WARD FORMS HALVAI HIGH END  IMPORT COMPANY

Bill Ward

NEW YORK -- Rug industry veteran Bill Ward has formed Halvai, Inc.,   an importing company specializing in the luxury market.

This week's  New York International Carpet Show at the Historic Lexington Ave. Armory marked the company's debut, according to Ward.

The company's first collection is Presidio, a broad group of decorative hand knotted designs available in limited edition. Suggested retail price point is $6,000 in 6 x 9. The Halvai rugs are made in the Jaipur region of India using a mix of vegetable and chrome dyes.

"We think these rugs can sell side by side with $100,000 antique carpets," said Ward.

"I wanted to bring something fresh and unique in terms of texture and colors. Many traditionally styled rugs, such as Haji Jalili revivals, are being imported from Afghanistan and Pakistan. Not that many are coming from India. I saw an opportunity to develop a unique Indian-made product," said Ward. "The initial reaction has been very strong," said Ward.

Discussing his commitment to the luxury end of the market, Ward said, "I like the high end because it's more fun. It's where the most creative concepts born."

The word Halvai is based on several languages including HIndi, Urdu and Farsi. It means "maker of sweets," and also implies fine quality.

"My goal is to make Halvai a meaningful brand. We are starting with rugs, but hope to branch out into other luxury goods, as well," said Ward.

In the near future, Halvai will be opening a gallery in New York SoHo region, an area known for art galleries and trend-setting luxury boutiques.

Ward was most recently chief executive officer of Obeetee, Inc. in the US. He resigned that post in December, 2006. Earlier, he spent several years as a buyer at ABC Carpet & Home, the New York retailer.

09.20.07