Crawford Furniture files Chapter 11

JAMESTOWN, N.Y. (WIVB) - Crawford Furniture has filed for a Chapter 11 re organization, which effectively freezes all attempts by creditors to collect on their debts.

It's the latest attempt to keep the 127-year-old furniture maker in Jamestown alive.

Crawford's financial problems became abundantly clear when their store in Hamburg and warehouse in Cheektowaga were shuttered for non payment of rent, over the weekend.

The landlord at both locations is the Benderson Company and Crawford's filing shows some of what they owe in back rent. They owe $98,000 to one landlord, $161,000 to another, and $60,000 to another.

Call 4 Action has been receiving regular complaints about late delivery of orders, or non delivery, since early this year.

Crawford Furniture store customer Scott Zawierucha said, “Called every branch store. I called the shipping department. I called every imaginable phone number, and nothing. I get answering machines that the messages are full and unable to take any more messages.”

Statement from Crawford Furniture Spokesman Brett Cappa:

"Due to the current economic climate, Crawford Furniture Manufacturing Corp. and Crawford Furniture Retail Outlet, Inc. filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy petitions on August 25, 2011. This will allow Crawford Furniture to continue operating their businesses while they assess the operations of the companies.

During this time all Crawford Furniture store locations, warehouses and customer service department, will remain open and continue to operate. The companies anticipate that current sale orders will continue to be delivered as scheduled and all warranties (both manufacturers’ and extended) will remain intact and valid. Our sales associates, store managers and customer service department will be happy to assist customers and will continue to strive to earn their business and address any customer concerns. Crawford Furniture’s customer service department can be reached at 716-661-9100.

During these difficult economic times, Crawford Furniture will continue to labor and find a way to keep selling a great American-made product. We will fight for our employees and families of Western New York. Our 127 year old company will strive to deliver all customer orders. Crawford Furniture and our employees appreciate your patience and support during these challenging economic times."

News 4 will bring you the latest information as it becomes available.