todd wanek
Todd Wanek moved to Asia in 1989 to develop a manufacturing base in Taiwan, China, Malaysia and Indonesia, thereby establishing the cornerstone for the blended strategy of domestic production and offshore sourcing needed to grow Ashley Furniture Industries into the world’s largest furniture manufacturer. Today with 25 million sq. ft. of manufacturing and distribution space, and 30,000 employees, company sales exceed $6.4 billion annually.
Since becoming president and chief operating officer in 1996, and chief executive officer in 2002, Mr. Wanek has spearheaded manufacturing expansion into fabric, leather and motion upholstery; mattresses; outdoor; baby; and RTA furnishings, becoming the world’s largest manufacturer of furniture in 2005. The first Ashley HomeStore opened in 1997, growing into the #1 retailer of furniture and bedding ten years later. Today more than 1,025 stores are located in 60 countries. In 2015, an eCommerce website for Ashley HomeStores opened as part of their omnichannel initiative with direct-to-consumer delivery launched in 2018. Under his leadership, Ashley also has built one of the industry’s most efficient supply chains, capable of delivering furnishings to 95 percent of North America within one week. Committed to Ashley’s vision “To be the best furniture company,” his mantra is continuous improvement to cut costs and pass savings on to customers. Tens of millions of dollars are invested each year in people and technology to better serve consumers wherever and however they want to buy home furnishings.
Mr. Wanek’s company and family are generous supporters of community and international causes. He has invested heavily in sustainable agriculture through the creation of Superior Fresh, and through medical research, most notably to find the cure for Type 1 Diabetes through City of Hope and Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome through the Mayo Clinic. He has served on the Board of Directors of the American Home Furnishings Association and Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce. His many honors include the Anti-Defamation League American Heritage Award, the City of Hope Spirit of Life Award, and the International Home Furnishings Representatives Association Pillar of the Industry Award.