Reps Are Local Too Has New Collaboration

While the decorative residential lighting industry has not yet had success maintaining a rep-only organization – unlike the commercial side of the industry, which is comprised of large rep agencies – momentum for the Reps Are Local Too group is growing in the home décor sector with the announcement of a collaboration with the International Home Furnishings Representatives Association (IHFRA). Through this partnership, IHFRA has officially opened its membership to gift industry sales reps, offering an exclusive membership rate along with access to health insurance options and a suite of professional resources.

 “As the lines between categories continue to blur, one thing remains clear — sales reps are the backbone of our industry,” said Steve Allegrezza, executive director of IHFRA. “This initiative underscores our commitment to supporting sales representatives across industries with tangible benefits that improve their professional and personal well-being. We are excited to welcome gift reps into our membership and provide them with the same tools and resources that have long supported the home furnishings community.”

Wendy Buzzard, chair of the IHFRA board, added, “This partnership is about more than growing membership — it’s about building bridges across industries and strengthening the collective voice of sales professionals. Together, we’re ensuring that reps everywhere have the support, advocacy, and community they need to thrive.”

Cynthia Heathcoe, president of IHFRA, shared, “Reps aren’t just part of the industry — they’re at the heart of it. Expanding IHFRA’s reach to include gift reps isn’t only about growing membership; it’s about bringing together ideas, innovation, and representation from across every category. The future of our industry depends on our ability to evolve, and IHFRA is proud to help lead that progress.”