor.
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Dec-02-2011 09:21 pm