How's it Hanging, America?; New Level-Line Survey Reveals Consumer Hang-ups.

AUSTIN, Texas -- Americans level about their hang-ups - regarding wall decor, that is - in a survey conducted by Burnes Group to introduce Level-Line, revolutionary new wall decor with a built-in leveling system. The representative sampling of 821 respondents across the U.S. was conducted June 2004.

For most survey respondents, 68%, the main hang-up was either the challenge of hanging wall decor straight or in the right place. However, Americans are a self-sufficient bunch; 66% hang pictures or ledges themselves, while 28% let their significant others do it. They are also persistent, with 73% persevering until they hang it right.

As far as technique goes, half of the respondents describe their hanging style as "slow-and-steady" while 34% opt for the "fast-and-handy" approach. Only 10% consider themselves "all-thumbs."

Almost one-third of respondents have experienced a hanging disaster - with 65% finding the nail didn't hold, 55% saying they had too many nail holes, and 38% encountering crumbling plaster. Fortunately, only 1% has hit a pipe.

"Our research indicates that hanging frames and ledges is stressful," said Mark Vander Berg, Burnes Group director of advanced concepts. "Level-Line empowers consumers to get past their hang-ups, so they can display their wall decor level and in record time."

Why hang at all? Three-quarters of respondents say their wall decor is a source of pride and that nothing can match looking at pictures they love. For 29%, instant gratification is the goal with immediate hanging after purchase. Yet, because of hanging issues, most respondents, 52%, hang wall decor when they get around to it. Indeed, most pictures aren't hanging straight in respondent houses, with 59% indicating that their pictures are at least slightly askew.

With Level-Line, consumers can hang frames and ledges in under two minutes - secure, level, and flush to the wall. It is available at Kohl's, Linens 'n Things, Target, and Bed, Bath & Beyond. Suggested retail prices are $15 to $80. For more information, call toll-free 1-877-643-7263 or log onto www.level-line.com.

Burnes Group is the largest designer, marketer and manufacturer of photo frames, photo albums, and related photo storage and display products. The company is a division of Global Home Products, LLC, an affiliate of Cerberus Capital Management L.P.