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NORTH BRUNSWICK, N.J. – Looking to expand its Midwest footprint, Bedding Industries of America has named Paul Kenis vice president of business development for the region.
In his new role, Kenis will work with the company’s sales representatives and retailers in the Midwest. He reports to Philip Carlitz, chief operating officer.
Kenis brings more than 25 years of industry experience to the new role. He is responsible for growing Bedding Industries of America’s business throughout Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, North Dakota, South Dakota, Western Pennsylvania, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska and Wisconsin. Those are the states the Chicago factory serves.
Bedding Industries of America acquired Illinois Sleep Products in 2022. The Chicago-based company had been a long-time licensee. The acquisition rounded out the company’s three-factory strategy with facilities on the West Coast, the Midwest and the Northeast.
Carlitz said Kenis’ knowledge of the furniture and mattress industry, as well as his track record in business development and strategic planning, make him a valuable addition to the BIA leadership team.
“Paul’s extensive experience and regional knowledge make him the ideal candidate to lead our efforts,” Carlitz said. “We are confident that his leadership will drive significant growth and success for our efforts in the Midwest.”
Prior to joining Bedding Industries of America, Kenis held a business development role with The Bedding Group, a mattress manufacturer with locations in Illinois and Minnesota. In addition to his sales role in the mattress business, Kenis was a field consultant with Henry Schein, a medical and dental supply distributor. Kenis was also the operations manager for his family’s Albert Lea, Minn.-based Morris Furniture, a one-store, full-line retailer.
“It’s undeniable why BIA has such a storied legacy and is recognized as a leader in the bedding industry,” Kenis said. “I’m astounded by the breadth of its portfolio of brands and its aggressive growth over the past couple of years. Add in that the leadership team is second to none. It’s an exciting time to join the BIA team and I’m looking forward to contributing to the company’s future successes.”
