HIGH POINT, NC - John Bassett III, chairman of Vaughan-Bassett Furniture Co., will receive the Pillar of the Industry award by the International Home Furnishings Representatives Association (IHFRA) during the Spring High Point Market next month.

A third-generation furniture maker, Bassett's career has extended 53 years, including the last 29 years at Vaughan-Bassett of Galax, VA. Prior to that he held numerous positions at Bassett Furniture,including plant manager, sales and marketing and president.Bassett Furniture was founded by Bassett's grandfather, J.D. Bassett Sr.

Vaughan-Bassett is considered the largest wooden bedroom manufacturer in the United States, with annual sales of approximately $84 million and employing about 700 people. Recently, John Bassett III recenlty demonstrated his commitment to U.S. manufacturing in purchasing a former Webb furniiture factory in Galax with plans to reopen it and create at least 115 new jobs.

Bassett was instrumental in helping lead the successful wooden bedroom anti-dumping case that resulted in duties on wood bedroom furniture from China. He is a past president of the American Home Furnishings Alliance and former chairman of the International Woodworkng Fair (IWF) held in Atlanta.

IFHRA created the Pillar of the Industry Award to recognize industry leaders who distinguish themselves with creative work and effort to improve, enhance, and benefit relationships among representatives and other segments of the industry.

Most recent Pillar of the Industry recipients include Kevin Sauder, president and CEO of Sauder Woodworking, 2011; and Jeff Cook, president of Broyhill Industries, 2010.

The Furniture Industry Awards Gala will be held Monday, April 23, in the IHFC Ballroom on the 11th Floor of the Green Wing.