ICFA names Henry Vanderminden IV as chair of board of directors

HIGH POINT — The International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA) has named Henry J.W. Vanderminden IV as the 2025 chair of its board of directors. Vanderminden, president of Telescope Casual Furniture, brings decades of leadership and industry insight to the role, building on his family’s legacy in outdoor furnishings that spans more than a century.

Reflecting on recent years, Vanderminden emphasized the need for industry-wide collaboration to maintain the momentum gained during the pandemic-driven surge in outdoor furniture demand.

“Continuing that pandemic peak requires the efforts of every segment of our industry,” he said. “Participating in Casual Market Atlanta – the greatest display of outdoor furniture in the world – is the most powerful way for ICFA members to ensure their companies’ success.”

Vanderminden’s connection to the ICFA dates back to 1987, when he attended his first association meeting at Casual Market Chicago alongside his father, Henry “Hank” J.W. Vanderminden III. That early exposure to industry networking inspired him to expand his involvement, eventually serving as chair of the board from 1999 to 2000.

Now returning to the role, he views the relocation of Casual Market from Chicago to Atlanta as a key example of the ICFA’s forward-thinking strategies.

“The relocation of Casual Market from Chicago to Atlanta is a perfect example of a powerful business-building strategy the association can provide,” Vanderminden said, noting that the new venue at AmericasMart in Atlanta offers a modern design and 30% more space, organized across floors 2-7 of the renovated building.

Buyers attending the July and September markets also benefit from enhanced incentives, including a travel subsidy program co-developed by the ICFA and Andmore. Retailers can receive funding for two hotel rooms for two nights, with an additional night covered for ICFA members. “If a retailer chooses to join the ICFA, they pay the $300 membership fee and immediately receive the full incentive,” Vanderminden explained.

For manufacturers, cost-cutting measures include early registration discounts and free product storage for temporary exhibitors committing to both summer and fall shows. “Telescope was once a temporary exhibitor at the market. It is a smart, strategic first step for companies just starting or expanding their product lines,” he noted.

Beyond the markets, Vanderminden highlighted the ICFA’s commitment to member education through initiatives such as the Elevate Educational Conference and the Retailer Roundtable held before each market.

As he begins his tenure, Vanderminden expressed gratitude for the foundation laid by past ICFA boards and the leadership of Executive Director Jackie Hirschhaut. “Our strategies for growth will build our membership and expand our influence on the global casual furnishing market,” he said.

See also:

l