The International Casual Furnishings Association (ICFA) has named finalists for the industry’s Sales Representative of the Year.

This award recognizes an outstanding sales representative within the casual furnishing industry. Finalists were selected based on leadership, professionalism, exceptional service, communication skills, knowledge and product training expertise. The 2015 winner will be selected from the four finalists through online voting of the ICFA membership.

John Benner. John represents Galtech Market Umbrellas, Ancient Mosaics, Patio Renaissance and R.H. Peterson Co. He and his business partner, Ronald O’Meara, started the Benner-O’Meara Company in 1982. Their first line was the H.J. Stotter line of tabletop accessories. Over their 30-plus years in the casual industry, they represented many of the top manufacturers, among them Brown Jordan, Cast Classics and Lloyd Flanders, providing dealers with both professional support and friendship.

Mark Cannon. Mark has been a part of the casual furniture industry since 1977. He spent 20 years with Samsonite Furniture, then became a sales representative for Woodard (1997 to 2003) and Gloster (1997 to 2004). He currently represents Ancient Mosaics, Winston, Brown Jordan and Gensun Casual Living in Illinois and Wisconsin. Winston named him sales rep of the year in 2011.

Mary Geiseman. Mary’s professional career started in Stuttgart, Germany, working for American Express. She later purchased a travel agency in Illinois when she returned to the United States. It grew to three locations before she sold it 18 years ago and began looking to open a new chapter in her life. The search led her to a sales rep position for Hanamint, and she has since added Patio Renaissance and Casual Cushion. She says the industry is a “delight” and she is thrilled to be a part of it.

Judy and Ed Hamer. A team for 50 years, Judy and Ed Hamer represent Gensun Casual Living, Windward Design Group and Classic Cushions. Ed began his career in the indoor furniture world, representing Pennsylvania House and Harden Furniture, while Judy was a sales rep in the gift and accessories industry. They later joined forces in the casual furniture industry, where they have had both fun and success. They emphasized building relationships and trust in developing their dealer network and consider themselves a part of every retailer’s team.

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