LENOIR, N.C.–Hickory Chair Co. was named the first recipient of the Sage Award by the American Home Furnishings Alliance and Cargill’s BiOH polyols business unit yesterday at an awards reception held during the 2008 Sustainability Summit.
The award recognizes companies that are environmental leaders, strong contributors to their local community and remaining a profitable business. Judges in the competition cited Hickory Chair for its efforts to involve employees at every level in environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
“The education, engagement and inclusion of employees in continuous improvement is impressive,” one judge noted. “They were able to show the impact of the environmental changes that have been implemented. They’ve been strategic, but broad in their approach.”
Jay Reardon, president of Hickory Chair, acknowledged the company’s 570 employees in accepting the award.