New Lifestyle CEO Michael Shea (left) and Pat Stern (Rooms to Go, Seffner, Florida). James Riddle is retiring as Lifestyle CEO. and RTG’s Ed Rubin shared a moment at a lifestyle party celebrating Riddle’s distinguished career.
HIGH POINT — Lifestyle Enterprises will honor James Riddle, who is retiring as chairman of Lifestyle Corporation after more than 50 years in the furniture industry, at the High Point Market this week.
Prior to joining Lifestyle Enterprises, Riddle held senior positions in the industry including merchandising executives at Helig Meyers, Rhodes Furniture, and other retailers. He also held executive positions with major domestic and import furniture companies.
Lifestyle insiders noted that his extensive experience not only contributed to the success of these organizations, but also fostered lifelong friendships and earned him the respect of his industry peers.
Earlier this week, Lifestyle Enterprises CEO Michael Shea hosted a celebratory luncheon in Riddle’s honor. “James is my teacher, mentor, friend and family member,” Xie said. “His accomplishments are numerous and the list of friends he has made in the industry over the years is endless. Thank you very much.”
Other industry leaders also reflected on Riddle’s career and friendship.
rachel stewart
“James Riddle has given so much not only to the industry but to the people who work in it,” said Rachel Stewart, CEO of Detroit-based Gardner White. “He was a mentor to me and others.Early in my career, he sent me to Asia with his team for a true Case Goods education. We compared the places we stayed near and the nice hotels in the city that have been paying dividends ever since.
“This person has also evolved with the times and continues to have the latest and forward-thinking ideas to this day,” she added. “James is also a master at creating retail velocity that we can all leverage today.”
Sean Cantrell
“I had the privilege of working with James during the last three years of his remarkable career,” said PRI President Sean Cantrell. “It didn’t take us long to realize that he has an extraordinary heart, a passion for the industry, a passion for his team, and that he is one of the most loyal partners a customer could have.James is a man of his word. , who supported you during the most difficult times.”
Pat Stern
“James has been a great friend for many years. When we worked together, he gave me many opportunities and supported me every step of the way,” said Rooms to Seffner, Florida. Go President Pat Stern said. “James was a mentor to many. I feel very fortunate to have known and worked with him and wish him every success in his next chapter. He will be missed. ”
The Lifestyle Enterprises family wishes Riddle all the best as he embarks on a new chapter in his life.
See also: Get fired up for this week’s High Point Market
