Gift leader Peter Dunn has handed over the reins of his family-run company to the next generation.

The 64-year-old has stepped down as president, naming son Paul and son-in-law Joe Knutson as co-presidents of the Dalton, Ohio-based company known for combining an accent on rustic styles with innovation.

The transition, which was planned for some time in the future, was brought forward after Dunn broke a femur in a cycling accident in September. Dunn remains owner of the business, where his voice will continue to greet telephone callers.

“We expect that Peter will be lending his time and energy and expertise to various projects, but he will no longer be responsible for day-to-day operations,” said Knutson, who has been with the company for six years. “There is not going to be an abrupt change in the way the business operates.”

Founded in the basement of his home in 1977, Dunn's business now employs around 100 and has grown into a 104,000-square-foot center not far from the family farm. The company won a CBA Impact Award for its product development in 2006, and Dunn served on the trade association's board as a gift supplier representative for three years. 

• Prev
• Next