Ethan Allen shareholder Doug Bergeron launches CEO search ahead of 2026 annual meeting amid succession push

Shareholder Doug Bergeron, holding 5.2%, launched an independent search for a new CEO ahead of Ethan Allen’s 2026 annual meeting.

The move escalates an activist push to replace long-serving CEO Farooq Kathwari, citing weak accountability during his 38-year tenure.

Bergeron’s director nominees tapped a global executive search firm, citing the board’s unwillingness to address CEO succession.

Kristine Miller will lead the CEO search, targeting candidates with omnichannel retail experience, brand modernization skills, and profitable growth track records.