About the Northeast Ohio Floor Covering Association

The first thing many people ask is if there was an organization before this one (NEOFCA) and how long NEOFCA has been in existence.  Yes there was an organization, The Cleveland Carpet Club.  That group dissolved and this area was without a association for a number of years.

In 1989, at the annual Maibach's clam bake, Marjorie McGirr (then with Monsanto Fibers) was discussing with Mark Farnsworth (then when World Carpets) the need for the re-establishment of a floor covering association.  Mark agreed that such an association could benefit both retailers, mill reps and distributors.  Marjorie and Mark listed several others they knew would be interested in and willing to work on the establishment of an association.

In August 1989, the first informal meeting was held at a Bob Evans Restaurant.  Present were Marjorie McGirr, Mark Farnsworth, Robert McGirr, Jack Degenhard, Al Hartman and Connie Waskin.  These "original" board members had a lot of great ideas such as a scholarship program, a mini-market, golf outing and a newsletter to keep everyone informed.

For over 20 years, the North East Ohio Floor Covering Association has played a role in the advancement of the floor covering industry in northeastern Ohio.  NEOFCA is now going through another change as it focuses on the "new" demands of it's members.  We all have seen great changes in this industry with consolidation, buying groups, marketing strategies, the growth of "big boxes" and more.  NEOFCA too has seen this and is working now on refocusing it's efforts to better serve you, it's members.