March 23, 2007

CONTACT: Bondi Coley
bcoley@leeindustries.com
828.464.8318 x270

For Immediate Release

Long before phrases such as “carbon-neutral” and “eco-friendly” became common, LEE Industries was aware of the environmental impact of its manufacturing process. Since 1969, it has made its mission to create innovatively styled, high-quality home furnishings while adhering to a set of values that focus on their customers, their community, and the environment. Having established itself as a leader in eco-friendly manufacturing, it is no surprise that LEE steps up again to offer an innovative bio-based upholstery package. NaturalLEE incorporates all of the quality standards upon which LEE has built its reputation with responsible manufacturing techniques and components. NaturalLEE is an earth friendly solution that can be applied to the entire collection of LEE upholstery.

Choosing the naturalLEE package supports sustainable and renewable products. The most exciting component of naturalLEE is Preserve™, a flexible polyurethane foam that utilizes BiOH polyol derived from soybeans. Developed by Cargill for Hickory Springs Manufacturing in Hickory, North Carolina, Preserve™ foam replaces 20% of the petroleumbased foam and has shown to outperform traditional foam in firmness, retention, support and durability. Based in 2006 sales figures, LEE Industries estimates that if every one of their customers chose Preserve™ foam for their upholstery, the result would save approximately 8,000 gallons of crude oil and eliminate approximately 54,000 pounds of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in a one year period. As an added incentive, for every naturalLEE package ordered, LEE Industries will donate a tree to American Forests (americanforests.org).

Other components of naturalLEE include:

• Wood frames constructed from engineered panels bonded with soy-based resins, replacing formaldehyde-based resins. Panels used by LEE are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, an organization that promotes sustainable forestry practices while conserving biodiversity and local communities.
• Back and throw pillows made of 100% recycled fibers from clean, recycled bottles. The recycled material is reprocessed into its original form and then into fiber.
• Seat deck and trim pads made up of 80% regenerated fibers that consist of virgin fibers and waste fibers.
• Water based wood finishes, used on the naturalLEE package and all other LEE frames.
• Upholstery fabrics woven from organic fibers and chemical free cotton.

ELEGANT EARTH TONES, LUSH BAMBOO VELVET
AND 100% CERTIFIED ORGANIC COTTONS
TOP THE LIST OF FABRIC INTRODUCTIONS FROM LEE

With over 115 new fabrics, LEE's commitment to sustainable resources is reflected in the fabric introductions. Even the colors are very “earthy” with nutty browns, spicy reds, sunset golds, and leafy greens. The most innovative fabric in LEE’s line is Brock, a lush velvet made from cut bamboo. The durability and sustainability of bamboo make this a
wise choice for fabric. The organic cottons being introduced are woven from 100% certified organic cotton with no chemicals used in the processing of the fibers and only vegetable dyes used for coloring.

CONTEMPORARY WITH A CLASSIC TOUCH

In frame designs, LEE introduces 101 SKU's for seating. LEE continues to impress with its contemporary styling with many pieces featuring square lines with a classic touch that have been updated in scale and comfort for the modern consumer. Other notables are the club chair with more angular arms and modern nail head design; and the classic Chesterfield with its curving back and flared arms.

LEE also introduces an addition to its wood line called natural Horizons. Again, LEE's dedication to sustainable resources is evident with a collection manufactured from reclaimed lumber. The five pieces added this market contain lumber from grain bins and warehouses in the mid-West. The scars and vermin trails in the lumber add to the unique characteristics of these designs, making each piece truly one-of-akind.

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With all the buzz about global warming, conservation and renewable resources, it all comes down to the choices we make and to understanding what goes into the products and services we buy. With LEE’s commitment to their long-standing tradition, with the introduction of the naturalLEE package, and with their dedication to sourcing new products and new ideas, there is an option in making a responsible choice when it comes to furniture. There really is no other choice but LEE.