ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
2024
This report is interactive Use the headings at the
introduction
massively transformative purpose
To inspire the love of home and enrich the lives of those around us by being the most innovative and competitive furniture company on the planet. we are proud to be a family company. In a world that’s constantly changing, one thing remains the same — our commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience. As a familyowned company, we pride ourselves on treating everyone we serve with the utmost kindness, compassion and care. This philosophy has been the foundation of our 80-year history and has helped us become a globally recognized brand.
a letter from our CEO
As we turn the page on another transformative year, I am proud to reflect on the Ashley family of companies’ unwavering commitment to our customers, our communities and the environment. Our success has always been rooted in our ability to adapt, innovate and serve, and this year has been no exception.
At Ashley, we believe that our responsibility extends far beyond providing quality furniture. We continuously strive to reinvent ourselves through product relevance, operational excellence and technological advancement. Our blended global strategy has allowed us to leverage the strengths of diverse markets, ensuring we remain at the forefront of our industry.
This past year, we’ve made significant strides in our continuous improvement initiatives. By embracing cutting-edge technologies and refining our processes, we’ve not only enhanced our product offerings but also elevated our ability to serve our customers more efficiently and effectively. This commitment to innovation continues to create more value and award-winning experiences for our customers.
Our success as a company has always been intertwined with the well-being of our communities and employees. We’re proud to be making a positive impact beyond our showrooms, manufacturing and distribution facilities through environmental stewardship and investing in community initiatives, while supporting our employees in their growth.
As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to our core values of honesty & integrity, passion, drive and discipline, growth focused and continuous improvement. We will continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in our industry, always with an eye toward creating better homes, better communities and a better world. In the pages to come, you will discover how our dedication to Corporate Social Responsibility will chart our course and continue to inspire the love of home and enrich the lives of others around us by being the most innovative and competitive furniture company on the planet.
Todd R. Wanek, President and CEO Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC
In 2024, we proudly accepted these awards from the following organizations:
Wellness Council of America, Bronze Well Workplace Award
LLC Home Furnishings Association, Manufacturer of the Year ASHLEY
Newsweek, America’s Best Loyalty Program
ASHLEY ORANGE REWARDS
American Trucking Association, Industrial Safety Contest – 2nd Place
ASHLEY DISTRIBUTION SERVICES, INC.
Florida Council on Economic Education, Tampa Bay Business Hall of Fame
TODD WANEK, PRESIDENT AND CEO
ASHLEY FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, LLC
Furniture Today, Titan of the Industry
TODD WANEK, PRESIDENT AND CEO
ASHLEY FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, LLC
Furniture Today, Woman of Influence
LAURA FORSYTHE
ASHLEY FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, LLC
Women’s Choice Awards, Best Company to Work for Millennials
ASHLEY GLOBAL RETAIL, LLC
Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association, Fleet Safety Award
ASHLEY DISTRIBUTION SERVICES, INC.
Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, Hall of Fame
RONALD WANEK, FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN
ASHLEY FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, LLC
Reader Rankings, Company Most Likely to Give Back
ASHLEY FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, LLC
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Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC
about us
With a history dating back to 1945, Ashley Furniture Industries (AFI) has grown to become the world’s largest manufacturer of home furnishings. This family-owned company had just 35 employees and 35,000 square feet of facility space in 1970. Now, we employ approximately 16,000 valued teammates across the Unites States and boast more than 30 million square feet (or 690 acres) globally in manufacturing and distribution facility space. AFI is committed to delivering the world’s best home furnishing values, selection and service. We believe in earning the loyalty and trust of our customers each and every day.
2024 we’re proud to:
Contribute over $4.16 billion annually to the U.S. economy in
Support more than 7,835 U.S. vendors/businesses
Create 4.4 U.S. jobs with each manufacturing job
Infuse the economy in 155 countries by supplying our furniture to more than 20,000 storefronts
One of the Largest Single Rooftop Solar Installations in the Country Leesport, PA
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Ashley Global Retail, LLC
about us
From the moment we opened our doors in 1997, we’ve been committed to helping you create your dream home and most cherished family memories. We’ve continuously refreshed everything from our product selection and store layouts to our logo, ensuring we offer everything you need to inspire your vision.
At Ashley, we’re passionate about helping you create the home of your dreams — whatever that looks like to you. From our 2016 rebranding as Ashley HomeStore to the launch of Ashley and Ashley Outlet experiences in 2022, we offer inspiration and value. As the largest furniture store brand in North America and globally, we understand that home is the backdrop for life’s most cherished moments.
so, why Ashley?
Easy Shopping Experience: Shopping for your home should be seamless and straightforward. Whether you are engaging with us in-store or online, you’ll find the products, services, resources and support you need on your terms.
Purposeful: Making a difference matters to us, and we know it matters to you. We proudly support and give back to our communities so you can feel good about where you shop.
Functional Assortment: You’ll find a broad assortment of products and styles that will allow you to create the space you’ve always wanted with added services and benefits for the perfect shopping experience.
Affordable Styles: We will always bring you the latest on-trend styles, priced right, so you can confidently create a space that reflects your own personal style.
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Ashley Distribution Services, Inc.
about us
Ashley Distribution Services (ADS) was established in 1974 by Ashley Furniture Industries (AFI) and delivers Ashley furniture to Ashley retail stores and customers throughout the U.S. With a growing fleet, ADS continues to expand beyond delivering furniture, including for-hire service for the handling and transport of beverages, consumer packaged goods, raw materials and more.
ADS has become a go-to provider for full truckload, heavy-haul, and drayage freight services from coast to coast, offering yard management services, dedicated fleets, truck leasing, independent contractors and power-only options. Today, ADS is one of the industry’s largest motor carriers with a combined total of more than 1,500 tractors and more than 5,000 trailers.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2024
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global footprint
Ashley is a global multi-faceted manufacturing, distribution and retail business with:
RETAIL LOCATIONS
Antigua
Armenia
Aruba
Australia
Azerbaijan
Bahamas
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Barbados
Belize
Bermuda
Bolivia
Brunei
Cambodia
Chile
Colombia
Costa Rica
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
Georgia
Ghana
Grand Cayman
Greece
Guatemala
Guyana
Honduras
India
Indonesia
Iraq
Jamaica
Japan
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kuwait
Malawi
Malaysia
Mauritius
Mexico
Mongolia
Morocco
Myanmar
Nepal
New Zealand
Palestine
Panama
Paraguay
Philippines
Puerto Rico
Russia
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
South Africa
South Korea
St. Kitts
St. Maarten
Suriname
Thailand
Trinidad and Tobago
Turkey
United Arab Emirates
Uganda
U.S. Virgin Islands
Uzbekistan
Vietnam
Zambia
GLOBAL OFFICES
DOMESTIC
Arcadia, WI
Charlotte, NC
Ybor City, FL
INTERNATIONAL
Bengalore, India
Chennai, India
Gurgaon, India
Muar, Malaysia
Shenzhen, China
Shanghai, China
INTERNATIONAL
SOURCING LOCATIONS
India
Indonesia
Malaysia
Southern China
Vietnam
MANUFACTURING AND DISTRIBUTION CENTERS
DOMESTIC
Advance, NC
Arcadia, WI
Brandon, FL
Chippewa Falls, WI
Colton, CA
East Point, GA
Ecru, MS
Independence, WI
Lathrop, CA
Leesport, PA
Mesquite, TX
Redlands, CA
Ripley, MS
Saltillo, MS
Spanaway, WA
Verona, MS
Whitehall, WI
INTERNATIONAL
Ba Ria Vung Tau, Vietnam
Ben Cat Town, Vietnam
Binh Duong City, Vietnam
Lai Uyen Town, Vietnam
Quang Ngai, Vietnam
Tan Uyen Town, Vietnam
Thu Dau Mot, Vietnam
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
community
Our purpose: to inspire the love of home and enrich the lives of those around us.
Home is more than just four walls; it’s about creating a space for communities to come together and thrive. That’s why we actively reach out to those in need, providing unwavering support and creating opportunities to unite and empower them.
Enriching lives extends beyond furniture. For everyone at the Ashley family of companies, it involves a deep commitment to caring for our cherished communities and helping them thrive.
ASHLEY
honoring our military & first responders
SOLDIERS WALK MEMORIAL PARK
SPECIAL EVENTS
AIDING HEROES 01 SECTION
OPERATION SHUT EYE
Our commitment: extend gratitude. We salute the bravery of our United States Military and first responders by hosting a variety of events and donating to those who have served our country and local communities.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
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did you know?
Soldiers Walk Memorial Park was voted one of the top five military museums in the U.S. It is referred to as the country’s premier war memorial outside of Washington, D.C.
Soldiers Walk Memorial Park
While Ron Wanek, Founder and Chairman of Ashley Furniture Industries (AFI), has a long list of philanthropic endeavors, the one he holds most dear is Soldiers Walk. Situated in Memorial Park in Arcadia, Wisconsin, this 500-meter walk serves as a tribute to all U.S. wars and conflicts, featuring monuments and memorials arranged chronologically. As the lead benefactor of this significant space, Mr. Wanek’s deep love for his country inspired him to create a sacred place that honors the leaders and veterans who fought to secure the freedoms and opportunities we cherish today. Learn more
special events
annual community events hosted by the Ashley family of companies
Wreaths Across America ceremony
Ashley Distribution Services (ADS) proudly supports Wreaths Across America, an organization that honors and remembers veterans for their service. ADS designates an “Honor Fleet” of trucks to haul wreaths to multiple cemeteries across the country for wreath-laying ceremonies. Since 2017, ADS has hauled 52 loads of more than 233,000 wreaths to nearly 280 cemeteries. In addition, AFI has co-hosted and sponsored an annual Wreaths Across America event at Memorial Park in Arcadia, Wisconsin, since 2016.
In 2024, ADS delivered 42,366 wreaths to 40 different cemeteries across the country.
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flag-raising ceremonies
On Memorial Day, employees from AFI, ADS and Ashley, along with U.S. Military members, gather for flag-raising ceremonies to reflect on the day’s significance. This year marked the 8th consecutive ceremony honoring the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
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Operation Shut Eye
superior sleep for the elite few
Operation Shut Eye is a program in partnership with Tempur-Sealy International® and Darkhorse Benefits, a non-profit organization. Ashley has pledged to donate a total of 25,000 Tempur-Pedic® mattresses to members of our U.S. Special Operations Forces by 2029 to provide a great sleep to those who allow us to sleep peacefully and safely each night. Additionally, Operation Shut Eye provides much-needed support to severely injured service members as identified by the Special Operations Command’s Warrior Care Coalition.
Our teams continue to make this program a priority because it helps our armed forces get a good night’s sleep— one they so graciously deserve for all that they do.
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Our Accomplishments YEAR-TO-DATE
Q1 JAN - MAR 816 Q3 JULY - SEPT 541 Q2 APR - JUNE 601 Q4 OCT - DEC 714
TOTAL DONATIONS MADE IN 2024
2,672
TOTAL DONATIONS TO DATE
14,841 TO DARKHORSE BENEFITS, IN SUPPORT OF OUR U.S. SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES.
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aiding heroes
helping our local communities
We honor the selfless acts of our first responders, who answer the call of duty and put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. We also recognize our dedicated employees who serve as volunteer officers or EMTs, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the health and safety of those around them. We are proud to have them as part of our Ashley family.
In 2024, Ashley Furniture Industries (AFI) donated to the National Fire Safety Council and Chippewa Falls Fire Department to provide students with education on fire safety. AFI granted the Arcadia Fire Department a donation towards a new fire truck to better serve the local area.
Ashley also donated furniture to local Las Vegas first responders to transform their space to enjoy during their time at the station.
In total, AFI and Ashley have supported more than 40 local fire, police and EMT departments across the country.
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advancing medical research
CITY OF HOPE HEARTWORKS
Our commitment: support science and medical research. We bring awareness to cause-worthy organizations that are at the forefront of accelerating medical breakthroughs and enhancing care.
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City of Hope
The Wanek Family Project, supported through a partnership between the Wanek Family and City of Hope, is wholly focused on finding cures for type 1 diabetes (T1D)—a disease where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin—a hormone needed to regulate blood sugar—an essential life function. Since its launch in 2017, the project is advanced by a super-star team of researchers, Debbie Thurmond, PhD; Alberto Pugliese, MD; D, and Adolfo Garcia-Ocaña, PhD.
They believe the best cure for T1D is one that both calms the immune system that attacks cells that produce insulin, and regrows the cells, Beta Cells, that produce insulin. Recently, Dr. Garcia-Ocaña published a landmark article demonstrating the near-term potential to regrow beta cells in the human body—a cornerstone of a real cure for T1D. This breakthrough holds transformative potential not only for newly diagnosed patients but also for those with established disease.
City of Hope’s drug development infrastructure and a powerful 9-site consortium accelerate clinical trials and fast-track innovative therapies makes City of Hope an ideal place to advance T1D research. City of Hope can take therapies from concept through production and clinical trials. Additionally, bolstered by a recent $170 million investment from donors, City of Hope now serves as an international epicenter for pancreas research, advancing the understanding of this essential organ that is home to beta cells and also the site of one of the deadliest cancers.
With 53+ research projects advanced, 3 novel therapeutic platforms, 4 in-human clinical trials, and 9 strategic partnerships with leading T1D centers, City of Hope is advancing toward cures and providing hope to millions impacted by T1D. Three new trials are slated to launch in 2025. These efforts exemplify how collaboration and innovation can drive life-changing breakthroughs toward curing diabetes.
53+ in-human clinical trials
4 3 novel therapeutic platforms research projects advanced
9 leading T1D center partnerships
< 4 years
to bring CARTreg from lab to clinical trial
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Thanks to the Wanek family’s philanthropic vision, City of Hope has made significant progress in type 1 diabetes research, pushing the boundaries of what is possible. Their work exemplifies how research, collaboration, and innovation can lead to life-changing breakthroughs, moving closer to the ultimate goal: finding cures for type 1 diabetes.
ASHLEY CORPORATE
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HeartWorks
Leading the largest congenital heart defect consortium in the world focused on developing new treatment options.
HeartWorks builds, tests and delivers new therapies to cure congenital heart defects (CHD). HeartWorks is a non-profit foundation with an established track record of bringing scientific discoveries out of the lab and directly into hospitals. HeartWorks was created in 2020 to accelerate and expand the product development pipeline pioneered by the Todd and Karen Wanek Family Program for Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS), founded at Mayo Clinic in 2010.
The goal of HeartWorks is to create new heart tissue and ultimately cure CHD. HeartWorks has formed a nationwide research consortium and developed cell-based therapeutics to treat CHD. A crossfunctional team of over 60 dedicated physicians, scientists and engineers have focused their expertise on developing next-generation treatment options for the most severe forms of CHD, thereby furthering advanced research in genetics, stem cell biology, clinical trials and cell-based manufacturing.
HeartWorks + Ashley partner to create awareness for CHD for World Heart Day (September 29) and Heart Month (February.) In partnership with Broad River Retail, FurnitureMart USA, Ashley Missoula and Ashley, five-bedroom makeovers were gifted to children with CHD.
“IN OUR MANUFACTURING FACILITY, WHAT WE ESSENTIALLY DO IS WE TAKE A PIECE OF YOUR SKIN AND GROW THE CELLS OUT OF YOUR SKIN JUST LIKE YOU WOULD IF YOU WERE HEALING A SCAR AND WE TRAIN THAT SKIN TO BECOME YOUR BEATING HEART MUSCLE,”
- DR. TIM NELSON, FOUNDER AND CEO HEARTWORKS
accomplishments and recognition:
Secured an Investigational New Drug from the FDA to begin clinical testing of autologous cardiac lineages to engraft into the heart muscle of patients with heart failure who are not ideal candidates for heart transplantation.
In 2024, a clinical readiness skin punch biopsy protocol was activated at Mayo Clinic with the aim to reduce manufacturing time when patients are identified as eligible candidates for the HeartWorks bioengineered cardiac lineage treatment trial.
Developed a platform that enables multiple cell-based clinical trials to be conducted simultaneously in collaboration with a consortium of world-class medical institutions.
Developed The Co- Op @ HeartWorks, a database of members’ medical journey data to inform future clinical innovation and design of clinical trials, which address the needs of the member. The Co-Op will be a major contributor to the heart community and to HeartWorks transforming patient care for CHD patients and their families.
For the first time in 30 years, we are witnessing a revolutionary breakthrough in treating congenital heart defects. Thanks to your support, The Wanek Circulation is now possible! We’ve demonstrated that by using a precisely placed mechanical pump to enhance blood flow to the lungs, we can significantly improve overall circulation in both children and adults with complex CHD. This innovative approach
requires no surgery and no new valves—just small catheters and pumps that could eventually be designed for implantation inside the body. This is not just a potential game-changer; it has already saved lives. Our pioneering work is igniting hope for families affected by CHD, and together, we are shaping a brighter future.
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Pictured above: Gabrielle Wanek and Dr. Tim Nelson
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enriching lives, enriches us
HOPE TO DREAM® ASHLEY’S ANGELS CRISIS RESPONSE 03 SECTION
Our commitment: uplift our communities. We help build and restore communities by providing the resources they need to thrive each and every day.
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Hope to Dream®
because every child deserves a bed to dream in
Ashley, Ashley Furniture Industries and independently owned and operated Ashley retail stores proudly support Hope to Dream®, a charity that believes every child should have a bed to call their own. By helping children sleep well, they are positioned to lead a healthier and more productive life.
Hope to Dream® provides brand new beds, complete with a twin mattress, bedframe, bedding and a pillow, to children in need across North America. They achieve this through a combination of individual donations and partnerships with schools, local businesses and other non-profit organizations, Hope to Dream® creates special events focused on donating beds to children in need. Mattress purchases from Ashley help the charity to fulfill its mission to give every child a good night’s sleep.
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Q1 JAN - MAR
1,947
BEDS DONATED IN 2024
9,508 Beds donated by participating Ashley stores
4,191
Q3 JULY - SEPT
3,258 Q2 APR - JUNE
Q4 OCT - DEC 4,399
CHILDREN GIFTED WITH A BED IN 2024
13,795
4,287 Beds Donated by Hope to Dream®
SINCE 2010, HOPE TO DREAM® HAS DONATED 180,000 BEDS TO CHILDREN IN NEED.
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Ashley’s Angels
providing essential items for children in need
Ashley’s Angels is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization that provides food, clothing, blankets and special gift requests for children in need. Since 1997, the organization has generated over $4 million in donations, benefiting more than 20,000 children in Florida, Mississippi, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. Ashley’s Angels also proudly partners with area schools to provide necessities to children who need them the most.
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“Ashley’s Angels was created from the passion of one employee wanting to help others in need. This passion has carried on for over 25 years, inspiring others throughout our company and our communities.”
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Todd Wanek, President and CEO, Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC
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crisis response
supporting our communities when they need it most
We are dedicated to providing the resources that communities need to not only recover but thrive. By offering support to those affected during challenging times, we help make their journey to recovery a little smoother as they work to rebuild their lives.
Following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the Ashley family of companies championed support for the communities devastated by the storms. Ashley Furniture Industries donated 1,300 mattresses and additional products to victims in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina, including Ashley employees. Ashley Distribution Services partnered with various non-profit organizations to transport and store critical aid items such as food, water and personal hygiene products. Corporately owned Ashley stores in Florida and Georgia have been committed to providing special offers for those affected by recent storms.
Additionally, Ashley facilities across the nation have risen to the occasion by organizing local supply drives in multiple states, including North Carolina, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, California, Washington and Florida.
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supporting education & the arts
STEM EDUCATION
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
ASHLEY FOR THE ARTS
Our commitment: invest in future leaders. We support educational opportunities for future generations and foster creativity through access to the arts.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2024
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STEM education
Science, Technology, Engineering & Math
Ashley Furniture Industries (AFI), a global leader in technology and advanced manufacturing, actively partners with K-12 schools, postsecondary institutions, and various organizations to create and implement programs that inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Together with the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation, AFI supports education through a diverse range of projects and partnerships, investing in our future and promoting academic success.
Our mission is to create meaningful educational partnerships that add value to our communities. In 2024, over 15,000 students were impacted by these partnerships.
STEM 101 - K-12 Learning Initiative
In 2022, AFI launched a multi-state partnership with STEM 101 to enhance learning for students using hands-on classroom projects while also creating introductions to technical trades and associated
FIRST® Robotics
AFI is a proud sponsor of FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics. In 2024, funding from AFI and the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation benefited over 520 students With support from industry experts serving as coaches, high school students are learning and applying the fundamentals of engineering, science and technology to become leaders and innovators.
National Manufacturing Month
October is National Manufacturing Month, and in celebration, AFI opened its doors to middle school students and educators to learn about manufacturing careers and their benefits.
In 2024, AFI invited more than 770 students to tour its manufacturing facilities in Mississippi, North Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin.
Career Days
In 2024, AFI hosted a series of Career Day events designed to inspire students about their future careers and give them insight into the industry. Over 100 Wisconsin high school students visited the Arcadia advanced manufacturing and distribution facility, where they had the chance to hear from professionals about their skills, job responsibilities, and experiences in various fields, including design, transportation and distribution, IT and manufacturing and business.
VEX Robotics
VEX Robotics allows students to learn through exploration and engagement, while creating a desire to succeed as they become leaders in STEM. Since 2017, AFI has supported local K-12 schools with equipment and instructor training to compete in extracurricular robotics programs and enhance educational curricula.
For the 2023-2024 school year, donations from AFI and the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation supported over 9,000 students in Minnesota, Mississippi and Wisconsin.
Robotics Summer Camps
In 2024, AFI partnered with local schools in Mississippi and Wisconsin to invite over 50 students to attend Robotics Summer Camp. During each session, students participated in hands-on learning experiences and had the chance to learn the basics of coding and robotics. They also had the opportunity to build and program their own robots.
SkillsUSA® & TSA
AFI is proud to support several SkillsUSA® and Technology Student Association (TSA) chapters. Through these partnerships, students, teachers and industry professionals collaborate to groom a skilled workforce for America’s future. SkillsUSA® hosts a variety of competitions designed to showcase talents and abilities, that students have learned through career and technical education. Some of these competitions have featured AFI’s very own student employees, which we consider a testament to our commitment to nurturing talent. In 2024, nearly 500 students benefited through AFI.
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AFI’s Mobile Skills Lab
AFI invested in a $3 million Mobile Skills Laboratory that fully expands into a 900 sq. ft. classroom. It encompasses a state-of-the-art, custombuilt lab with equipment and curricula in the areas of automation, robotics and Smart Manufacturing technology and processes.
The Mobile Skills Laboratory will be hosted at the Pontotoc Ridge Career and Technology Center in Mississippi for the 2024-2025 school year, in partnership with Pontotoc County Schools and the Pontotoc City School District. It has the potential to reach 350 students annually.
Whitehall Regional Emerging Technology Laboratory
Whitehall School District, in partnership with AFI and the Ronald and Joyce Wanek Foundation, opened the Whitehall Regional Emerging Technology Laboratory (WRETL) for the 2024-2025 school year. This newly remodeled 16,000+ sq. ft. facility will serve as a center of excellence for advanced technology instruction. Offering students in the region access to cutting-edge education and training opportunities, as well as industry-recognized credentials, the WRETL will open a wide range of future possibilities for high-skilled employment and post-secondary education.
Arts Smart
AFI has been a proud supporter and partner of the Davie County Schools Arts Smart festival in North Carolina since 2014. The Arts Smart Festival spotlights students from the Davie County Schools Arts and Education Departments, including artists, singers, dancers, musicians and actors. The event features visual art galleries, make-and-take stations, food vendors, performances by the theater, music and dance departments and more. In 2024, AFI donated to the event and presented three scholarships to students.
technical colleges + universities
AFI & the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation partner with technical colleges and universities to provide practical training in advanced manufacturing, offering state-of-the-art equipment and top-notch instructor training for students.
In 2024, the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation and Western Technical College announced the Wanek Center of Innovation, set to open June 2025. The state-of-the-art facility will be dedicated to advanced manufacturing education and training, positioned to serve as a leader in skills development for the future workforce.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2024
Ashley Grants-In-Aid
$2,000 scholarship awarded to dependent children of our employees or students employed by the Ashley family of companies; funded by AFI.
Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation Inc. Scholarship
Up to $5,000 to students planning careers in qualifying engineering or design fields; provided by the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation.
did you know?
AFI and the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation have awarded
over $4 million in scholarships to students. Each year, over 100 students receive a scholarship.
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Ashley for the Arts
Ashley for the Arts is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that provides the entire family with world-class entertainment, art, exercise and fun.
2024 marked another significant year of generosity, thanks to the attendees, sponsors and volunteers of Ashley for the Arts. The threeday music and art festival raised over $750,000 to support more than 70 area non-profit organizations, including participating schools, children’s charities and medical research. This annual event was hosted on August 8, 9 and 10 at Memorial Park in Arcadia, Wisconsin.
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Highlights
Over 75 arts and crafts fair vendors showcased and sold their creative pieces.
More than 3,500 volunteers from local schools, children’s charities, youth organizations, clubs and community leadership and services took part in the annual festival.
The event featured activities for the whole family, including interactive art, circus performers, a lumberjack show and an inflatable air park.
Ashley’s corporate social responsibility initiatives were on display in the “Ashley Zone,” including: HeartWorks, City of Hope, Wreaths Across America and local middle and high school robotics teams.
Live performances by:
LOCAL SCHOOL
BANDS AND CHOIRS
JOURNEY
OLD DOMINION
BRET MICHAELS
And more!
Community Cares Grant
Through the Community Cares Grant, Ashley for the Arts proudly supports local educational, civic and non-profit organizations that promote the arts, music and broadening cultural horizons within their community. In 2024, the Fountain City Business and Community Group was selected for the grant for the construction of a new band shelter, and to expand live entertainment opportunities for its annual concert series.
Cause Container
In partnership with Hub Group, the Ashley for the Arts 53-ft. intermodal container travels the country, giving fans a unique opportunity to support the non-profit. When fans spot the Cause Container, they can earn funds for Ashley for the Arts by posting a photo of it with the tag #CauseContainer. For each post, Hub Group will donate $100 to the charity, plus $1 every time the posted photo is shared.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
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environmental stewardship
Enhancing the Environment
Ashley is committed to being an environmental steward through energy-use reduction, waste management and recycling and efficient fleet operations. This work is visible in the way we light and power our facilities, limit and reduce waste and enhance the products and tools we use. We are dedicated to improving the environment around us by planting and donating trees for our campuses, communities and employees. We strive to make a meaningful impact by being stewards of the environment for future generations.
01 ENHANCED OPERATIONS
02 RESOURCE BETTERMENT
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2024
OVERVIEW INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
enhanced operations
ENERGY USAGE REDUCTION
RENEWABLE ENERGY
WASTE MANAGEMENT
BY APPLYING NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND IMPROVING PROCESSES, WE WILL CREATE ENERGY EFFICIENCIES.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2024
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
energy usage reduction
conservation through application of new technologies
fuel efficient fleets
Delivering outstanding service to our valued customers has always been our priority. This commitment led us to establish our own transportation fleet, Ashley Distribution Services (ADS), in 1974. Today, ADS stands as one of the largest private fleets in the country.
We take pride in the significant advancements we’ve achieved in reducing our truck emissions and oil consumption. Our trucks reduce idle time by 90 percent by utilizing Auxiliary Power Units (APUs)
An APU consumes only one cup of fuel per hour, while the main engine uses one gallon per hour.
ADS is a Registered SmartWay Carrier Partner. The EPA SmartWay website notes: “Registered SmartWay Carrier Partners measure, benchmark, and track their efforts to increase efficiency and fuel economy and have the documentation to prove it, giving them an advantage with prospective and current clients.”
According to the website, “The SmartWay Program helps carriers demonstrate their efficiency achievements, show continuous improvement, and learn best practices to become even better.”
Source: epa.gov/smartway/become-smartway-carrier-partner
LED lighting
Since 2015, our commitment to energy conservation has remained strong. In fact, Ashley Furniture Industries (AFI) has installed LED lighting in all our newly constructed manufacturing and distribution facilities.
variable frequency drives
By upgrading to LED lighting in just one of our current facilities, AFI decreased lighting energy consumption in that facility by 49 percent.
To further showcase our dedication to energy conservation, we have replaced all standard motors on manufacturing machinery with energy-efficient motors and variable frequency drives, reducing energy usage by more than 25 percent.
white membrane roofing
White membrane roofing is made from highly reflective materials that can reflect 60 to 90 percent of sunlight, keeping the roof cooler than that of darker-colored roofing. This feature means that during warmer weather, less energy is required for cooling. Conversely, in colder weather, the additional insulation beneath the membrane helps retain heat, resulting in reduced energy needs for heating during the winter months.
We have installed nearly 9 million sq. ft. of reflective white membrane roofing across our facilities, including 955,000 square feet in 2024.
Source: whdemmons.com
SUNNY 80°F DAY
WHITE ROOF SUN RADIATION HITS THE ROOFS SURFACE
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
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OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
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ONE ASHLEY
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renewable energy
solar panels
The Ashley family of companies has a solar panel installation initiative that includes projects across our manufacturing and distribution facilities across the globe.
WHAT IS A KILOWATTHOUR ( kWh ) ?
Residential electricity usage is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). One kilowatt-hour (1 kWh) is equal to the amount of energy you would use if you kept a single 1,000-watt appliance running for one hour.
One kilowatt-hour of electricity is enough to: display 10 hours of television power a vacuum for 1 hour wash 12 pounds of laundry work on a computer for 5-10 hours
Source: napower.com
One of the Largest Single Rooftop
the Country
ASHLEY’S SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATIONS ARE PREDICTED TO GENERATE ABOUT 25 MILLION KILOWATT-HOURS OF ELECTRICITY PER YEAR.
Solar Installations in
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
2024
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
waste management
reducing waste
We are committed to being an industry leader in waste reduction by enhancing our recycling and upcycling initiatives across our manufacturing facilities, distribution centers and retail environments.
recycling + upcycling
The Ashley family of companies is continually exploring innovative methods to utilize materials and minimize waste. Our dedicated team focuses on managing scrap materials across our facilities, ensuring that each site prioritizes reuse, recycling and upcycling to the greatest extent possible.
In 2024, we recycled tons of poly-foam
13,791*
82,693* tons of wood tons of cardboard
1,068* tons of metal
10,960*
464* tons of plastic
*ESTIMATED QUANTITIES BASED ON CALENDAR YEAR RECYCLING METRICS AT OUR U.S. FACILITIES.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
2024
OVERVIEW INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
02 SECTION
resource preservation
ENHANCING ECOSYSTEMS
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
enhancing ecosystems
Ashley family of companies recognizes the vital role that abundant trees play in delivering environmental benefits and enriching our local communities.
foundation for the next generation
The tradition of Ashley Furniture Industries (AFI)-hosted tree-planting workshops has been occurring annually since 2006. In the spring of 2024, team members from Ashley, along with employees from local company Legacy-Trees, LLC, shared their knowledge and expertise with high school students in Arcadia at the annual workshop events.
The students learned essential tree-planting skills, including proper techniques, how to match tree species to suitable sites, and a step-by-step process for ensuring correct root depth and orientation. This hands-on experience fosters environmental stewardship in their communities.
The students also had hands-on experience planting trees donated to their communities, allowing them to apply their newfound knowledge of tree care. AFI believes that involving local students in such activities fosters a sense of responsibility and care for their community and environment, creating a positive impact for years to come.
rooted in community
In 2024, the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation and Legacy-Trees, LLC, in collaboration with a grant from the State of Wisconsin, planted 250 trees donated to the local communities of Arcadia and the neighboring city of Whitehall, with each city receiving 125 new trees. The initiative featured a diverse selection of shade trees, ornamental trees, and various evergreens, all aimed at creating a lasting legacy that will enhance the beauty of these communities for generations to come.
This donation supports the growth of an urban forest designed to increase species diversity, lower energy costs through cooling shade, reduce stormwater runoff, and preserve streets with shaded canopies, among other valuable benefits.
By enhancing the habitat today, we ensure our future generations are able to appreciate it tomorrow.”
- Ron Wanek Founder and Chairman | Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC
ASHLEY
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
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planting a Tree City USA®
Due to the efforts of Ashley family of companies, the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation, and the City of Arcadia in planting hundreds of trees over the years, Arcadia was designated as a Tree City USA® by the Arbor Day Foundation in 2024.
As part of Ashley’s environmental stewardship efforts, employees at manufacturing and distribution facilities across the country were given trees to plant in honor of Arbor Day. More than 100,000 trees have been donated since this initiative started in 1993.
STUDIES SHOW TREES HAVE A TREMENDOUSLY POSITIVE IMPACT ON OUR ENVIRONMENT. THEY IMPROVE AIR QUALITY BY FILTERING HARMFUL POLLUTANTS FROM THE AIR AND RELEASING OXYGEN. THEY ALSO AID WATER QUALITY BY SLOWING THE IMPACT OF RAIN AND REDUCING EROSION.
PROTECTS BIODIVERSITY BY PROVIDING HABITAT
TREES TRAP CO2 AND REDUCE GREENHOUSE EFFECTS
COOLS CITIES BY 2-4 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT
REDUCES AIR POLLUTION BY FILTERING PARTICULATE MATTER
REDUCES STRESS
REDUCES URBAN RUNOFF AND EROSION BY STORING WATER
Source: www.washingtonnature.org
one ashley
At the core of our organization lies our culture, which informs everything we do. Our decisions, actions and identity are deeply rooted in our fundamental and growth values. As a family-oriented company, we believe in collaborating to reach our goals, celebrating achievements and tackling any obstacles that arise.
We are passionate about our mission to transform homes around the globe. Enhancing our customers’ spaces to create lasting memories is what drives us, fueling our commitment to delivering exceptional service every day. We recognize that our customers deserve nothing less than the best, which is why we strive to provide an outstanding experience with top-quality products at competitive prices.
Our exceptional customer experience starts with our dedicated employees, whom we empower with limitless opportunities. We foster a supportive work environment that encourages growth, acknowledges hard work and offers competitive wages and benefits to support their families.
Our team consistently rises to challenges and confronts issues head-on. We are committed to continuous improvement and investing in our people, our community and our business to
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2024
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
our values
Our vision is “We want to be the best home furnishings company.” We strive for nothing less than earning the loyalty and trust of our employees and customers every day.
core values
Honesty & Integrity
Be forthright
Passion, Drive, & Discipline
Give everything you have to your job
Dirty Fingernail
You get what you inspect, not what you expect
Continuous Improvement
Know the business
Growth-Focused
Always dominate and be in a #1 position in the furniture industry
growth values
A Culture of Leadership
Lead at every level in the organization
Customer Centric
Deliver on what is promised to the customer
Boundaryless
Work for the greater good of the organization
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
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01 SECTION
investing in our people
GOING THE DISTANCE
Fostering upward mobility by rewarding and recognizing hard work.
ENRICHING LIVES, THE ASHLEY WAY
Opportunities for Ashley employees through continuous learning and leadership development, in addition to educating our future leaders in our local communities.
OUR ASHLEY FAMILY
The robust offerings we provide to employees and their families.
Our commitment: be the employer of choice — a place where people want to join, grow, and stay.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
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OVERVIEW
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going the distance
We never settle for just good enough. Instead, we embrace the idea of “one more,” always looking for that additional effort that can enhance the way we serve our customers. This means building or shipping one more piece of furniture or making one more call to connect with our customers. We are committed to continuous improvement, always finding a way forward when faced with challenges. By maximizing our collective efforts, we have witnessed how our “one more” philosophy has made a significant impact in the lives of many.
Obsessed with Finding a Better Way
We never settle. Our commitment to excellence drives us to continually seek out better solutions. We aspire to be the trendsetters in our industry, setting the standard for what it means to be the best. By consistently enhancing our products and processes, we establish the bar for our customers, ensuring that we lead the way before the competition can catch up.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2024
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
GOING THE DISTANCE
internal mobility + career growth
WANEKISM
The speed of the leader, the speed of the team
We have leaders at every level within our organization who actively collaborate with their teams. They are fully engaged, concentrating on getting the job done. We don’t work for people; we work alongside them.
Retail Distribution Center (RDC) Core Manufacturing Core Skills
Delivers onboarding training to manufacturing employees in basic operations and safety skills specific to Ashley Furniture Industries. This course covers the use of basic hand and power tools, precision measuring, print reading, power systems and safety practices.
This program teaches employees about key roles and responsibilities within the RDC such as: loadout, picking, assembly, deluxe, returns and receiving. Employees will also learn the importance of pedestrian safety, dock awareness, product handling, safe lifting, PIV awareness, product identification, stretching and health and safety incident reporting.
Delivery Driver Customer Excellence (DDCE)
This program prepares drivers for important last-mile delivery of furniture into the customer’s home. Delivery drivers are taught the interpersonal skills needed for effective communication with customers. Drivers also learn how to ensure safe entry into a customer’s home to prevent damage to products or personal property in the home. They also understand how their actions as a delivery driver represent Ashley’s professionalism to the customer and will leave a lasting impression.
providing opportunities to current + future leaders
We empower future leaders and employees by equipping them with the resources, tools and support necessary for their success. Additionally, we guide the journey of growth for our high-potential and executive leaders through the following programs:
Ashley Leadership Institute
The Ashley Leadership Institute serves as the comprehensive framework for all leadership and professional development initiatives at Ashley. Programs like Ashley Leadership Foundations, Ashley Way, Ashley Leading Edge and our annual Domination event are just a few examples of the diverse learning and growth opportunities we offer.
Ashley Leading Edge
Ashley Leading Edge is a three-day resident leadership program focused on empowering mid-level leaders with the mindsets, tools and skills needed for success. It emphasizes cross-functional collaboration and boosts employee engagement and productivity for growth. Since its launch in early 2022, over 250 mid-level leaders have benefited from this program.
Automation Core Training
This program prepares our workforce to integrate the latest advanced robotics into our factories and warehouses. As technology advances and new roles emerge, we want to ensure that no one is left behind.
Machine Operator Certification Program
This program certifies our employees to operate the automated equipment used to fabricate and assemble our furniture. We leverage company best practices and industry safety standards to assess an employee’s competencies and provide a productive and safe work environment.
Ashley Way
This program offers experienced leaders who are new to Ashley a deeper understanding of our unique culture. It emphasizes networking opportunities and leverages the insights of our senior leaders, giving these seasoned professionals a roadmap to WIN—the Ashley way. Through collaboration and knowledgesharing, participants are equipped to navigate and thrive within our organizational environment.
Ashley Leadership Foundations
Ashley Leadership Foundations is a bilingual leadership development program aimed at enhancing the confidence and competence of our frontline leaders as they guide their associates in fulfilling Ashley’s business objectives. The program emphasizes building trust and relationships, effective communication and inspiration. Since its inception, over 1,200 frontline leaders have benefited from the program, equipping them with the skills needed to succeed in their roles and foster a positive workplace environment.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2024
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL
GOING THE DISTANCE
internal mobility + career growth
( CONTINUED )
Internship Opportunities
Ashley offers hands-on internship programs that provide students with essential work experience. By introducing career paths early on, we cultivate and develop high-performing employees, which is vital for the future success of Ashley.
Youth Apprenticeships
Ashley Furniture Industries collaborates with high schools near Arcadia, WI, and Advance, NC, to offer youth apprenticeship opportunities. Students gain hands-on experience in fields like automation, fabrication, finance, marketing and supply chain.
Advanced Technology Makers Center (ATMC)
The ATMC is designed to provide educational opportunities to continuously improve processes, productivity, and efficiency across the areas of electronics, manufacturing, automation and robotics. The curriculum provides hands-on, competency-based, skills training to Ashley’s maintenance and automation employees, local businesses, students and teachers (high school and higher education).
Ashley Careers Program (ACP)
The Ashley Careers Program is a developmental, rotation program that targets high-potential employees and provides a structured career path into critical roles. Career advancement opportunities include Front-line Leaders, Maintenance Technicians, as well as Retail Store Managers, with additional roles expanding based on business needs. Outside of the rotational assignments, the participants meet regularly and participate in group professional development opportunities, and college accredited coursework, while providing opportunity for networking and relationship building with other team members with similar career interests.
The Ashley Careers Program is driven by our dedication to employee development and personal growth. As an industry leader, we understand that one of our business imperatives is to unlock the potential of our employees and is shaped by our employees’ desire to do more.
Education
We empower our employees to realize their full potential by encouraging them to take ownership of their career development. This encompasses formal education through colleges and universities, training at Ashley’s Learning Center and experiential learning on the job. Ashley is committed to fostering strong, mutually beneficial partnerships with educational institutions, enabling our team members to broaden their network of opportunities.
Program Tuition Reimbursement
Learning Center
Our employees are the key to our success, and we want to provide the very best opportunities that allow them to grow their careers with Ashley.”
- Todd Wanek, President and CEO,
Furniture Industries, LLC
Ashley
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
INTRODUCTION
GOING THE DISTANCE
celebration + recognition
celebrating our employees
About C2BE
The Choose to be Extraordinary program encourages engagement between our employees, their peers, leadership and our customers.
C2BE Raves: We encourage employees to celebrate their peers’ accomplishments through C2BE Raves. Team members and leaders can choose from Ashley’s core and growth values that their colleague exemplified, offer a short description of their observations, and share the impact it had on them. This not only highlights the significance of our core and growth values but also enhances our company culture.
The employee’s leader will receive a notification about the Rave, and the recognition will be recorded in the employee’s profile. This special acknowledgment can be highlighted in team meetings and included in performance appraisals.
Team Activities: A strong team is vital for success, which is why C2BE organizes various team-building activities each year. These events not only foster team bonds but also benefit our community. For instance, each fall, we hold a food drive where teams gather thousands of items for local food shelters and the Ashley’s Angels program.
Choose to be Extraordinary (C2BE)
We strive for excellence and recognize that it takes each of us to achieve our best. That’s why we want to honor those employees who demonstrate exceptional effort and embody our core and growth values.
award ceremonies
We aim to recognize individuals and teams who exemplify our values in action. Our awards program creates opportunities for associates to receive recognition for their achievements and contributions.
Ashley Service Awards
At Ashley, we believe work anniversaries are special milestones worth celebrating in style! When our employees reach a service anniversary milestone, starting at 5 years, they are honored with a cash reward. This is just one of the many ways we express our gratitude for their dedication and years of service. We value our team and take pride in recognizing their commitment to our organization!
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
GOING THE DISTANCE
ENVIRONMENTAL
celebrating our employees
celebration + recognition employee awards
Our team is made up of remarkable individuals who greatly influence the furniture industry. We honor their important contributions through these awards:
Idea Network Change Master
The Idea Network Change Master Award is for employees who exemplify the meaning of passion and drive to continuously improve. We awarded 3 Change Master awards this year.
idea network
We are proud to have extraordinary teammates who make a positive impact in the furniture industry. We recognize their valuable contributions through these awards:
We affirm that our most valuable asset, is our employees. We educate our teams to focus on utilizing continuous improvement tools to scientifically review processes, issues, or challenges to identify the root cause and solve it.
NEARLY 2,300 IDEAS SUBMITTED!
OVER 450 COMPLETED & IMPLEMENTED
Idea Network helps us keep our costs low and ensure value for our customers by eliminating waste. By empowering employees to share their ideas, we are able to stay competitive on a global scale.
Outstanding Performance
The Outstanding Performance Award recognizes the recipient’s outstanding contribution to a team or project for associates who have been at Ashley for at least 1 year. We awarded 22 Outstanding Performance awards this year.
Silver
The Silver Award highlights employees who consistently provide significant contributions and positive morale to the Ashley team for at least 3 years. Silver Award recipients are boundaryless in working with other departments in the company and are a driving force of accomplishing company and departmental goals. We awarded 30 Silver Awards this year.
Gold
The Gold Award recognizes employees who demonstrate initiative, perseverance, and dedication for at least 5 years. They show a high degree of commitment to making Ashley the best furniture company, go above and beyond on a regular basis, contribute to the growth of Ashley, embody the “One Ashley” culture and demonstrate continuous improvement mindsets. We awarded 7 Gold Awards this year.
Chairman's
The Chairman’s Award stands as Ashley’s highest distinction, celebrating exceptional leaders who have demonstrated unwavering dedication to the company’s success. This prestigious recognition is reserved for individuals who exemplify excellence across multiple dimensions of leadership and impact. We awarded 2 Chairman’s Awards this year.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2024
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
enriching lives, the Ashley way
WANEKISM
Hire for attitude, Train for skill
Positive attitudes are contagious, motivating us and enhancing our environment. When adding new members to the Ashley family, we prioritize attitude and behavior above all else.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
2024
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
ENRICHING LIVES, THE ASHLEY WAY
employee engagement
Our employees are the heartbeat of the organization. We work together to continuously improve our business, products and customer experience. Our goal is to be recognized as an employer of choice and a place to grow, learn and stay.
critical feedback and opportunities for improvement
Feedback from our employees is a critical part of our success here at Ashley. Ashley’s leadership creates action items and teams to focus on those items. Our goal is to use this feedback to make measurable and sustainable improvements every year.
holiday gifts the season of giving
As a special way to thank our dedicated employees here at Ashley, we provide a food gift or money to buy items for their holiday dinners. It’s a tradition that’s been going strong since the 1970s and shows that family values are at the core of Ashley.
family fun family values
We host annual events to celebrate our collective efforts and hard work, because at Ashley, family and fun go hand in hand.
employee appreciation meals
We plan annual employee appreciation meals across the country for our employees and/or their families to come together and enjoy some family-fun activities and delicious meals.
IN 2024, WE PROVIDED A HOLIDAY GIFT TO MORE THAN 16,000 EMPLOYEES
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
2024
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
our Ashley family
our benefits
keeping our employees healthy and happy
To support our valued employees and their families, Ashley provides a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees, featuring a variety of medical, dental and vision options. We also offer wellness resources, including counseling and health tips, to promote overall well-being.
health + wellness
To address the unique needs of our employees and their families, Ashley provides a range of health plans, aiming to keep premiums affordable by covering most of the insurance costs. Employees can choose from several plans to find the option that best fits their family’s needs.
wellness program
Ashley prioritizes employee well-being and supports it by providing opportunities for employees to optimize their benefits, establish personal goals, receive customized support and empower their unique path to wellness.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
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ASHLEY HAS CONTRIBUTED OVER $335 MILLION TO PROFIT SHARING OVER THE LAST 30 YEARS.
Ashley proudly offers a profit-sharing plan, allowing every eligible employee to share in our success.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
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ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
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OUR ASHLEY FAMILY
health, safety & security
Ashley strives to:
From 2020-2023, Ashley reduced the number of injuries experienced by employees by over 20 percent and the amount of lost time due to work injuries by over 40 percent.
Overall injury rates are less than 5 per 100 employees, well below the industry average.
Additionally, significant work has been done to enhance safety programs, policies and procedures. Special attention was focused on Safety and Health Management Systems, as well as emergency response and security protocols.
△ Adhere to best practices for employee protection and consistently comply with all relevant legal requirements.
△ Incorporate employee health and safety requirements in business strategies and operational plans.
△ Continuously enhance processes and controls to prevent work-related incidents, injuries and illnesses.
△ Foster employee involvement and provide appropriate health and safety education to enhance employees’ ability to work safely and productively.
△ Conduct regular health and safety audits and promptly investigate safety incidents to address any employee health concerns without delay.
Full support for employee health and safety through education, prevention and controls is essential for driving innovation, enhancing productivity and fostering continual improvement. Every employee shares a personal responsibility to understand, embrace and contribute to initiatives that ensure all team members return home healthy and safe each day.
You get what you inspect, not what you expect
At Ashley, we are committed to maintaining a safe and healthy workplace for all employees, visitors, guests, and customers. Our Cardinal Safety Rules outline our safety expectations, emphasizing that education is crucial for fostering accountability in ensuring everyone’s safety. Each of us is responsible for understanding and adhering to safety and security policies and practices, playing a vital role in creating a safe environment. In short, compliance with Ashley’s commitment to safety is essential and not optional.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2024
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
02 SECTION
investing in our community
THE RIPPLE EFFECT
Ashley’s economic impact.
SUPPORTING COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
Philanthropic efforts of our employees in the communities we serve.
Our commitment: Ashley supports our local communities and contributes to the U.S. economy by giving our time, resources and talents to a multitude of worthy causes.
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
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OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
INVESTING IN OUR COMMUNITY
the ripple effect
The Ashley family of companies creates an economic impact within the U.S. of more than $4.16 billion annually. We do this by contributing billions to the U.S. economy in the form of employee payroll, benefits, purchases, capital investments, and utility expenses every year.
THE ASHLEY FAMILY OF COMPANIES EMPLOYS MORE THAN 16,000 PEOPLE IN THE UNITED STATES ALONE
The Ashley family of companies employs more than 16,000 people in the United States alone, which is more than any other furniture company. We also support more than 7,800 vendors and businesses, forming an economic ripple effect.
Thousands of jobs have been created through the ripple effect of the business by Ashley’s suppliers. These businesses have created thousands of additional jobs and buy a lot of supplies that create even more jobs, all as a result of Ashley’s business. We create more than 4.4 jobs with each manufacturing job and tens of thousands of dollars in local economic activity. And for every dollar of domestic manufacturing, another $3.60 of value-added benefit is generated elsewhere.
PROUDLY MANUFACTURING FURNITURE IN THE USA AND WORLDWIDE
manufacturing creates wealth
Every city, county, state and nation wants to bring wealth to their area.
Balance of Trade
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
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OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
INVESTING IN OUR COMMUNITY
supporting community involvement volunteerism
Volunteering is a core part of our culture, and the Wanek family’s commitment to community support empowers our employees to do the same. We proudly offer various opportunities for our team members to share their time and talents, helping to strengthen and uplift the communities in which we live and work. Their time and talents to help the communities they live and work in thrive.
ASHLEY FOR THE ARTS
More than 500 employees gave their time and talents to make Ashley for the Arts a success.
honoring worthy causes
Throughout the year, employees participated in special days in commemoration:
WEAR RED DAY
Employees were encouraged to wear the color red to show their support for heart health and disease awareness during American Heart Month, in February.
PINK OUT DAY
Employees were encouraged to wear the color pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, in October.
Volunteerism drives much of our company’s philanthropy. We, in turn, hope that involvement inspires and promotes additional acts of goodwill.”
- Todd Wanek, President and CEO, Ashley Furniture Industries, LLC
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
2024
OVERVIEW
INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
INVESTING IN OUR COMMUNITY
employee-led contribution
dollar a week program
We are committed to creating positive, impactful change in our local communities. When challenges arise, we set clear goals to overcome them. Through our “Dollar a Week” program, employees were able to make significant donations to make significant donations to a variety of organizations supporting the well being children.
DONATED TO ST. JUDE CHILDREN’S RESEARCH HOSPITAL TOTALING $342,965 SINCE 2012 $ 31,596 $ 30,436
DONATED TO LE BONHEUR CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL TOTALING $377,936 SINCE 2006 $ 9,692
DONATED TO RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES TOTALING $76,752 SINCE 2017 $ 54,632
DONATED TO HOPE TO DREAM® TOTALING $28,772 SINCE 2021
DONATED TO ASHLEY ’S ANGELS TOTALING $1,559,790 SINCE 2003 $ 6,161
DONATED TO MISCELLANEOUS ORGANIZATIONS TOTALING $61,704 SINCE 2015 $ 11,468
employee dollar a week contributions in 2024
$80,000
$75,000
$70,000
$65,000
$60,000
$55,000
$50,000
$45,000
$40,000
$35,000
$30,000
$25,000
$20,000
$15,000
$10,000
$5,000 $-
ST. JUDE LE BONHEUR
RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE
ASHLEY’S ANGELS
HOPE TO DREAM® MISCELLANEOUS ORGANIZATIONS
ASHLEY CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2024
OVERVIEW INTRODUCTION
COMMUNITY
ENVIRONMENTAL
ONE ASHLEY
LOOKING AHEAD
looking ahead
We’re building a better future at Ashley, one home, one community, one employee at a time. In today’s evolving world, we’re focused on adapting to change, serving our customers, and empowering our team. This means prioritizing our customers’ evolving needs and strengthening the communities where we live and work.
At Ashley, we lead with care and compassion. From developing future leaders to donating to those less fortunate, we’re invested in supporting our communities. We believe that empowering our 35,000+ global associates and providing them with growth opportunities is not just good business, it’s the right thing to do. We also encourage their community involvement as a core part of our values.
Recognizing our environmental impact, we prioritize waste reduction, resource conservation and renewable energy. We’re committed to addressing critical planetary challenges and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
We’re incredibly proud of the resilience and dedication of our team members and the communities we serve. They consistently rise to challenges, embodying our founding principles of honesty, integrity and accountability. We’re excited to continue creating positive change and enriching lives in the year ahead.
