Area rug maker and importer Capel Inc. has named Eric Birnbach as president and CEO. His appointment marks the first time the operation will be lead by someone other than a member of the Capel family that founded the company in 1917. The three brothers that have been overseeing the company, A. Leon Capel, Jr., Jesse S. Capel, and Arron W. E. Capel, are set to retire as executive officers effective October 1.

The company said Birnbach was selected after an extensive national research. "We are confident that, with his 26 years of experience in the home furnishing industry, Eric brings outstanding management competence and impeccable leadership skills to Cape," said a statement from the current management team. The company noted that Birnbach has served in numerous leadership capacities in the home furnishings industry

Birnbach said "I am delighted to become a part of Capel's rich history. The Capel family has built a wonderfully successful company with a superb reputation." Birnbach and his family are relocating to Troy N.C.