WFCA's new chairman vows high tech push, Web site to link shoppers with member stores

"The Internet is creating a new paradigm for how retailers conduct business in the floor covering industry," said Pirner. "Smart retailers are quickly recognizing the efficiencies to be gained by adopting a B2B platform in their business model. And more and more consumers are using the web to learn about their floor covering purchases before they visit our stores."

Pirner, whose company operates 12 stores, is set to begin his one-year term July 1, succeeding David Alton, the president of DCA Enterprises of Portola, Calif. At the conclusion of his term, Pirner will be succeeded by Robert Hill, the CEO of Floor Covering Associates in Chicago who was tapped as chairman-elect.