Ethan Allen Maintains Its Competitive Edge During Its 2001 International Retail Convention.

Business Editors

DANBURY, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Nov. 5, 2001

The nation's leading home furnishings retailer and manufacturer Ethan Allen (NYSE:ETH) kicked off its 2001 International Retail Convention at its headquarters in Danbury, CT. More than 500 associates, including storeowners, sales managers and corporate personnel were present.

With the theme "Maintaining Our Competitive Edge," the four-day educational event had attendees examining new products and participating in seminars to help them better service consumers.

"As we operate a business during these turbulent economic times, we must continue to strengthen all areas of our business to ensure better service and grow to the next level," said Ethan Allen's Chairman and CEO, Farooq Kathwari. "We believe that our stylish new product introductions and innovative marketing strategies will make us more accessible to consumers."

Townhouse Collection

Inspired by classic 19th century European design, the new Townhouse collection is a blend of stately English Regency with a strong influence of French Louis Philippe styling. Townhouse's well-traveled look appeals to consumers with a taste for the classics and an appreciation for the art of fine craftsmanship.

Hand carvings, matched veneer inlay work, and delicate moldings are found throughout the collection. A strong and stately leather sleigh bed, with its delicately hand-carved panels on the head- and footboards recalls19th century England. Appropriate for entryways, dining areas, and living rooms, a versatile selection of consoles with inlaid mahogany demilunes, intricate carvings, marble tops, and serpentine hand-painted chinoiserie or burl bombe shapes blend perfectly with Townhouse.

Formal designs and rich materials are made comfortable and livable with warm and inviting antiqued finishes. Townhouse is primarily made of a combination of alder solids, cherry veneers, and white ash burl veneers. The versatility of the new collection is illustrated by new upholstery styles selected to complement the case goods.

Home & Garden

Ethan Allen expands its Home & Garden collection with the addition of Gazebo -- a classic wicker design, fashioned to withstand outdoor elements. Crafted of a specially formulated PVC (poly vinyl chloride, a thermoplastic resin) that is hand-woven to imitate wicker's natural beauty, its hand-applied dark honey finish provides a natural, antiqued shading effect.

Reinforcing Its One-Stop Shopping Message

Ethan Allen strengthens its position as a one-stop shopping home furnishings resource with additions to some of its most popular collections. For the ultimate dining room, three stunning china cabinets were introduced in the British Classics, Horizons by Ethan Allen, and Avenue collections. An eclectic mix of accessories was unveiled to blend with many of Ethan Allen's Casual and Classic collections from rugs, to lighting, wall decor and floral pieces.

All new product designs will be available to consumers in 2002.

Ethan Allen Interiors Inc., a leading manufacturer and retailer of quality home furnishings, sells a full range of products through an exclusive network of more than 300 stores. Stores are located in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and there are more than 18 overseas. The company has 18 manufacturing facilities and three sawmills throughout the United States. For more information, visit www.ethanallen.com or call 800.228.9229.