Levin Furniture and Mattress (Levin) and John V. Schultz Furniture (JVS) have been named Furniture Retailer of the Year for 2026 by the International Home Furnishings Representatives Association (IHFRA).
Levin and JVS, combined, have more than 30 locations across western and central Pennsylvania, northeastern Ohio and the surrounding areas; these include six Ashley stores. The company employs over 1,000 associates and said in a press release that it is committed to investing in local organizations.
“Levin and JVS maintain ongoing partnerships with children’s hospitals, food banks, and local charitable organizations throughout the region,” the release stated.
Levin has been a staple in many communities for more than 100 years. It was first founded in 1920, as a single storefront in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania. Nearly 20 years later, John V. Schultz opened his furniture store in Erie, Pennsylvania. The two companies grew separately until years later when the Schultz family helped bring the Levin stores out of financial distress and carry both legacies forward. They now operate as a combined organization and company to offer customers quality furniture products, the release states.
“This award reflects more than a century of work by thousands of employees who never stopped believing in what these brands stand for,” Co-CEO Matt Schultz stated. “We’re proud to carry that legacy forward, and excited to keep delivering an outstanding shopping experience to the communities we serve.”
The award is intended to recognize Levin and JVS’ commitment to their local communities and employees, as well as feature their growth and history.
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