clement “clem” m. lange
Clement “Clem” Lange, founder and chairman of the board of directors for Best Home Furnishings, built the domestic upholstery manufacturing company on the principal to build the best quality product at the most affordable price and to do it more efficiently than the competition. Today, with more than 2,400 styles and options in more than 700 fabrics and leathers, orders are completed in just five working days. Each day approximately 4,000 products are produced.
With his brilliant self-taught engineering mind, Mr. Lange became a technology and efficiency leader. In the 1970s he computerized manufacturing operations, setting strict production standards and developing close vendor relationships – all before the term lean manufacturing was invented. In the 1990s, he implemented a new high-tech computer system to further shorten deliveries of its chairs, recliners, loveseats and sofas; swivel rockers and gliders; upholstered benches and occasional tables.
Best Chairs began in 1962 as a modest five-person operation repairing furniture and truck seats in an old cannery building in Ferdinand, Ind. The family-owned business acquired several manufacturing operations and today employs 850 people at seven facilities, which produce custom upholstery furniture that is sold around the world. Committed to being environmentally responsible, the company embraces five pillars of success: USA built, speed, selection, quality and value. All three of his sons, lone daughter, and most of his nine grandchildren continue to work in the business.
Mr. Lange is an avid collector and restorer of vintage automobiles, including being a seven-time finisher of the transcontinental Great Race for pre-1960 cars. Known for his high personal character, Mr. Lange and his wife, Mary C., have demonstrated great philanthropy in their communities. They were the lead donors for the creation of the Lange-Fuhs Cancer Treatment Center at Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center in Jasper, Ind., as well as the Tri-County YMCA in Ferdinand. Other groups that have benefited from their generosity include the Dubois County Community Foundation; the St. Henry, Holland and Ferdinand Volunteer Fire Departments; the St. Henry Catholic Church; and the Ferdinand, Holland and Huntingburg Parks.