#United States #New York #Ernesta #Rohit Bagalkot #Kelly Shah

Ernesta’s Strategic Expansion in Manhattan

Ernesta, recognized as the largest retailer of custom-sized rugs in the United States, has recently made significant strides in its operations with the opening of a new headquarters. Situated in New York City's vibrant Manhattan district at 119 West 24th Street, this move signifies a crucial step forward for the company as it positions itself for accelerated growth. Along with the relocation, Ernesta has also announced the engagement of two senior executives—Rohit Bagalkot as Vice President of Marketing and Kelly Shah as Director of Inventory Planning.

A New Home for Growth

The new office, which spans 12,500 square feet on the second floor, is designed to foster collaboration and innovation among Ernesta's growing team. With ample space for over 90 employees, the headquarters features open work areas, large conference rooms, and breakout spaces. This strategic location sits at the intersection of Chelsea and Flatiron, providing easy access to interior designers, trade partners, and customers.

Ben Shapiro, Vice Chairman at Newmark, remarked on the significance of the move, highlighting the competitive advantages of establishing a presence in one of Manhattan’s most desirable neighborhoods. This initiative sets a robust foundation for Ernesta’s plans for long-term development and brand strengthening.

Leadership Additions

As Ernesta embarks on this new chapter, the appointment of Rohit Bagalkot and Kelly Shah underscores the company’s commitment to enhancing its market presence.

Rohit Bagalkot - Vice President of Marketing

Rohit Bagalkot will spearhead the company’s marketing efforts, focusing on brand growth and improving customer engagement. He brings a wealth of experience from his previous role at Prenuvo, along with a strong background at Peloton. Bagalkot's expertise in building high-growth consumer brands will be integral as Ernesta seeks to elevate its connection with designers and homeowners.

“Ernesta is doing something genuinely new in a category that has not changed in decades. There is enormous potential to introduce a better way to buy rugs, and I'm thrilled to share that story as we grow,” commented Bagalkot on his new role.

Kelly Shah - Director of Inventory Planning

Joining Ernesta as the Director of Inventory Planning, Kelly Shah will manage demand planning and inventory strategy. With nearly a decade of experience in merchandise and inventory planning, she has previously worked with Ring Concierge, gaining invaluable insight into operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Shah’s background positions her perfectly to uphold Ernesta’s promise of rapid delivery, even as order volumes increase.

“Delivering a custom product quickly and dependably comes down to great planning behind the scenes,” said Shah. “I look forward to constructing an inventory foundation that supports Ernesta’s customer commitments.”

Looking Ahead

With a new headquarters and a reinvigorated leadership team, Ernesta is on a solid trajectory for growth. The company has experienced impressive year-over-year expansion, recently raising $20 million in a Series B funding round, which indicates robust investor confidence in its business model and future prospects.

Established as a leader in transforming how consumers buy rugs, Ernesta focuses on providing customized, designer-quality options directly to customers, ensuring a seamless shopping experience. The combination of premium materials, clear pricing, and personalized guidance sets Ernesta apart in a traditionally stagnant market.

As modern homeowners seek tailored decor that fits their individual styles, Ernesta's innovative approach places it in a prime position to cater to this evolving demand. Recognized with the Good Housekeeping 2025 Home Renovation Award, Ernesta is setting new standards in home design and looks forward to further solidifying its footprint across the nation.

In summary, Ernesta’s new headquarters and key executive hires mark a pivotal moment in the company’s journey, setting the stage for exciting developments in the world of custom rugs. The future looks bright as Ernesta continues to drive innovation and growth in the home design space.