FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL INC
S-3/A, 1997-06-24
HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE
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<PAGE>
 
     
  AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON JUNE 24, 1997     
                                                   
                                                REGISTRATION NO. 333-28173     
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                      SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, DC 20549
 
                               ----------------
                                
                             AMENDMENT NO. 1     
                            REGISTRATION STATEMENT
                                  ON FORM S-3
                                     UNDER
                          THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
 
                               ----------------
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
            (EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN ITS CHARTER)
               DELAWARE                              43-0337683
    (STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION OF               (I.R.S. EMPLOYER
    INCORPORATION OR ORGANIZATION)               IDENTIFICATION NO.)
 
                             101 SOUTH HANLEY ROAD
                   ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI 63105 (314) 863-1100
  (ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE, OF
                   REGISTRANT'S PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES)
 
                               ----------------
 
                          LYNN CHIPPERFIELD, ESQUIRE
                 VICE-PRESIDENT, GENERAL COUNSEL AND SECRETARY
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
                             101 SOUTH HANLEY ROAD
                           ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI 63105
                                (314) 863-1100
(NAME, ADDRESS, INCLUDING ZIP CODE, AND TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE,
                             OF AGENT FOR SERVICE)
 
                               ----------------
 
                       COPIES OF ALL COMMUNICATIONS TO:
   PETER S. SARTORIUS,     JOHN T. GAFFNEY, ESQUIRE    DAVID A. KATZ, ESQUIRE
         ESQUIRE            CRAVATH, SWAINE & MOORE    WACHTELL, LIPTON, ROSEN
 MORGAN, LEWIS & BOCKIUS        WORLDWIDE PLAZA                & KATZ
           LLP                 825 EIGHTH AVENUE         51 WEST 52ND STREET
  2000 ONE LOGAN SQUARE     NEW YORK, NY 10019-7475    NEW YORK, NY 10019-6119
 PHILADELPHIA, PA 19103-        (212) 474-1122             (212) 403-1000
           6993
      (215) 963-5000
 
  APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE OF THE SECURITIES TO THE
PUBLIC: As soon as practicable on or after this Registration Statement is
declared effective.
 
  If the only securities being registered on this Form are being offered
pursuant to dividend or interest reinvestment plans, please check the
following box. [_]
 
  If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on
a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of
1933, other than securities offered only in connection with dividend or
interest reinvestment plans, check the following box. [_]
 
  If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering
pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, please check the following
box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier
effective registration statement for the same offering. [_]
 
  If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c)
under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act
registration number of the earlier effective registration statement for the
same offering. [_]
 
  If delivery of the prospectus is expected to be made pursuant to Rule 434,
please check the following box. [_]
       
                               ----------------
 
  THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR
DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT
SHALL FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS
REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH
SECTION 8(a) OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 OR UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT
SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID
SECTION 8(a), MAY DETERMINE.
 
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
 
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS SUBJECT TO COMPLETION OR AMENDMENT. A         +
+REGISTRATION STATEMENT RELATING TO THESE SECURITIES HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE   +
+SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. THESE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD NOR MAY  +
+OFFERS TO BUY BE ACCEPTED PRIOR TO THE TIME THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT        +
+BECOMES EFFECTIVE. THIS PROSPECTUS SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR   +
+THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY SALE OF THESE      +
+SECURITIES IN ANY STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE    +
+UNLAWFUL PRIOR TO REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF  +
+ANY SUCH STATE.                                                               +
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
                   
                SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED JUNE 24, 1997     
 
PROSPECTUS
 
                               11,000,000 SHARES
 
                     [FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL LOGO]

                                  COMMON STOCK
 
                                   --------
 
                    [LOGOS OF BROYHILL, LANE, THOMASVILLE]
   
  The 11,000,000 shares of Common Stock, no par value (the "Common Stock"), of
Furniture Brands International, Inc. (the "Company") offered hereby are being
sold by the Selling Stockholders (as defined herein). The Company will not
receive any of the proceeds from the sale of the Common Stock offered hereby.
Of the 11,000,000 shares of Common Stock offered hereby, a total of 8,800,000
shares are being offered hereby for sale in the United States and Canada (the
"U.S. Offering") by the U.S. Underwriters (as defined) and a total of 2,200,000
shares are being offered by the Managers (as defined) in a concurrent
international offering outside the U.S. and Canada (the "International
Offering" and, together with the U.S. Offering, the "Offerings"). The Common
Stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "FBN." On June
23, 1997, the last reported sale price of the Common Stock on the New York
Stock Exchange was $17 per share.     
 
  Concurrently with the consummation of the Offerings, the Company will
repurchase (i) 10,842,299 shares of Common Stock from the Selling Stockholders
at a price of $15.75 per share, subject to certain adjustments, and (ii)
warrants to purchase 290,821 shares of Common Stock at a price of $8.62 per
warrant (representing $15.75 per share less the $7.13 per share warrant
exercise price), subject to certain adjustments. See "Selling Stockholders and
Company Repurchase."
 
  SEE "RISK FACTORS" BEGINNING ON PAGE 10 FOR A DISCUSSION OF CERTAIN FACTORS
THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED BY PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS OF THE COMMON STOCK OFFERED
HEREBY.
 
                                   --------
 
THESE SECURITIES  HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED  OR DISAPPROVED BY  THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION  OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR HAS  THE SECURITIES
 AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION  OR ANY  STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION  PASSED UPON THE
 ACCURACY OR  ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION  TO THE CONTRARY
  IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   UNDERWRITING         PROCEEDS TO
                 PRICE TO          DISCOUNT AND         THE SELLING
                  PUBLIC          COMMISSIONS(1)      STOCKHOLDERS(2)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>         <C>                 <C>                 <C>
Per Share         $                    $                  $
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Total(3)       $                    $                  $
</TABLE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 (1)For information regarding indemnification of the U.S. Underwriters and the
  Managers, see "Underwriting."
 (2)Before deducting expenses estimated at $1,000,000 payable by the Company.
 (3) The Selling Stockholders have granted the U.S. Underwriters a 30-day
     option to purchase up to 1,100,000 additional shares of Common Stock
     solely to cover over-allotments, if any. If such option is exercised in
     full, the total Price to Public, Underwriting Discounts and Commissions
     and Proceeds to the Selling Stockholders will be    ,    and    ,
     respectively.
 
                                   --------
 
  The shares of Common Stock are being offered by the several U.S. Underwriters
named herein, subject to prior sale, when, as and if accepted by them and
subject to certain conditions. It is expected that certificates for the shares
of Common Stock offered hereby will be available for delivery on or about    ,
1997, at the office of Smith Barney Inc., 333 West 34th Street, New York, New
York 10001.
 
                                   --------
 
SMITH BARNEY INC.
     CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON
          DILLON, READ & CO. INC.
                MERRILL LYNCH & CO.
                      SALOMON BROTHERS INC
                                                      WHEAT FIRST BUTCHER SINGER
 
    , 1997
<PAGE>
 
                               PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
 
  The following is a summary of certain information appearing elsewhere in this
Prospectus. Reference is made to, and this summary is qualified in its entirety
by, the more detailed information and financial statements, including the notes
thereto, contained elsewhere or incorporated by reference in this Prospectus.
As used in this Prospectus, unless the context indicates otherwise, (i) the
"Company" refers to Furniture Brands International, Inc. and its subsidiaries,
(ii) "Broyhill" refers to Broyhill Furniture Industries, Inc. and its
subsidiaries, (iii) "Lane" refers to The Lane Company Incorporated and its
subsidiaries, (iv) "Thomasville" refers to Thomasville Furniture Industries,
Inc. and its subsidiaries and (v) "Action Industries" refers to Action
Industries, Inc., a subsidiary of Lane. Unless otherwise indicated, the
information in this Prospectus assumes that the U.S. Underwriters' over-
allotment option is not exercised.
 
                                  THE COMPANY
 
  The Company believes that it is the largest manufacturer of residential
furniture in the United States based on domestic revenues (excluding estimated
revenues of competitors from fabrics and decorative accessories). The Company
markets its products under three of the best known brand names in the
industry--Broyhill, Lane and Thomasville. The Company is a quality and style
leader across a broad spectrum of price categories from "premium" priced home
furnishings to lower priced ready-to-assemble ("RTA") furniture. The Company
distributes its products through a diverse network of national, regional and
local retailers, including one of the largest systems of independently-owned
dedicated retail outlets in the residential furniture industry. Management
believes that the acquisition of Thomasville in December 1995 has significantly
enhanced the Company's competitive strengths and positions the Company to
continue to increase its market share, sales and earnings. For the twelve
months ended March 31, 1997, the Company had net sales of $1.7 billion, EBITDA
(as hereinafter defined) of $190.3 million, net income before extraordinary
items of $60.4 million and earnings per share of $0.94.
 
  The Company is organized into three primary operating subsidiaries of similar
size which target particular product and price categories as described below:
 
  BROYHILL. Broyhill is a leader in the "good" and "better" price categories,
which are two of the largest segments of the residential furniture market.
Management believes Broyhill is the largest full line manufacturer of
residential furniture under one brand name, and Broyhill has been rated the
number one brand in the industry in terms of brand awareness by several recent
consumer surveys. The Company believes that the Broyhill Fontana collection has
been the best selling furniture collection in the industry for the last three
years, although there are no published industry figures available. Broyhill
distributes its products through an extensive distribution network of more than
6,200 independently-owned retail locations, including 345 dedicated Broyhill
Showcase Galleries and 415 dedicated Broyhill Furniture Centers.
 
  LANE. Lane manufactures specialty products for niche markets in the "better,"
"best" and "premium" price categories. The Company believes that Lane is the
largest domestic manufacturer of cedar chests, although there are no published
industry figures available. In addition, Lane, through Action Industries, its
largest operating unit, is one of the leading manufacturers of motion furniture
and recliners in the United States. Lane is one of the most widely recognized
brands in the residential furniture industry and has established a reputation
for innovative marketing and quality designs. Lane distributes its products
through an extensive distribution network of more than 16,000 independently-
owned retail locations, including 294 dedicated furniture galleries.
 
  THOMASVILLE. Thomasville manufactures furniture which embodies the widely
recognized "Thomasville Look" for both the "best" and "premium" price
categories. Thomasville has been rated the "highest quality" brand by several
recent consumer surveys. Management believes that the Collector's Cherry and
the Mahogany Collection have consistently been among the best selling
collections in the industry. Thomasville distributes its
 
                                       3
<PAGE>
 
products through approximately 635 independently-owned retail locations,
including 239 dedicated Thomasville Galleries and 82 free-standing Thomasville
Home Furnishings stores, which exclusively feature Thomasville furniture. The
Company also produces a separate line of lower priced RTA and promotional
furniture.
 
  The Company believes that in addition to its substantial size relative to
most of its competitors, the Company's competitive strengths include its: (i)
widely recognized brand names; (ii) broad range of product offerings across all
price categories; (iii) extensive distribution networks, including dedicated
galleries located in independently-owned retail locations; (iv) innovative,
high quality products; (v) highly efficient, low cost manufacturing
capabilities; and (vi) experienced management teams. Management believes that
these competitive strengths position the Company to continue to increase its
market share in the highly-fragmented residential furniture manufacturing
industry.
 
                                GROWTH STRATEGY
 
  The Company seeks to grow both sales and profits and increase its market
share by executing the following strategies:
 
  ENHANCING BRAND NAME STRENGTH. Brand name recognition is a critical factor in
consumer purchases of furniture. The Company believes that consumer recognition
of its brand names is a key to increasing its market share. The Company has
three of the six most recognized brand names in the residential furniture
industry--Broyhill, Lane and Thomasville. The Company is committed to continue
to strengthen its brand names through advertising in various media including
network and cable television and highly read consumer magazines such as People,
Reader's Digest, Sports Illustrated, Architectural Digest, Good Housekeeping
and Better Homes and Gardens among many others, in addition to its dealer
cooperative advertising program.
 
  EXPANDING DEDICATED DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS. The Company has generated
increased sales volume and has strengthened its alliances with key retailers by
distributing its products through independently-owned dedicated retail outlets,
such as galleries, which tend to have higher sales per square foot and faster
inventory turns than non-gallery locations. The Company continues to expand
these distribution channels by attracting additional retailers in new and
existing geographic markets to participate in the Company's gallery programs.
Since the beginning of 1996, the number of dedicated galleries, furniture
centers and stores has increased from 1,265 to 1,375. Furthermore, the Company
intends to expand its current network of 82 free-standing Thomasville Home
Furnishings stores by approximately 25 by the end of 1997.
 
  INCREASING SALES TO NATIONAL AND LARGE REGIONAL RETAILERS. The Company is
well positioned to benefit from the increasing presence of national and large
regional retailers in the residential furniture industry. According to
Furniture/Today, in 1995 the top 10 furniture retailers represented 16% of
total sales versus 10% in 1985. The Company's overall size, breadth of product,
strength of brands and national scope of distribution enable it to service
national retailers, such as J.C. Penney, Sears, Levitz and Heilig-Meyers, and
key regional companies, such as Breuner's, Haverty's and Roberds, more
effectively than the Company's smaller competitors. For example, during 1997
the Company has increased the number of products it offers to J.C. Penney and
is currently in discussion with other major retailers for additional increases
in square footage dedicated to the Company's broad range of products.
Furthermore, the Company's unique competitive position enabled it to establish
an innovative alliance with Carl's Furniture, an independent retailer based in
Florida which has opened a new location dedicated to the Company's products.
The Company intends to pursue similar alliances with other retailers.
 
  PENETRATING NEW MARKETS. The Company is actively pursuing sales opportunities
in new markets where it seeks to enhance distribution. In the United States,
management is targeting key furniture retailers in important geographic
territories, particularly portions of the West Coast and New England. In
addition, the Company
 
                                       4
<PAGE>
 
believes there is substantial opportunity for growth in the international
export market, particularly Canada, Europe, Japan and the Middle East.
Management has implemented a more aggressive international strategy across all
of its operating companies to improve the sales, marketing and distribution of
its products outside the United States. For the three months ended March 31,
1997, international sales were $17.0 million, an increase of 17.3% versus the
comparable period for the prior year.
 
  EMPHASIZING NEW AND GROWING PRODUCT AREAS. The Company emphasizes development
of new high margin products in growing product areas. For example, the Company
has become a leader in the fast growing motion furniture and recliner segments.
The Company has recently introduced two new recliners, an oversized model for
larger customers and a two-piece model with an ottoman footrest, that it
believes will allow it to further increase market share in this segment.
Furthermore, the Company continues to design innovative new products in other
areas including the growing home office and home entertainment center markets.
 
  MAXIMIZING OPERATING MARGINS. The Company is successfully implementing gross
profit improvement programs that management uses in its strategic and
operational planning to maximize gross profit margins and, thereby, provide the
Company with additional funds for purposes such as increased advertising and
product development. These programs include continuous product profitability
review, new product introductions, pricing strategies and management incentive
programs. Management believes that these programs have contributed to the
Company achieving among the highest EBITDA margins of publicly-owned U.S.
residential furniture manufacturing companies in recent years. For the quarter
ended March 31, 1997, the Company's EBITDA margin increased to 11.2%, as
compared to 10.6% for the prior year comparable period. Management believes
opportunities exist to increase further the EBITDA margins of its operating
companies through continued implementation of these programs. For example, the
Company recently initiated efforts to realign several manufacturing facilities
at Thomasville and Lane to increase capacity utilization and reduce overall
production costs. Management believes that these actions will result in annual
savings of approximately $3.5 million beginning in 1997.
 
  EXPANDING OPERATING COMPANY COORDINATION. The Company has historically
managed its operating units on a stand-alone basis. Increasingly since the
acquisition of Thomasville and the appointment of Wilbert G. (Mickey) Holliman
as President and Chief Executive Officer, the Company has concentrated on
enhancing the coordination among its operating companies. As a result of this
enhanced coordination, the Company has begun to achieve operating efficiencies
and believes it has the opportunity to further improve operating efficiencies
and results. These opportunities include (i) cost savings generated through
volume purchasing; (ii) reductions in future capital expenditures through
better utilization of existing capacity; (iii) complementary sales and
marketing activities; (iv) joint international sourcing; and (v) shared
operating experience and expertise. The Company has taken actions to capitalize
on these opportunities by moving senior managers among operating companies to
encourage coordination and, in several instances, by shifting manufacturing
from one operating company to another to improve capacity utilization. In
addition, by combining the purchases of various raw materials (such as foam,
cartons, springs and fabric) and services of the operating companies, the
Company has been able to realize cost savings.
 
                                       5
<PAGE>
 
 
                  SELLING STOCKHOLDERS AND COMPANY REPURCHASE
   
  Apollo Investment Fund, L.P. ("Apollo") and Lion Advisors, L.P., on behalf of
an investment account under management ("Lion," and together with Apollo, the
"Selling Stockholders"), are selling 11,000,000 shares of Common Stock in the
Offerings and have granted the U.S. Underwriters an over-allotment option for
1,100,000 shares of Common Stock. In addition, the Company has agreed to
repurchase from the Selling Stockholders (i) 10,842,299 shares of Common Stock
at a price of $15.75 per share and (ii) warrants to purchase 290,821 shares of
Common Stock at a price of $8.62 per warrant (representing $15.75 per share
less the $7.13 per share warrant exercise price) (the "Company Repurchase").
The total purchase price is approximately $173.3 million. In the event that the
offering price per share to the public in the Offerings is equal to or greater
than $15.50, the repurchase price per share in the Company Repurchase will be
$15.50 and the repurchase price per warrant will be $8.37. The Company plans to
finance the Company Repurchase and related fees and expenses through a new term
loan of $200 million (the "New Term Loan"), with excess proceeds of
approximately $22 million used to reduce outstanding borrowings from the
revolving credit facility under the Company's existing secured credit agreement
(the "Secured Credit Agreement"). The Secured Credit Agreement will be amended
to include the New Term Loan. The New Term Loan will bear interest at a
floating rate equal to (i) the London interbank offered rate (LIBOR) plus 1.75%
or (ii) the prime rate plus 0.75%, at the Company's discretion, and matures in
10 years. Following the Offerings and the Company Repurchase, the Selling
Stockholders will own 1,100,000 shares of Common Stock unless the U.S.
Underwriters exercise their over-allotment option. If the over-allotment option
is exercised in full, the Selling Stockholders will own no shares of the
Company's Common Stock. See "Capitalization," "Selected Consolidated Historical
and Pro Forma Financial Information," "Selling Stockholders and Company
Repurchase" and "Underwriting."     
 
  In connection with the Offerings and the Company Repurchase, eight directors
associated with the Selling Stockholders will resign from the Board of
Directors. Although no persons have been nominated to replace these directors,
the Board of Directors intends to appoint four directors to fill board
positions left vacant upon the resignation of these directors. See
"Management." Additionally, the Company's Consulting Agreement (as defined
herein) with Apollo Advisors, L.P., an affiliate of the Selling Stockholders,
will terminate upon consummation of the Offerings. See "Certain Transactions."
The consummation of each of (i) the Offerings and (ii) the Company Repurchase
is contingent upon the consummation of the other and the closing of the New
Term Loan. On a pro forma basis reflecting the consummation of the Offerings,
the New Term Loan and the Company Repurchase, earnings per share for the year
ended December 31, 1996 would have been $0.90, an increase of $0.04 over actual
results, and earnings per share for the three months ended March 31, 1997 would
have been $0.29, an increase of $0.02 over actual results. See
"Capitalization," "Selected Consolidated Historical and Pro Forma Financial
Information" and "Selling Stockholders and Company Repurchase."
 
                                       6
<PAGE>
 
 
                                 THE OFFERINGS
 
<TABLE>
<S>                       <C>
Common Stock offered in
 the Offerings:
  U.S. Offering..........  8,800,000 shares
  International Offer-     2,200,000 shares
   ing...................
    Total................ 11,000,000 shares(1)
Common Stock to be out-   50,624,767 shares(2)
 standing................
Use of proceeds.......... All of the proceeds from the sale of the shares will
                          be received by the Selling Stockholders.
Conditions to the Offer-  The consummation of each of (i) the Offerings and
 ings.................... (ii) the Company Repurchase is contingent upon the
                          consummation of the other and the closing of the New
                          Term Loan.
New York Stock Exchange   FBN
 symbol..................
</TABLE>
- --------
(1)  Excludes 1,100,000 shares that may be offered under an over-allotment
     option granted by the Selling Stockholders. See "Underwriting."
 
(2)  Reflects the repurchase of 10,842,299 shares of the Common Stock in the
     Company Repurchase. Excludes, as of March 31, 1997, 5,227,151 shares of
     Common Stock issuable pursuant to warrants or stock options, consisting of
     1,386,594 shares of Common Stock issuable pursuant to warrants exercisable
     at $7.13 per share (net of 290,821 shares of Common Stock issuable
     pursuant to warrants to be acquired in the Company Repurchase) and
     3,840,557 shares of Common Stock issuable pursuant to management stock
     options, 1,623,352 of which are currently exercisable.
 
                                ----------------
 
  Information contained or incorporated by reference in this Prospectus
contains "forward-looking statements" which can be identified by the use of
forward-looking terminology such as "believes," "expects," "may," "will,"
"should," or "anticipates" or the negative thereof or other variations thereon
or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy. See, e.g., "Growth
Strategy" in this Prospectus Summary, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and "Business-- Growth
Strategy." No assurance can be given that the future results covered by the
forward-looking statements will be achieved. The Risk Factors beginning on page
10 constitute cautionary statements identifying important factors with respect
to such forward-looking statements, including certain risks and uncertainties,
that could cause actual results to vary materially from the future results
covered in such forward-looking statements. Other factors could also cause
actual results to vary materially from the future results covered in such
forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to publicly
release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect any future
events or occurrences.
 
                                ----------------
 
  The Company was incorporated in Delaware in 1921. Its principal executive
offices are located at 101 South Hanley Road, St. Louis, Missouri 63105-3493,
and its telephone number at such location is (314) 863-1100.
 
                                       7
<PAGE>
 
 SUMMARY CONSOLIDATED HISTORICAL AND PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
                                      DATA
 
  The following summary consolidated historical and pro forma condensed
consolidated financial data of the Company are derived from and should be read
in connection with the historical consolidated financial statements of the
Company (the "Consolidated Financial Statements") included elsewhere or
incorporated by reference in this Prospectus. The pro forma condensed
consolidated financial and other data is presented for comparative purposes
only and is not necessarily indicative of the results of operations in the
future or of what the results of operations would have been had the
transactions assumed therein been consummated at the beginning of the period
for which the statement is presented.
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                    YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,                  THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31,
                          ----------------------------------------------    ----------------------------------
                                                              PRO FORMA                           PRO FORMA
                             1994        1995        1996      1996(1)        1996       1997      1997(1)
                          ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------    ---------  ---------  ------------
                                        (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S>                       <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>           <C>        <C>        <C>
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
 DATA:
 Net sales..............  $1,072,696  $1,073,889  $1,696,795  $1,696,795    $ 423,947  $ 449,861  $ 449,861
 Costs and expenses:
 Cost of operations.....     752,528     760,393   1,228,355   1,228,355      308,883    326,187    326,187
 Selling, general and
  administrative ex-
  penses................     199,333     198,321     283,432     282,795(2)    70,204     73,511     73,352(2)
 Depreciation and amor-
  tization(3)...........      35,776      36,104      54,082      54,082       14,178     14,596     14,596
                          ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------    ---------  ---------  ---------
 Earnings from opera-
  tions.................      85,059      79,071     130,926     131,563       30,682     35,567     35,726
 Interest expense.......      37,886      33,845      45,217      58,516(4)    13,715      9,089     12,501(4)
 Other income, net:
 Gain on insurance set-
  tlement(5)............         --        7,882         --          --           --         --         --
 Other..................       1,668       3,930       2,583       2,583          747        872        872
                          ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------    ---------  ---------  ---------
 Earnings before income
  tax expense, discon-
  tinued operations and
  extraordinary item....      48,841      57,038      88,292      75,630       17,714     27,350     24,097
 Income tax expense.....      20,908      22,815      34,070      29,184(6)     6,867     10,291      9,047(6)
                          ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------    ---------  ---------  ---------
 Net earnings from con-
  tinuing opera-
  tions(3)(7)...........  $   27,933  $   34,223  $   54,222  $   46,446    $  10,847  $  17,059  $  15,050
                          ==========  ==========  ==========  ==========    =========  =========  =========
 Per share of common
  stock--fully diluted:
 Net earnings from con-
  tinuing opera-
  tions(3)(7)...........  $     0.54  $     0.65  $    0 .86  $     0.90    $    0.19  $    0.27  $    0.29
                          ==========  ==========  ==========  ==========    =========  =========  =========
 Weighted average common
  and common equivalent
  shares outstanding--
  fully diluted (in
  thousands)............      51,506      52,317      62,871      51,884       55,982     63,732     52,745
OTHER DATA:
 EBITDA(8)..............  $  120,835  $  115,175  $  185,008  $  185,645    $  44,860  $  50,163  $  50,322
 EBITDA margin..........        11.3%       10.7%       10.9%       10.9%        10.6%      11.2%      11.2%
 Net cash provided by
  continuing operating
  activities............  $   22,016  $   91,990  $  115,420                $  37,285  $  14,802
 Net cash used by in-
  vesting activities....  $  (15,487) $ (370,535) $  (37,578)               $  (5,462) $  (8,225)
 Net cash provided
  (used) by financing
  activities............  $    7,502  $  272,812  $  (84,889)               $ (27,663) $  (7,279)
</TABLE>    
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                         AT MARCH 31, 1997
                                                      -----------------------
                                                        ACTUAL   PRO FORMA(1)
                                                      ---------- ------------
                                                      (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                   <C>        <C>
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
 Cash and cash equivalents........................... $   18,663  $   18,663
 Working capital.....................................    479,282     479,282
 Total assets........................................  1,288,631   1,292,381(9)
 Long-term debt......................................    567,800     745,820(10)
 Total shareholders' equity..........................    434,237     259,967(11)
</TABLE>    
 
 
                                       8
<PAGE>
 
- --------
(1)  Pro forma information reflects consummation of the Offerings, the New Term
     Loan and the Company Repurchase as of the first day of the period
     presented for Statement of Operations Data and Other Data and at March 31,
     1997 for Balance Sheet Data. See "Selected Consolidated Historical and Pro
     Forma Financial Information."
 
(2)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for the decrease in selling, general and
     administrative expenses of $637 for 1996 and $159 for the three months
     ended March 31, 1997 that is related to the cancellation of the Consulting
     Agreement and a decline in fees paid to outside board members due to a
     reduction in the size of the Board of Directors arising from the
     resignation of eight individuals associated with the Selling Stockholders
     and the appointment of four replacement directors. See "Management" and
     "Certain Transactions."
 
(3)  Included in the Company's statement of operations are depreciation and
     amortization charges related to adjustments of assets and liabilities to
     fair value made in 1992. These adjustments are a result of the Company's
     1992 reorganization and the adoption of AICPA Statement of Position
     ("SOP") 90-7, "Financial Reporting by Entities in Reorganization under the
     Bankruptcy Code" (commonly referred to as "fresh-start" reporting) and are
     not the result of historical capital expenditures. Fair value adjustments
     included the write up of property, plant and equipment, trademarks and
     reorganization value in excess of identifiable assets. Due to the
     significance of these items, management believes that it is useful to
     isolate their impact on the statement of operations as shown below. This
     information does not represent and should not be considered an alternative
     to net earnings, any other measure of performance as determined by
     generally accepted accounting principles or as an indicator of operating
     performance. See "Intangible Assets" in Note 3 to the Company's
     Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes included elsewhere in
     this Prospectus.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                         THREE MONTHS
                                YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,                 ENDED MARCH 31,
                          ---------------------------------------  ---------------------------
                                                        PRO FORMA                    PRO FORMA
                            1994      1995      1996      1996      1996     1997      1997
                          --------  --------  --------  ---------  -------  -------  ---------
                                  (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S>                       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>        <C>      <C>      <C>
 Depreciation and amor-
  tization--fresh-
  start.................  $(16,900) $(15,922) $(16,285) $(16,285)  $(4,220) $(4,312)  $(4,312)
 After-tax impact on net
  earnings..............   (13,051)  (12,470)  (12,697)  (12,697)   (3,259)  (3,301)   (3,301)
 Impact on earnings per
  share-fully diluted...     (0.25)    (0.24)    (0.20)    (0.24)    (0.06)   (0.05)    (0.06)
</TABLE>
   
(4)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for the increase in interest expense of
     $13,299 for 1996 and $3,412 for the three months ended March 31, 1997 that
     is related to the New Term Loan, assuming an interest rate of 7.27% for
     1996 and 7.34% for the three months ended March 31, 1997, and additional
     borrowings under the Secured Credit Agreement.     
 
(5)  Gain on insurance settlement related to the November 1994 fire at the
     Company's particleboard plant.
   
(6)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for the income tax benefit in the amount
     of $4,886 for 1996 and $1,244 for the three months ended March 31, 1997
     arising as a result of the increased interest expense and cancellation of
     the Consulting Agreement.     
 
(7)  On November 17, 1994, the Company distributed the common stock of each of
     The Florsheim Shoe Company and Converse Inc. (which in aggregate
     represented the Company's "Footwear Segment") to the Company's
     shareholders. The financial results of the Footwear Segment are reported
     as discontinued operations, and as such the Company's historical results
     of operations were restated.
 
(8)  EBITDA is defined as earnings from operations before depreciation and
     amortization and therefore does not include other income, net. EBITDA is
     not intended to represent cash flows from operating activities as measured
     in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Nor has it
     been presented as an alternative to net income from operations or cash
     flows from operating activities computed in accordance with generally
     accepted accounting principles as an indicator of operating performance.
     EBITDA is presented solely as supplemental disclosure because the Company
     believes that it is a good measure of the Company's ability to generate
     cash to enable it to make capital expenditures and meet its other
     obligations. The Company believes that EBITDA may be a better indicator
     for this purpose than earnings from operations because of the significant
     fresh-start depreciation and amortization charges described in Note 3
     above. Because all companies and analysts do not calculate EBITDA in an
     identical manner, however, EBITDA as presented above may not necessarily
     be comparable to similarly-titled measures of other companies.
   
(9)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for deferred financing fees in the amount
     of $3,750 for the New Term Loan.     
   
(10)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for an increase in long-term debt of
      $178,020 resulting from borrowing $200,000 from the New Term Loan and the
      payment of $21,980 under the revolving credit facility of the Secured
      Credit Agreement.     
 
(11)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for the repurchase of the 10,842,299
      shares of Common Stock and warrants to purchase 290,821 shares of Common
      Stock in the Company Repurchase, and estimated fees and expenses
      associated with the Offerings in the amount of $1,000.
 
 
                                       9
<PAGE>
 
                                 RISK FACTORS
 
  Prospective purchasers should carefully consider the following factors,
together with other information contained and incorporated by reference in
this Prospectus, in evaluating an investment in the shares of Common Stock.
 
ECONOMIC CONDITIONS
 
  The furniture industry historically has been cyclical, fluctuating with
general economic cycles. During economic downturns, the furniture industry
tends to experience longer periods of recession and greater declines than the
general economy. The Company believes that the industry is significantly
influenced by economic conditions generally and particularly by consumer
behavior and confidence, the level of personal discretionary spending, housing
activity, interest rates, credit availability, demographics and overall
consumer confidence. These factors not only affect the ultimate consumer, but
also impact retailers, the Company's primary direct customers. There can be no
assurance that a prolonged economic downturn would not have a material adverse
effect on the Company. See "Business."
 
COMPETITION
 
  The residential furniture manufacturing business is highly competitive and
fragmented. Because of the Company's broad product lines, its products compete
with products made by a number of major furniture manufacturers. The elements
of competition include pricing, styling, quality and marketing. See
"Business--Competition."
 
SIGNIFICANT LEVERAGE
   
  The Company has a capital structure that contains leverage. After the
Offerings, the Company's Secured Credit Agreement will consist of the New Term
Loan totaling $200 million and a reducing revolving credit facility totaling
$475 million, of which $345 million was outstanding as of March 31, 1997. In
addition, the Company has a $225 million receivables securitization facility
(the "Receivables Securitization Facility") of which $210 million was
outstanding as of March 31, 1997. As of March 31, 1997, on a pro forma basis,
the Company's debt would have totaled approximately $746 million, and the
Company's debt to equity ratio on that date would have been 2.9:1. As a result
of the Company Repurchase, the Company will have negative tangible net worth.
This substantial indebtedness could reduce the Company's ability to respond to
changing business and economic conditions by impairing access to additional
financing and requiring a significant portion of the Company's cash flow from
operations to be used to service debt. The ability of the Company to further
reduce its debt and increase its equity will be dependent upon the future
performance of the Company, which will be subject to prevailing economic
conditions and to financial, business and other factors, including factors
beyond the control of the Company that affect its business and operations. In
February 1996, in order to reduce the impact of changes in interest rates on
its floating rate long-term debt, the Company entered into three-year interest
rate swap agreements having a total notional amount of $300 million.     
 
RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS IN CERTAIN DEBT INSTRUMENTS
 
  The Secured Credit Agreement to which the Company is a party contains a
number of covenants that restrict, among other things, the ability of the
Company to incur additional indebtedness, make capital expenditures, pay
dividends, repurchase capital stock, create liens, dispose of certain assets,
enter into sale and leaseback transactions, or engage in mergers. In addition,
under the Secured Credit Agreement, the Company is required to maintain
certain interest coverage and other financial ratios. Unfavorable operating
results could affect the Company's ability to pay debt service on its
outstanding indebtedness or to meet its debt covenants. The indebtedness under
the Secured Credit Agreement is secured by most of the assets of the Company.
Among other consequences, the terms of the Secured Credit Agreement could
increase the Company's vulnerability to adverse general economic conditions
and could impair the Company's ability to obtain additional financing in the
future and to take advantage of significant business opportunities that may
arise.
 
 
                                      10
<PAGE>
 
GOVERNMENTAL REGULATIONS
 
  The Company's operations must meet federal, state, and local regulatory
standards in the areas of safety, health, and environmental pollution
controls. Historically, these standards have not had any material adverse
effect on the Company's sales or operations. If the Company fails to comply
with such regulations, the Company could be subject to liability ranging from
monetary damages to injunctive action, which could adversely affect the
Company. Future changes to such regulations could also have a material adverse
effect on the Company. See "Business--Environmental Matters."
 
SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE
 
  The Company, certain of its officers and directors and the Selling
Stockholders have agreed not to sell any shares of Common Stock, other than
the shares offered hereby, for a period of 90 days following the consummation
of the Offerings without the prior written consent of Smith Barney Inc. as
representative of the Underwriters. After expiration of the lock-up period,
the Company, such officers and directors and the Selling Stockholders may sell
shares of Common Stock without regard to any such limitations. The sale of a
substantial number of shares by such persons could adversely affect the market
price of the Common Stock.
 
ABSENCE OF DIVIDENDS
 
  The Company does not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable
future, and the Secured Credit Agreement to which the Company is a party
restricts the payment of dividends. See "Price Range of Common Stock and
Dividend Policy."
 
ANTI-TAKEOVER PROVISIONS
 
  The Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation contains certain
provisions, including authorization to issue "blank check" preferred stock
("Preferred Stock"), prohibition of stockholder action by written consent and
the requirement of 75% ("supermajority") stockholder vote to alter, amend,
repeal or adopt certain provisions of the Restated Certificate of
Incorporation. In addition, the Company's Restated Certificate of
Incorporation contains provisions limiting the ability of any person who is
the beneficial owner of more than 10% of the outstanding voting stock to
effect certain transactions involving the Company unless approved by a
majority of the Disinterested Directors (as defined in the Restated
Certificate of Incorporation of the Company). Such provisions could impede any
merger, consolidation, takeover or other business combination involving the
Company or discourage a potential acquiror from making a tender offer or
otherwise attempting to obtain control of the Company. See "Description of
Capital Stock."
 
                                      11
<PAGE>
 
                                USE OF PROCEEDS
 
  All of the shares of Common Stock being offered hereby are being offered by
the Selling Stockholders. The Company will not receive any of the proceeds
from the sale of such shares.
 
                PRICE RANGE OF COMMON STOCK AND DIVIDEND POLICY
 
  The Company's Common Stock is listed and traded on the New York Stock
Exchange under the symbol "FBN." The following table sets forth for the
periods indicated the high and low sales prices of the Common Stock, as
reported on the New York Stock Exchange Composite Tape.
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                                HIGH    LOW
                                                                ----    ----
<S>                                                             <C>     <C>
1995:
  First Quarter................................................ $ 7 1/4 $ 5 3/4
  Second Quarter...............................................   6 7/8   5 5/8
  Third Quarter................................................   8 1/8   5 1/2
  Fourth Quarter...............................................   9 1/4    7
1996:
  First Quarter................................................  10 1/4   8 1/4
  Second Quarter...............................................  12 1/8    9
  Third Quarter................................................  14 5/8   9 3/4
  Fourth Quarter...............................................   15      12
1997:
  First Quarter................................................   16     13 5/8
  Second Quarter (April 1 through June 23).....................  17 1/8  14 1/4
</TABLE>    
   
  On June 23, 1997, the last reported sale price of the Common Stock on the
New York Stock Exchange was $17 per share. As of March 31, 1997, there were
approximately 3,000 holders of record of the Company's Common Stock.     
 
  The Company does not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable
future, and the Secured Credit Agreement to which the Company is a party
restricts the payment of dividends. Any future payment of dividends will
depend upon the financial condition, capital requirements and earnings of the
Company, as well as upon other factors that the Board of Directors may deem
relevant.
 
                                      12
<PAGE>
 
                                 CAPITALIZATION
 
  The following table sets forth the consolidated capitalization of the Company
on a historical basis and a pro forma basis to reflect the Offerings, the New
Term Loan and the Company Repurchase as of March 31, 1997. The information in
the table below is qualified in its entirety by, and should be read in
conjunction with, the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company included
elsewhere in this Prospectus.
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                                         MARCH 31, 1997
                                                     ------------------------
                                                       ACTUAL     PRO FORMA
                                                     ----------- ------------
                                                     (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                  <C>         <C>
Cash and cash equivalents........................... $    18,663 $    18,663
                                                     =========== ===========
Secured credit agreement
  Revolving credit facility......................... $   345,000 $   323,020(1)
  New term loan.....................................         --      200,000(1)
Receivables securitization facility.................     210,000     210,000
Other...............................................      12,800      12,800
                                                     ----------- -----------
    Long-term debt..................................     567,800     745,820(1)
                                                     ----------- -----------
Shareholders' equity:
  Preferred stock, 10,000,000 shares authorized, no
   par value, none issued and outstanding...........         --          --
  Common Stock, 100,000,000 shares authorized, $1.00
   stated value (no par value), 61,467,066 shares
   issued and outstanding (actual) and 50,624,767
   shares issued and outstanding (pro forma)........      61,467      50,625(1)
  Paid-in capital...................................     276,040     112,612(1)
  Retained earnings.................................      96,730      96,730
                                                     ----------- -----------
    Total shareholders' equity......................     434,237     259,967
                                                     ----------- -----------
Total capitalization................................ $ 1,002,037 $ 1,005,787
                                                     =========== ===========
</TABLE>    
- --------
(1)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for the repurchase of the 10,842,299
     shares of Common Stock and warrants to purchase 290,821 shares of Common
     Stock in the Company Repurchase.
 
 
                                       13
<PAGE>
 
     SELECTED CONSOLIDATED HISTORICAL AND PRO FORMA FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
  The following selected consolidated historical financial data of the Company
should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and
related notes included elsewhere and incorporated by reference in this
Prospectus. The selected consolidated historical financial data at December
31, 1994, 1995 and 1996, and for the years ended December 31, 1994, 1995 and
1996 are derived from the audited Consolidated Financial Statements of the
Company, included herein. The selected consolidated historical financial data
at March 31, 1996 and 1997 and for the three months ended March 31, 1996 and
1997 are unaudited, but include all adjustments, consisting of normal
recurring accruals, which management of the Company considers necessary for a
fair presentation. The results for the three months ended March 31, 1997 are
not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.
The pro forma information is unaudited and presented for comparative purposes
only, and is not necessarily indicative of what the Company's financial
position or results of operations would have been if the Offerings, the New
Term Loan and the Company Repurchase had been completed on the dates indicated
as of the first day of the period presented for Statement of Operations Data
and Other Data and at March 31, 1997 for Balance Sheet Data.
 
  In 1992, the Company was required to adopt "fresh-start" reporting
principles in accordance with AICPA SOP 90-7, "Financial Reporting by Entities
in Reorganization under the Bankruptcy Code," which resulted in the
revaluation of all assets and liabilities to reflect the Company's estimated
reorganization value.
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                    YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,                 THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31,
                          ----------------------------------------------    ------------------------------
                                                              PRO FORMA                          PRO FORMA
                             1994        1995        1996      1996(1)        1996       1997     1997(1)
                          ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------    ---------  --------  ---------
                                       (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S>                       <C>         <C>         <C>         <C>           <C>        <C>       <C>
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
 DATA:
 Net sales..............  $1,072,696  $1,073,889  $1,696,795  $1,696,795    $ 423,947  $449,861  $ 449,861
 Costs and expenses:
 Cost of operations.....     752,528     760,393   1,228,355   1,228,355      308,883   326,187    326,187
 Selling, general and
  administrative ex-
  penses................     199,333     198,321     283,432     282,795(2)    70,204    73,511     73,352(2)
 Depreciation and amor-
  tization(3)...........      35,776      36,104      54,082      54,082       14,178    14,596     14,596
                          ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------    ---------  --------  ---------
 Earnings from opera-
  tions.................      85,059      79,071     130,926     131,563       30,682    35,567     35,726
 Interest expense.......      37,886      33,845      45,217      58,516(4)    13,715     9,089     12,501(4)
 Other income, net:
 Gain on insurance set-
  tlement(5)............         --        7,882         --          --           --        --         --
 Other..................       1,668       3,930       2,583       2,583          747       872        872
                          ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------    ---------  --------  ---------
 Earnings before income
  tax expense,
  discontinued opera-
  tions and extraordi-
  nary item.............      48,841      57,038      88,292      75,630       17,714    27,350     24,097
 Income tax expense.....      20,908      22,815      34,070      29,184(6)     6,867    10,291      9,047(6)
                          ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------    ---------  --------  ---------
 Net earnings from con-
  tinuing opera-
  tions(3)(7)...........  $   27,933  $   34,223  $   54,222  $   46,446    $  10,847  $ 17,059  $  15,050
                          ==========  ==========  ==========  ==========    =========  ========  =========
 Per share of common
  stock--fully diluted:
 Net earnings from con-
  tinuing opera-
  tions(3)(7)...........  $     0.54  $     0.65  $     0.86  $     0.90    $    0.19  $   0.27  $    0.29
                          ==========  ==========  ==========  ==========    =========  ========  =========
 Weighted average common
  and common equivalent
  shares outstanding--
  fully diluted (in
  thousands)............      51,506      52,317      62,871      51,884       55,982    63,732     52,745
OTHER DATA:
 Gross profit(8)........  $  298,712  $  291,237  $  431,473  $  431,473    $ 105,333  $113,425  $ 113,425
 EBITDA(9)..............  $  120,835  $  115,175  $  185,008  $  185,645    $  44,860  $ 50,163  $  50,322
 EBITDA margin..........        11.3%       10.7%       10.9%       10.9%        10.6%     11.2%      11.2%
 Net cash provided by
  continuing operating
  activities............  $   22,016  $   91,990  $  115,420                $  37,285  $ 14,802
 Net cash used by in-
  vesting activities....  $  (15,487) $ (370,535) $  (37,578)               $  (5,462) $ (8,225)
 Net cash provided
  (used) by financing
  activities............  $    7,502  $  272,812  $  (84,889)               $ (27,663) $ (7,279)
</TABLE>    
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                 AT DECEMBER 31,           AT MARCH 31,
                           ---------------------------- -------------------
                                                                  PRO FORMA
                             1994     1995      1996      1997     1997(1)
                           -------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
                                        (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                        <C>      <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>
BALANCE SHEET DATA:
 Cash and cash equiva-
  lents................... $ 32,145 $  26,412 $  19,365 $  18,663 $  18,663
 Working capital..........  308,323   455,036   462,661   479,282   479,282
 Total assets.............  881,735 1,291,739 1,269,204 1,288,631 1,292,381(10)
 Long-term debt...........  426,253   723,679   572,600   567,800   745,820(11)
 Total shareholders' equi-
  ty......................  275,394   301,156   419,657   434,237   259,967(12)
</TABLE>    
 
                                      14
<PAGE>
 
- --------
(1)  Pro forma information reflects consummation of the Offerings, the New
     Term Loan and the Company Repurchase as of the first day of the period
     presented for Statement of Operations Data and Other Data and at March
     31, 1997 for Balance Sheet Data.
 
(2)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for the decrease in selling, general and
     administrative expenses of $637 for 1996 and $159 for the three months
     ended March 31, 1997 that is related to the cancellation of the
     Consulting Agreement and a decline in fees paid to outside board members
     due to a reduction in the size of the Board of Directors arising from the
     resignation of eight individuals associated with the Selling Stockholders
     and the appointment of four replacement directors. See "Management" and
     "Certain Transactions."
 
(3)  Included in the Company's statement of operations are depreciation and
     amortization charges related to adjustments of assets and liabilities to
     fair value made in 1992. These adjustments are a result of the Company's
     1992 reorganization and the adoption of AICPA Statement of Position
     ("SOP") 90-7, "Financial Reporting by Entities in Reorganization under
     the Bankruptcy Code" (commonly referred to as "fresh-start" reporting)
     and are not the result of historical capital expenditures. Fair value
     adjustments included the write up of property, plant and equipment,
     trademarks and reorganization value in excess of identifiable assets. Due
     to the significance of these items, management believes that it is useful
     to isolate their impact on the statement of operations as shown below.
     This information does not represent and should not be considered an
     alternative to net earnings, any other measure of performance as
     determined by generally accepted accounting principles or as an indicator
     of operating performance. See "Intangible Assets" in Note 3 to the
     Company's Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes included
     elsewhere in this Prospectus.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            THREE MONTHS
                                   YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,                 ENDED MARCH 31,
                             ---------------------------------------  ---------------------------
                                                           PRO FORMA                    PRO FORMA
                               1994      1995      1996      1996      1996     1997      1997
                             --------  --------  --------  ---------  -------  -------  ---------
                                     (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
   <S>                       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>        <C>      <C>      <C>
   Depreciation and amorti-
    zation--fresh-start....  $(16,900) $(15,922) $(16,285) $(16,285)  $(4,220) $(4,312)  $(4,312)
   After-tax impact on net
    earnings...............   (13,051)  (12,470)  (12,697)  (12,697)   (3,259)  (3,301)   (3,301)
   Impact on earnings per
    share-fully diluted....     (0.25)    (0.24)    (0.20)    (0.24)    (0.06)   (0.05)    (0.06)
</TABLE>
   
(4)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for the increase in interest expense of
     $13,299 for 1996 and $3,412 for the three months ended March 31, 1997
     that is related to the New Term Loan, assuming an interest rate of 7.27%
     for 1996 and 7.34% for the three months ended March 31, 1997, and
     additional borrowings under the Secured Credit Agreement.     
 
(5)  Gain on insurance settlement related to the November 1994 fire at the
     Company's particleboard plant.
   
(6)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for the income tax benefit in the amount
     of $4,886 for 1996 and $1,244 for the three months ended March 31, 1997
     arising as a result of the increased interest expense and cancellation of
     the Consulting Agreement.     
 
(7)  On November 17, 1994, the Company distributed the common stock of each of
     The Florsheim Shoe Company and Converse Inc. (which in aggregate
     represented the Company's "Footwear Segment") to the Company's
     shareholders. The financial results of the Footwear Segment are reported
     as discontinued operations, and as such the Company's historical results
     of operations were restated.
 
(8)  The Company believes that gross profit provides useful information
     regarding a Company's financial performance. Gross profit should not be
     considered in isolation or as an alternative to net earnings, an
     indicator of the Company's operating performance, or an alternative to
     the Company's cash flow from operating activities as a measure of
     liquidity. Gross profit has been calculated by subtracting cost of
     operations and the portion of depreciation associated with cost of goods
     sold from net sales. Pro forma information reflects the adjustments set
     forth in Note 1 above.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                THREE MONTHS
                                     YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,   ENDED MARCH 31,
                                    -------------------------- ---------------
                                      1994     1995     1996    1996    1997
                                    -------- -------- -------- ------- -------
                                              (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
   <S>                              <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>     <C>
   Net sales....................... $1,072.7 $1,073.9 $1,696.8 $ 423.9 $ 449.9
   Cost of operations..............    752.5    760.4  1,228.4   308.9   326.2
   Depreciation (associated with
    cost of goods sold)............     21.5     22.3     36.9     9.7    10.3
                                    -------- -------- -------- ------- -------
   Gross profit.................... $  298.7 $  291.2 $  431.5 $ 105.3 $ 113.4
                                    ======== ======== ======== ======= =======
</TABLE>
 
(9)  EBITDA is defined as earnings from operations before depreciation and
     amortization and therefore does not include other income, net. EBITDA is
     not intended to represent cash flows from operating activities as
     measured in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Nor
     has it been presented as an alternative to net income from operations or
     cash flows from operating activities computed in accordance with
     generally accepted accounting principles as an indicator of operating
     performance. EBITDA is presented solely as supplemental disclosure
     because the Company believes that it is a good measure of the Company's
     ability to generate cash to enable it to make capital expenditures and
     meet its other obligations. The Company believes that EBITDA may be a
     better indicator for this purpose than earnings from operations because
     of the significant fresh-start depreciation and amortization charges
     described in Note 3 above. Because all companies and analysts do not
     calculate EBITDA in an identical manner, however, EBITDA as presented
     above may not necessarily be comparable to similarly-titled measures of
     other companies.
   
(10)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for deferred financing fees in the
      amount of $3,750 for the New Term Loan.     
   
(11)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for an increase in long-term debt of
      $178,020 resulting from borrowing $200,000 from the New Term Loan and
      the payment of $21,980 under the revolving credit facility of the
      Secured Credit Agreement.     
 
(12)  Reflects a pro forma adjustment for the repurchase of the 10,842,299
      shares of Common Stock and warrants to purchase 290,821 shares of Common
      Stock in the Company Repurchase, and estimated fees and expenses
      associated with the Offerings in the amount of $1,000.
 
                                      15
<PAGE>
 
                    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
                 FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
GENERAL
 
  The following analysis of the financial condition and results of operations
of the Company should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial
Statements and related notes included elsewhere in this Prospectus. In
addition, management believes that the following factors have had a
significant effect on its recent financial statements.
 
  ACQUISITION OF THOMASVILLE. During the year ended December 31, 1995, the
Company had two primary operating subsidiaries, Broyhill and Lane. On December
29, 1995, the Company acquired Thomasville for approximately $339 million,
consisting of $331 million in cash and $8 million in assumed indebtedness. The
transaction was accounted for as a purchase and, since the acquisition
occurred as of the last business day of 1995, was reflected in the Company's
consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 1995. The Company's results of
operations for 1995 do not include any of the operations of Thomasville. The
cash portion of the acquisition of Thomasville was originally financed through
funds obtained by borrowing under the Company's secured credit agreement and
the Receivables Securitization Facility. On March 1, 1996, the Company
completed a public offering of 10,000,000 shares of Common Stock, generating
net cash proceeds of approximately $81.3 million, which were used to repay a
portion of this debt.
 
  1994 SPIN-OFF TRANSACTIONS. In order to focus on its core furniture
operations, the Company completed a spin-off of its footwear subsidiaries in
1994. On November 17, 1994, the Company simultaneously refinanced the majority
of its outstanding indebtedness and distributed to its stockholders all the
stock of its former footwear subsidiaries, Converse Inc. and The Florsheim
Shoe Company. Upon completion of this restructuring, the Company retained no
ownership interest in or management control of the footwear businesses.
Accordingly, the financial results of the footwear businesses have been
reflected as discontinued operations for all applicable periods.
 
  1992 ASSET REVALUATION (FRESH-START REPORTING). Included in the Company's
statement of operations are depreciation and amortization charges related to
adjustments of assets and liabilities to fair value made in 1992. These
adjustments are a result of the Company's 1992 reorganization and the adoption
of AICPA SOP 90-7, "Financial Reporting by Entities in Reorganization under
the Bankruptcy Code" (commonly referred to as "fresh-start" reporting) and are
not the result of historical capital expenditures. The impact of such
adjustments is that earnings per share for 1996 was $0.20 (or $0.24 pro forma
for the Company Repurchase) less than it would have been without "fresh-start"
reporting. See "Selected Consolidated Historical and Pro Forma Financial
Information--Impact of 1992 Asset Revaluation (Fresh-Start Reporting)."
 
                                      16
<PAGE>
 
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
  As an aid to understanding the Company's results of operations on a
comparative basis, the following table has been prepared to set forth certain
statement of operations and other data for fiscal 1994, 1995 and 1996, and the
three months ended March 31, 1996 and 1997. The results for fiscal 1994 and
1995 do not include any of the operations of Thomasville.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,                  THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31,
                          ----------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------
                                1994              1995              1996              1996             1997
                          ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ---------------- ----------------
                                   % OF NET          % OF NET          % OF NET         % OF NET         % OF NET
                          DOLLARS   SALES   DOLLARS   SALES   DOLLARS   SALES   DOLLARS  SALES   DOLLARS  SALES
                          -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ------- -------- ------- --------
                                                           (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
<S>                       <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>     <C>      <C>     <C>
Net sales...............  $1,072.7  100.0%  $1,073.9  100.0%  $1,696.8  100.0%  $ 423.9  100.0%  $ 449.9  100.0%
Cost of operations......     752.5   70.2      760.4   70.8    1,228.4   72.4     308.9   72.9     326.2   72.5
Selling, general and ad-
 ministrative expenses..     199.3   18.6      198.3   18.5      283.4   16.7      70.2   16.6      73.5   16.3
Depreciation and amorti-
 zation.................      35.8    3.3       36.1    3.3       54.1    3.3      14.1    3.3      14.6    3.3
                          --------  -----   --------  -----   --------  -----   -------  -----   -------  -----
Earnings from opera-
 tions..................      85.1    7.9       79.1    7.4      130.9    7.7      30.7    7.2      35.6    7.9
Interest expense........      37.9    3.5       33.9    3.2       45.2    2.7      13.7    3.2       9.1    2.0
Other income, net:
 Gain on insurance set-
  tlement...............       --     --         7.9    0.7        --     --        --     --        --     --
 Other..................       1.6    0.1        3.9    0.4        2.6    0.2       0.7    0.2       0.9    0.2
                          --------  -----   --------  -----   --------  -----   -------  -----   -------  -----
Earnings before income
 tax expense, discontin-
 ued operations and ex-
 traordinary item.......      48.8    4.5       57.0    5.3       88.3    5.2      17.7    4.2      27.4    6.1
Income tax expense......      20.9    1.9       22.8    2.1       34.1    2.0       6.9    1.6      10.3    2.3
                          --------  -----   --------  -----   --------  -----   -------  -----   -------  -----
Net earnings from
 continuing
 operations.............  $   27.9    2.6%  $   34.2    3.2%  $   54.2    3.2%  $  10.8    2.6%  $  17.1    3.8%
                          ========  =====   ========  =====   ========  =====   =======  =====   =======  =====
Gross profit(1).........  $  298.7   27.8%  $  291.2   27.1%  $  431.5   25.4%  $ 105.3   24.8%  $ 113.4   25.2%
EBITDA(2)...............  $  120.9   11.3%  $  115.2   10.7%  $  185.0   10.9%  $  44.9   10.6%  $  50.2   11.2%
</TABLE>
- --------
(1)  The Company believes that gross profit provides useful information
     regarding a company's financial performance. Gross profit should not be
     considered in isolation or as an alternative to net earnings, an
     indicator of the Company's operating performance, or an alternative to
     the Company's cash flow from operating activities as a measure of
     liquidity. Gross profit has been calculated by subtracting cost of
     operations and the portion of depreciation associated with cost of goods
     sold from net sales.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                THREE MONTHS
                                     YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,   ENDED MARCH 31,
                                    -------------------------- ---------------
                                      1994     1995     1996    1996    1997
                                    -------- -------- -------- ------- -------
                                              (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
   <S>                              <C>      <C>      <C>      <C>     <C>
   Net sales....................... $1,072.7 $1,073.9 $1,696.8 $ 423.9 $ 449.9
   Cost of operations..............    752.5    760.4  1,228.4   308.9   326.2
   Depreciation (associated with
    cost of goods sold)............     21.5     22.3     36.9     9.7    10.3
                                    -------- -------- -------- ------- -------
   Gross profit.................... $  298.7 $  291.2 $  431.5 $ 105.3 $ 113.4
                                    ======== ======== ======== ======= =======
</TABLE>
 
(2)  EBITDA is defined as earnings from operations before depreciation and
     amortization and therefore does not include other income, net. EBITDA is
     not intended to represent cash flows from operating activities as
     measured in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. Nor
     has it been presented as an alternative to net income from operations or
     cash flows from operating activities computed in accordance with
     generally accepted accounting principles as an indicator of operating
     performance. EBITDA is presented solely as supplemental disclosure
     because the Company believes that it is a good measure of the Company's
     ability to generate cash to enable it to make capital expenditures and
     meet its other obligations. The Company believes that EBITDA may be a
     better indicator for this purpose than earnings from operations because
     of the significant fresh-start depreciation and amortization charges
     described herein. Because all companies and analysts do not calculate
     EBITDA in an identical manner, however, EBITDA as presented above may not
     necessarily be comparable to similarly-titled measure of other companies.
 
                                      17
<PAGE>
 
 Three Months Ended March 31, 1997 Compared to Three Months Ended March 31,
1996
 
  Net sales for the three months ended March 31, 1997 were $449.9 million,
compared to $423.9 million in the three months ended March 31, 1996, an
increase of $26.0 million or 6.1%. The improved sales performance occurred at
each operating company and ranged, in varying degrees, across all product
lines. The increase in net sales was achieved through continued introductions
of new products and execution of marketing and advertising programs
emphasizing the Company's brand names.
 
  Cost of operations for the three months ended March 31, 1997 was $326.2
million compared to $308.9 million for the comparable prior year period. Cost
of operations as a percentage of net sales decreased from 72.9% for the three
months ended March 31, 1996 to 72.5% for the three months ended March 31,
1997. The decrease in cost of operations as a percentage of net sales resulted
from increased manufacturing efficiencies and continued efforts to improve
gross profit margins.
 
  Selling, general and administrative expenses for the three months ended
March 31, 1997 were $73.5 million compared with $70.2 million in the prior
year. As a percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative
expenses were 16.3% and 16.6% for the three months ended March 31, 1997 and
1996, respectively. The decrease reflects continuing success in the
implementation of the Company's cost reduction program.
 
  Interest expense totaled $9.1 million for the three months ended March 31,
1997 compared to $13.7 million in the prior year comparable period. The
decrease in interest expense resulted from lower long-term debt and reduced
interest rates.
 
  The effective income tax rates were 37.6% and 38.8% for the three months
ended March 31, 1997 and March 31, 1996, respectively. The effective tax rates
for each period were adversely impacted by certain nondeductible expenses
incurred and provisions for state and local taxes. The effective tax rate for
the three months ended March 31, 1997 was favorably impacted by the reduced
effect of the nondeductible expenses as a percentage of pretax earnings.
 
  Net earnings per common share on both a primary and fully diluted basis were
$0.27 for the three months ended March 31, 1997, compared with $0.19 for the
same period last year. Average common and common equivalent shares outstanding
used in the calculation of net earnings per common share on a primary and
fully diluted basis were 63,716,000 and 63,732,000, respectively, for the
three months ended March 31, 1997 and 55,794,000 and 55,982,000, respectively,
for the three months ended March 31, 1996.
 
  Gross profit for the three months ended March 31, 1997 was $113.4 million,
representing an increase of 7.7% over gross profit of $105.3 million for the
three months ended March 31, 1996. The increase in gross profit resulted from
the increase in sales and increased manufacturing efficiencies.
 
  EBITDA for the three months ended March 31, 1997 was $50.2 million,
representing an increase of 11.8% over EBITDA of $44.9 million for the three
months ended March 31, 1996. This increase resulted from the increase in sales
and improved operating margins.
 
 Year Ended December 31, 1996 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 1995
 
  Net sales for 1996 were $1.7 billion, compared with $1.07 billion for 1995.
The improved sales performance resulted primarily from the acquisition of
Thomasville. Had Thomasville been acquired at the beginning of 1995, net sales
for the year ended December 31, 1996 would have increased 4.5% over pro forma
net sales for the year ended December 31, 1995. The increase in net sales was
achieved in part through continued introductions of new products and emphasis
on the Company's brand names.
 
  Cost of operations for 1996 was $1.2 billion, compared to $760.4 million for
1995. The large increase was a result of the Company's acquisition of
Thomasville. Cost of operations as a percentage of net sales increased from
70.8% for 1995 to 72.4% for 1996. This increase was due to the acquisition of
Thomasville, which had
 
                                      18
<PAGE>
 
higher cost of operations as a percentage of net sales than the Company's
other operating subsidiaries. Had Thomasville been included on a pro forma
basis for 1995, cost of operations as a percentage of net sales would have
been 73.3%.
 
  Selling, general and administrative expenses increased to $283.4 million for
1996 from $198.3 million for 1995. The large increase was a result of the
Company's acquisition of Thomasville. As a percentage of net sales, selling,
general and administrative expenses were 16.7% for 1996 compared to 18.5% for
1995, reflecting the Company's acquisition of Thomasville.
 
  Depreciation and amortization for 1996 was $54.1 million, compared to $36.1
million for 1995. The large increase was a result of the Company's acquisition
of Thomasville. The amount of depreciation and amortization attributable to
the "fresh-start" reporting was $16.3 million and $15.9 million for 1996 and
1995, respectively.
 
  Interest expense for 1996 totaled $45.2 million, compared to $33.9 million
for 1995. The increase in interest expense reflects additional debt incurred
for the acquisition of Thomasville.
 
  Other income, net for 1996, totaled $2.6 million compared to $3.9 million
for 1995. For 1996, other income consisted of interest on short term
investments of $1.2 million and other miscellaneous income and (expense) items
totaling $1.4 million.
 
  For 1996, the Company provided for income taxes totaling $34.1 million on
earnings before income tax expense and extraordinary item, producing an
effective tax rate of 38.6%, compared to an effective tax rate for 1995 of
40.0%. The effective tax rates for such periods were adversely impacted by
certain nondeductible expenses incurred and provisions for state and local
income taxes.
 
  Net earnings per common share from continuing operations on a fully diluted
basis were $0.86 for 1996 compared with $0.65 for 1995. Weighted average
shares outstanding used in the calculation of net earnings per common share on
a primary and fully diluted basis were 61,946,000 and 62,871,000 in 1996 and
50,639,000 and 52,317,000 in 1995.
 
  Gross profit for 1996 was $431.5 million, representing an increase of 48.2%
over gross profit of $291.2 million for 1995. The increase resulted primarily
from the acquisition of Thomasville. The decrease in gross profit margin to
25.4% for 1996 from 27.1% in 1995 was due to the acquisition of Thomasville,
which had lower gross profit margins than the Company's other operating
subsidiaries. Had Thomasville been included on a pro forma basis in 1995,
gross profit margin would have been 24.6%.
 
  EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 1996 was $185.0 million, representing
an increase of 60.6% over EBITDA of $115.2 million for the prior year. This
increase resulted primarily from the acquisition of Thomasville. EBITDA as a
percentage of net sales increased to 10.9% for the year ended December 31,
1996 from 10.7% for the prior year. Had Thomasville been included on a pro
forma basis for the 1995 period, EBITDA as a percentage of net sales would
have been 10.0% for 1995. This increase in EBITDA margin reflects efficient
manufacturing activity as well as the Company's continuing efforts to enhance
profitability.
 
 Year Ended December 31, 1995 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 1994
 
  Net sales for 1995 were $1.07 billion, approximately unchanged from 1994.
During 1995, residential furniture manufacturers' results were adversely
affected by industry-wide price discounting and promotional activity in
response to weaker demand for durable goods. The Company was able to maintain
comparable net sales despite these conditions through new product
introductions at both Broyhill and Lane and continued advertising support of
its brand names.
 
  Cost of operations for 1995 was $760.4 million, compared to $752.5 million
for 1994, an increase of 1.0%. The increase in cost of operations as a
percentage of net sales from 70.2% in 1994 to 70.8% in 1995, was
 
                                      19
<PAGE>
 
primarily the result of unfavorable overhead absorption rates reflecting the
Company's effort to maintain manufacturing utilization rates at levels
necessary to balance inventory with incoming orders.
 
  Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased to $198.3 million in
1995 from $199.3 million in 1994, a reduction of 0.5%. In 1995, such expenses
included a $2.7 million non-cash expense related to stock options. As a
percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative expenses were
18.5% in 1995 compared to 18.6% in 1994, reflecting the Company's successful
implementation of its ongoing cost reduction programs.
 
  Depreciation and amortization for 1995 was $36.1 million, compared to $35.8
million in 1994, an increase of 0.9%. The amount of depreciation and
amortization attributable to the "fresh-start" reporting was $15.9 million and
$16.9 million, in 1995 and 1994, respectively.
 
  Interest expense for 1995 totaled $33.9 million and reflects twelve months
of interest expense on the Company's debt structure, which was substantially
refinanced as of December 29, 1995. Interest expense for 1995 was not
comparable to interest expense for 1994 as a result of the previous
refinancing of substantially all of the Company's debt in November 1994.
 
  Other income, net for 1995 totaled $11.8 million, compared to $1.6 million
in 1994. For 1995, other income consisted of a gain on insurance settlement of
$7.9 million pertaining to the November 1994 destruction of a particleboard
plant, interest income on short-term investments of $2.4 million and other
miscellaneous income and (expense) items totaling $1.5 million.
 
  For 1995, the Company provided for income taxes totaling $22.8 million on
earnings before income tax expense, discontinued operations and extraordinary
item, producing an effective tax rate of 40.0%, compared to an effective tax
rate for 1994 of 42.8%. The effective tax rates for such years were adversely
impacted by certain nondeductible expenses incurred and provisions for state
and local income taxes. The effective income tax rate for 1995 was favorably
impacted by special state income tax incentives granted in connection with the
issuance of certain industrial revenue bonds on behalf of one of the Company's
subsidiaries.
 
  Net earnings per common share for continuing operations on a fully diluted
basis were $0.65 and $0.54 for 1995 and 1994, respectively. Net earnings per
common share for continuing operations before gain on insurance settlement net
of income tax expense on a fully diluted basis were $0.56 and $0.54 for 1995
and 1994, respectively. Weighted average shares outstanding used in the
calculation of net earnings per common share on a primary and fully diluted
basis were 50,639,000 and 52,317,000 in 1995, and 51,495,000 and 51,506,000 in
1994.
 
  Gross profit for 1995 was $291.2 million, compared to $298.7 million for
1994, a decrease of 2.5%. Gross profit as a percentage of net sales declined
from 27.8% in 1994 to 27.1% in 1995, primarily as a result of lower factory
utilization rates at certain of the Company's manufacturing facilities
reflecting the Company's effort to balance inventories with incoming orders.
 
  EBITDA for 1995 was $115.2 million, compared to $120.9 million for 1994, a
decrease of 4.7%. EBITDA as a percentage of net sales decreased from 11.3% in
1994 to 10.7% in 1995, primarily as a result of lower factory utilization
rates at certain of the Company's manufacturing facilities reflecting the
Company's efforts to balance inventories with incoming orders.
 
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND LIQUIDITY
 
  LIQUIDITY. Cash and cash equivalents at March 31, 1997 totaled $18.7 million
compared to $19.4 million at December 31, 1996. During the three months ended
March 31, 1997, net cash from operating activities totaled $14.8 million, net
cash used by investing activities totaled $8.2 million, and net cash used by
financing activities totaled $7.3 million. For 1996, net cash from operating
activities totaled $115.4 million. Net cash used in investing activities
totaled $37.5 million. Net cash used in financing activities totaled $84.9
million, including the net repayment of $150.3 million of long-term debt, the
receipt of $81.3 million of net proceeds from the sale
 
                                      20
<PAGE>
 
of Common Stock pursuant to the 1996 Company Equity Sale, the receipt of $9.2
million from the exercise of warrants to purchase shares of Common Stock,
$20.0 million for the repurchase of warrants and $4.5 million in debt issuance
costs associated with the 1996 Refinancing.
 
  Working capital was $479.3 million at March 31, 1997, compared to $462.7
million at December 31, 1996. The current ratio was 4.1:1 at March 31, 1997,
compared to 4.2:1 at December 31, 1996.
   
  At March 31, 1997, long-term debt totaled $567.8 million compared to $572.6
million at December 31, 1996. Assuming the consummation of the Offerings, the
New Term Loan and the Company Repurchase at March 31, 1997, the Company's
long-term debt would have been $745.8 million. As a result of the Company
Repurchase, the Company will have negative tangible net worth.     
 
  FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS. On September 6, 1996, the Company completed a
refinancing involving execution of the Secured Credit Agreement and
modifications incorporated in the Receivables Securitization Facility. The
Secured Credit Agreement replaced a secured credit agreement that had been
entered into in connection with the acquisition of Thomasville.
 
  The Secured Credit Agreement is a $475.0 million reducing revolving credit
facility. The interest rate on borrowings is based on selected credit ratios
set forth in the Secured Credit Agreement and as of March 31, 1997 was 6.4%.
The Secured Credit Agreement allows for both the issuance of letters of credit
and cash borrowings. Letters of credit are limited to no more than $60.0
million. Cash borrowings are limited to the facility's maximum availability
less letters of credit outstanding. At March 31, 1997, the Company had $345.0
million of cash borrowings drawn under the Secured Credit Agreement and $26.5
million in letters of credit outstanding, leaving an excess availability of
approximately $103.5 million. The Secured Credit Agreement contains customary
covenants, including financial covenants with respect to the Company's
leverage and interest coverage. The leverage coverage (a ratio of net debt to
cash flows) and interest coverage (a ratio of cash flows to interest expense)
covenants are the most restrictive covenants contained in the Secured Credit
Agreement. The leverage covenant requires that the Company's consolidated debt
to consolidated cash flow (as such terms are defined in the Secured Credit
Agreement) must not exceed 4.25:1 (4.00:1 beginning on September 30, 1998).
The interest coverage covenant requires that the Company's consolidated cash
flow to consolidated interest expense (as such terms are defined in the
Secured Credit Agreement) exceed or equal 3.00:1 (3.25:1 from September 30,
1997 through June 30, 1998 and 3.50:1 beginning on September 30, 1998) for any
period of four consecutive fiscal quarters. As of March 31, 1997, the leverage
and interest coverage ratios were 2.90:1 and 5.12:1, respectively. The Company
is currently and expects to continue to be in compliance with all restrictive
covenants in the Secured Credit Agreement.
 
  The Receivables Securitization Facility is a $225.0 million facility
pursuant to which the Company sells interests in the trade receivables of its
operating companies to a third party financial institution. The Company
accounts for the Receivables Securitization Facility as long-term debt. The
Company's cost of borrowing is based on a commercial paper index rate plus a
program fee and at March 31, 1997 the Company had approximately $13.4 million
of excess availability under the Receivables Securitization Facility.
 
  In February 1996, in order to reduce the impact of changes in interest rates
on its floating rate long-term debt, the Company entered into three-year
interest rate swap agreements having a total notional amount of $300 million.
The swap agreements effectively convert a portion of the Company's floating
rate long-term debt to a fixed rate. The Company pays the counterparties a
fixed rate of 5.14% per annum and receives payments based upon the floating
three month London interbank offered rate (LIBOR).
 
  The Company believes that the Secured Credit Agreement, as proposed to be
amended to add the New Term Loan, and the Receivables Securitization Facility,
together with cash generated from operations, will be adequate to meet
liquidity requirements for the foreseeable future.
 
  CAPITAL EXPENDITURES. The Company maintains a significant capital
expenditure program focusing on increasing manufacturing efficiency and
expanding capacity as required. The Company's total capital
 
                                      21
<PAGE>
 
expenditures were $40.3 million, $35.6 million and $21.1 million for the years
ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively. The annual figures for
1995 and 1994 do not include the capital expenditures of Thomasville ($15.2
million and $14.1 million for the years ended December 31, 1995 and 1994,
respectively). The Company estimates that total capital expenditures will be
approximately $40.0 million in 1997. Significant new projects during the past
three years included a new upholstery manufacturing facility at Action
Industries to meet the increased demand for the Company's recliners, motion
furniture and sleep sofas and a state-of-the-art flat line finishing system at
Lane. The capital expenditures for 1995 include $18.2 million to construct a
new state-of-the-art particleboard manufacturing facility at Broyhill, which
was funded by proceeds from an insurance settlement, to replace the Company's
facility that was destroyed by fire in November 1994. The Company believes
that as a result of the availability of excess capacity in the Lane and
Thomasville manufacturing facilities, the Company will be able to pursue its
growth strategy over the next several years without the necessity of making
significant additional capital expenditures to expand capacity.
 
                                      22
<PAGE>
 
                                   BUSINESS
 
GENERAL
 
  The Company believes that it is the largest manufacturer of residential
furniture in the United States based on domestic revenues (excluding estimated
revenues of competitors from fabrics and decorative accessories). The Company
markets its products under three of the best known brand names in the
industry--Broyhill, Lane and Thomasville. The Company is a quality and style
leader across a broad spectrum of price categories from "premium" priced home
furnishings to lower priced RTA furniture. The Company distributes its
products through a diverse network of national, regional and local retailers,
including one of the largest systems of independently-owned dedicated retail
outlets in the residential furniture industry. Management believes that the
acquisition of Thomasville in December 1995 has significantly enhanced the
Company's competitive strengths and positions the Company to increase its
market share, sales and earnings. For the twelve months ended March 31, 1997,
the Company had net sales of $1.7 billion, EBITDA of $190.3 million, net
income before extraordinary items of $60.4 million and earnings per share of
$0.94.
 
  The Company is organized into three primary operating subsidiaries of
similar size which target particular product and price categories as described
below:
 
  BROYHILL. Broyhill is a leader in the "good" and "better" price categories,
which are two of the largest segments of the residential furniture market.
Management believes Broyhill is the largest full line manufacturer of
residential furniture under one brand name, and Broyhill has been rated the
number one brand in the industry in terms of brand awareness by several recent
consumer surveys. The Company believes that the Broyhill Fontana collection
has been the best selling furniture collection in the industry for the last
three years, although there are no published industry figures available.
Broyhill distributes its products through an extensive distribution network of
more than 6,200 independently-owned retail locations, including 345 dedicated
Broyhill Showcase Galleries and 415 dedicated Broyhill Furniture Centers.
 
  LANE. Lane manufactures specialty products for niche markets in the
"better," "best" and "premium" price categories. The Company believes that
Lane is the largest domestic manufacturer of cedar chests, although there are
no published industry figures available. In addition, Lane, through Action
Industries, its largest operating unit, is one of the leading manufacturers of
motion furniture and recliners in the United States. Lane is one of the most
widely recognized brands in the residential furniture industry and has
established a reputation for innovative marketing and quality designs. Lane
distributes its products through an extensive distribution network of more
than 16,000 independently-owned retail locations, including 294 dedicated
furniture galleries.
 
  THOMASVILLE. Thomasville manufactures furniture which embodies the widely
recognized "Thomasville Look" for both the "best" and "premium" price
categories. Thomasville has been rated the "highest quality" brand by several
recent consumer surveys. Management believes that the Collector's Cherry and
the Mahogany Collection have consistently been among the best selling
collections in the industry. Thomasville distributes its products through
approximately 635 independently-owned retail locations, including 239
dedicated Thomasville Galleries and 82 free-standing Thomasville Home
Furnishings stores, which exclusively feature Thomasville furniture. The
Company also produces a separate line of lower priced RTA and promotional
furniture.
 
COMPETITIVE STRENGTHS
 
  In addition to its substantial size relative to most of its competitors, the
Company believes that its focus on the following elements has contributed to
its leading position in the residential furniture industry:
 
  BRAND NAME STRENGTH. According to a recent consumer survey conducted by
Intersearch Corporation and commissioned by Thomasville, Broyhill, Lane and
Thomasville are three of the six best known brand names in the retail
furniture industry. According to this survey, Broyhill was rated the number
one brand in the industry in terms of overall consumer awareness, and
Thomasville was rated the number two brand in the industry in terms of
consumer awareness among purchase intenders, second only to Broyhill.
 
                                      23
<PAGE>
 
  BROAD RANGE OF PRODUCT OFFERINGS. The Company offers consumers a wide range
of products from the "premium" to "RTA" price categories across virtually all
residential furniture segments including: bedroom, dining room, living room,
stationary and motion/reclining upholstery, occasional table, home
entertainment/home office and rattan/wicker. The acquisition of Thomasville
has strengthened the Company's position across the "premium" and "best" price
categories of the market.
 
  DEDICATED DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS. The Company distributes its products
through a diverse network of independently-owned retail locations which
includes 878 galleries dedicated to Broyhill, Lane and Thomasville products,
415 Broyhill Furniture Centers, and 82 free-standing Thomasville Home
Furnishings stores. The gallery concept displays products in complete room
ensembles, which include furnishings, wall decor, window treatments, floor
coverings, accents and accessories. According to Furniture/Today, the median
sales per square foot of galleries exceeds that of non-galleries by 27%. The
Broyhill Furniture Centers are participants in a fully-accessorized product
display program developed for smaller dealers, which enables retailers to
commit less area to Broyhill products than a gallery. The Thomasville Home
Furnishings stores are dedicated solely to the display, promotion and sale of
Thomasville products. See "Distribution."
 
  INNOVATIVE, HIGH QUALITY PRODUCTS. The Company focuses on designing
innovative and stylish furniture, by regularly introducing new and updated
collections and designs. For example, management believes that the Broyhill
Fontana collection has been the best selling furniture collection, and the
Thomasville Collector's Cherry collection has been the best selling dining
room collection in the industry for the last three years. In addition, Lane
has teamed up with innovative, widely recognized designers such as Mark
Hampton to design and market furniture collections. Each of these companies
strives to differentiate its products with design elements that include
special detailing, innovative finishes and unique hardware. Lane's Action
Industries subsidiary has developed new technologies that have enhanced its
position in the growing motion furniture segment, such as an innovative deck
mechanism for sleeper sofas.
 
  MANUFACTURING EXPERTISE. Management believes that the Company is a leader in
automated furniture manufacturing, although there are no published industry
figures available. Modern state-of-the-art technology and economies of scale
have made the Company a very efficient producer. The Company consistently
modernizes its manufacturing facilities through capital investment. For
example, Lane recently completed a state-of-the-art flat line finishing plant
for more efficient production of high sheen and enhanced grain finishes and
has invested in additional advanced-technology manufacturing equipment to
increase productivity. In addition, Broyhill recently began full production in
a state-of-the-art particle board manufacturing facility which will provide
substrate for many new products. Broyhill also recently opened a new
upholstery manufacturing facility in order to keep up with consumer demand for
stylish, affordable upholstery.
 
  EXPERIENCED MANAGEMENT TEAMS. The Company believes that an experienced,
dedicated management team is a critical factor in achieving success. Effective
on October 1, 1996, Mr. Holliman became President and Chief Executive Officer
of the Company. Mr. Holliman was previously the President and Chief Executive
Officer of Action Industries, a subsidiary of the Company, which he founded
over 25 years ago. Since the founding of Action Industries, Mr. Holliman has
built this start-up company into an industry leader, with compound sales and
earnings growth of approximately 20% a year and total sales that approach $400
million annually. In addition, Action Industries has consistently been one of
the most profitable operating units of the Company. The management teams for
each of the operating subsidiaries of the Company also have extensive
experience in the furniture industry. The Chief Executive Officers of
Broyhill, Lane and Thomasville have an average of more than 28 years of
experience with their respective companies.
 
GROWTH STRATEGY
 
  The Company seeks to grow in both sales and profits and increase its market
share by executing the following strategies:
 
                                      24
<PAGE>
 
  ENHANCING BRAND NAME STRENGTH. Brand name recognition is a critical factor
in consumer purchases of furniture. The Company believes that consumer
recognition of its brand names is a key to increasing its market share. The
Company has three of the six most recognized brand names in the residential
furniture industry-- Broyhill, Lane and Thomasville. The Company is committed
to continue to strengthen its brand names through advertising in various media
including network and cable television and highly read consumer magazines such
as People, Reader's Digest, Sports Illustrated, Architectural Digest, Good
Housekeeping and Better Homes and Gardens among many others, in addition to
its dealer cooperative advertising program.
 
  EXPANDING DEDICATED DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS. The Company has generated
increased sales volume and has strengthened its alliances with key retailers
by distributing its products through independently-owned dedicated retail
outlets, such as galleries, which tend to have higher sales per square foot
and faster inventory turns than non-gallery locations. The Company continues
to expand these distribution channels by attracting additional retailers in
new and existing geographic markets to participate in the Company's gallery
programs. Since the beginning of 1996, the number of dedicated galleries,
furniture centers and stores has increased from 1,265 to 1,375. Furthermore,
the Company intends to expand its current network of 82 free-standing
Thomasville Home Furnishings stores by approximately 25 by the end of 1997.
 
  INCREASING SALES TO NATIONAL AND LARGE REGIONAL RETAILERS. The Company is
well positioned to benefit from the increasing presence of national and large
regional retailers in the residential furniture industry. According to
Furniture/Today, in 1995 the top 10 furniture retailers represented 16% of
total sales versus 10% in 1985. The Company's overall size, breadth of
product, strength of brands and national scope of distribution enable it to
service national retailers, such as J.C. Penney, Sears, Levitz and Heilig-
Meyers, and key regional companies, such as Breuner's, Haverty's and Roberds,
more effectively than the Company's smaller competitors. For example, during
1997 the Company has increased the number of products it offers to J.C. Penney
and is currently in discussion with other major retailers for additional
increases in square footage dedicated to the Company's broad range of
products. Furthermore, the Company's unique competitive position enabled it to
establish an innovative alliance with Carl's Furniture, an independent
retailer based in Florida which has opened a new location dedicated to the
Company's products. The Company intends to pursue similar alliances with other
retailers.
 
  PENETRATING NEW MARKETS. The Company is actively pursuing sales
opportunities in new markets where it seeks to enhance distribution. In the
United States, management is targeting key furniture retailers in important
geographic territories, particularly portions of the West Coast and New
England. In addition, the Company believes there is substantial opportunity
for growth in the international export market, particularly Canada, Europe,
Japan and the Middle East. Management has implemented a more aggressive
international strategy across all of its operating companies to improve the
sales, marketing and distribution of its products outside the United States.
For the three months ended March 31, 1997, international sales were $17.0
million, an increase of 17.3% versus the comparable period for the prior year.
 
  EMPHASIZING NEW AND GROWING PRODUCT AREAS. The Company emphasizes
development of new high margin products in growing product areas. For example,
the Company has become a leader in the fast growing motion furniture and
recliner segments. The Company has recently introduced two new recliners, an
oversized model for larger customers and a two-piece model with an ottoman
footrest, that it believes will allow it to further increase market share in
this segment. Furthermore, the Company continues to design innovative new
products in other areas, including the growing home office and home
entertainment center markets.
 
  MAXIMIZING OPERATING MARGINS. The Company is successfully implementing gross
profit improvement programs that management uses in its strategic and
operational planning to maximize gross profit margins and thereby provide the
Company with additional funds for purposes such as increased advertising and
product development. These programs include (a) introducing new high quality
products with above average profit margins, (b) marketing products to new
customers, (c) developing new markets, (d) implementing a well-defined pricing
strategy to maximize the effectiveness of price increases and decreases, (e)
focusing on cost control and
 
                                      25
<PAGE>
 
cost reduction programs that target a minimum savings of 3% of cost of goods
sold each year, (f) reviewing product and purchasing strategies, and (g)
implementing other management and personnel strategies. Management believes
that these programs have contributed to the Company achieving among the
highest EBITDA margins of publicly-owned U.S. residential furniture
manufacturing companies in recent years. For the quarter ended March 31, 1997,
the Company's EBITDA margin increased to 11.2%, as compared to 10.6% for the
prior year comparable period. Management believes opportunities exist to
increase further the EBITDA margins of its operating companies through
implementation of these programs. For example, the Company recently initiated
efforts to realign several manufacturing facilities at Thomasville and Lane to
increase capacity utilization and reduce overall production costs. Management
believes that these actions will result in annual savings of approximately
$3.5 million beginning in 1997.
 
  EXPANDING OPERATING COMPANY COORDINATION. The Company has historically
managed its operating units on a stand-alone basis. Increasingly since the
acquisition of Thomasville and the appointment of Mr. Holliman as President
and Chief Executive Officer, the Company has concentrated on enhancing the
coordination among its operating companies. As a result of this enhanced
coordination, the Company has begun to achieve operating efficiencies and
believes it has the opportunity to further improve operating efficiencies and
results. These opportunities include (i) cost savings generated through volume
purchasing; (ii) reductions in future capital expenditures through better
utilization of existing capacity; (iii) complementary sales and marketing
activities; (iv) joint international sourcing; and (v) shared operating
experience and expertise. The Company has taken actions to capitalize on these
opportunities by moving senior managers among operating companies to encourage
coordination and, in several instances, by shifting manufacturing from one
operating company to another to improve capacity utilization. In addition, by
combining the purchases of various raw materials (such as foam, cartons,
springs and fabric) and services of the operating companies, the Company has
been able to realize cost savings.
 
THE FURNITURE INDUSTRY
 
  The domestic residential furniture industry had approximately $20 billion in
shipments during 1996 according to the American Furniture Manufacturers
Association (the "AFMA"). According to Furniture/Today, the industry is
comprised of an estimated 600 manufacturers, of which the top 10 accounted for
approximately 38% of industry sales, representing an increase from 23% in
1985. The residential furniture market consists of three principal product
categories: wood, upholstery and metal. Of these categories, wood is the
largest, representing approximately half of total industry sales, while
upholstery represents approximately 40% of total industry sales and metal and
other products account for the balance.
 
  The domestic residential furniture manufacturing industry in which the
Company operates is affected by the residential furniture retail industry. The
retail furniture industry had approximately $37.5 billion in total revenues in
1995, according to Furniture/Today. The industry has experienced significant
consolidation in the past decade. For example, according to Furniture/Today,
the top 10 furniture retailers in 1995 represented a 16% market share, versus
10% in 1985. Additionally, over the past twelve months, this consolidation of
the retail furniture industry has continued, as evidenced by recently
announced or completed mergers and acquisitions.
 
  The access to diverse distribution channels has become increasingly
important over the past decade. Home centers, mass merchants, national chains
and specialty stores have emerged as increasingly important distribution
channels for residential furniture manufacturers. Management believes that
these retailers require suppliers that offer broad product lines combined with
substantial marketing and advertising resources. In addition, the direct
display of products to the consumer has become more important to residential
furniture manufacturers. As a result, the "gallery" concept and other
dedicated distribution outlets have become increasingly important to
manufacturers because they have provided them with dedicated retail space and
have historically generated greater sales per square foot than other
distribution outlets. Galleries are large display areas within independently-
owned retail furniture locations which are committed to the products of a
single manufacturer. A gallery generally takes up a significant portion of a
retailer's floor space and has complete room settings and fully accessorized
displays that help customers visualize their room. In return for featuring a
manufacturer's
 
                                      26
<PAGE>
 
merchandise, the retailer receives layout designs, cooperative promotions and
other assistance from the manufacturer.
 
  The residential furniture industry is cyclical, fluctuating with the general
economy. Periods of decline, however, have been brief, with annual industry
shipments declining in only four of the past twenty-four years. The Company
believes furniture sales are influenced by a number of macroeconomic factors
including existing home sales, housing starts, consumer confidence, interest
rates and demographic trends. Management believes favorable fundamental home
building and demographic trends will continue to drive long-term growth in the
furniture industry with AFMA expecting shipments to increase 5.9% in 1997.
 
  Management believes that demographic trends will continue to drive long-term
growth in the furniture industry. In particular, as "baby boomers" (people
born between 1946 and 1964) mature to the 35-64 year age group over the next
decade, they will be reaching their highest earnings power. It is currently
estimated that the 35-64 year age group will increase by approximately 11
million persons by the year 2000. According to Furniture/Today, such age group
includes the largest consumers of residential furniture. Furthermore,
statistics show that the average size of new homes has increased in recent
years, which generally results in increased purchases of furniture per home.
The Company believes that it is well positioned to capitalize on these
demographic trends as a result of its broad range of product offerings and
widely-recognized brand names.
 
PRODUCTS
 
  The Company manufactures and distributes (i) case goods, consisting of
bedroom, dining room and living room furniture, (ii) occasional furniture,
consisting of wood tables and accent items and free standing home
entertainment centers and home office items, (iii) stationary upholstered
products, consisting of sofas, loveseats, sectionals, chairs and (iv)
recliners, motion furniture and sleep sofas. The Company's product strategy,
which is enhanced by the acquisition of Thomasville, is to be the quality and
style leader across a broad spectrum of price categories in the residential
furniture industry from "premium" to "RTA" home furnishings. The Company
believes that its products are well-positioned in terms of selection, quality
and value within each of the major style categories in home furnishings
including American Traditional/Country, 18th Century, European Traditional,
Casual Contemporary and Oriental. The Company's positioning by price and
product category are shown below.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
  PRICING CATEGORY      CASE GOODS     OCCASIONAL  STATIONARY UPHOLSTERY MOTION/RECLINER
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  <S>                <C>               <C>         <C>                   <C>
  Premium            Thomasville       Thomasville      Thomasville
                     Lane                               Lane
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Best               Thomasville       Thomasville      Thomasville        Thomasville
                     Lane              Lane             Lane               Lane
                                                        Broyhill
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Better             Lane              Lane             Lane               Lane
                     Broyhill          Broyhill         Broyhill           Broyhill
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Good               Broyhill          Broyhill         Broyhill
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Promotional        Founders
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  RTA                CreativeInteriors
</TABLE>
 
 
 BROYHILL FURNITURE INDUSTRIES
 
  Broyhill produces collections of medium price bedroom, dining room,
upholstered and occasional furniture aimed at middle-income consumers.
Broyhill's wood furniture offerings consist primarily of bedroom, dining room
and living room furniture, occasional tables, accent items, free-standing home
entertainment centers and home office products. Upholstered products include
sofas, sleep sofas, loveseats, sectionals, chairs and fully-
 
                                      27
<PAGE>
 
reclining upholstery, all offered in a variety of fabrics and/or leathers.
Broyhill's residential furniture divisions produce a wide range of furnishings
in colonial, country, traditional and contemporary styles.
 
  The widely recognized Broyhill trademarks include Broyhill, Broyhill Premier
and Highland House. The flagship Broyhill product line concentrates on
bedroom, dining room, upholstered and occasional furniture designed for the
"good" and "better" price categories. The Broyhill Premier product line enjoys
an excellent reputation for classically styled, complete furniture collections
in the "better" price category. Highland House also manufactures upholstered
products in the "better" and "best" price category. In addition, management
believes that the Broyhill Fontana collection has been the best selling
furniture collection for the past three years, although there are no published
industry figures available.
 
 THE LANE COMPANY
 
  Lane manufactures and markets a broad range of high quality furniture
targeting the "better," "best" and "premium" price categories. Lane targets
niche markets with its seven operating divisions, which participate in such
segments of the residential furniture market as 19th century reproductions,
motion furniture, wicker and rattan, cedar chests and finely tailored
upholstered furniture. Using its recently installed, state-of-the-art
finishing system, Lane produces quality high sheen and enhanced grain
finishes.
 
  The Company believes that the Lane Division of Lane is the leading
manufacturer of cedar chests in the United States, although there are no
published industry figures available. It also manufactures and sells
occasional living room tables, bedroom and dining room furniture, wall
systems, desks, console tables and mirrors and other occasional wood pieces.
The Lane Division has teamed up with widely recognized designers such as
Raymond Waite, Mark Hampton, Blake Tovin and Sandra Nunnerley. Lane has
introduced two new collections, a new Mark Hampton Collection and the Hearst
Castle Collection. The Lane Division furniture is sold in the "better" and
"best" price categories.
 
  Action Industries, a subsidiary of Lane, manufactures and markets reclining
chairs and motion furniture in the "good," "better" and "best" price
categories under the Action by Lane brand name. Motion furniture consists of
sofas and loveseats with recliner-style moving parts and comfort features,
wall saver recliners, pad-over chaise recliners, high-leg recliners, sleep
sofas and motion sectionals. Lane's Royal Development Company designs and
manufactures the mechanisms used in Action Industries' reclining furniture
products.
 
  The Hickory Chair division manufactures and markets traditional styles of
upholstered furniture, dining room chairs and occasional tables in the "best"
and "premium" price categories. The Hickory Chair division has been crafting
fine reproductions of 18th century furniture for over 80 years. For example,
Hickory Chair offers the James River collection, which features reproductions
of fine furnishings from Virginia plantations, and more recently the new Mount
Vernon collection, which features reproductions from George Washington's home.
 
  The Pearson division has been manufacturing and selling contemporary and
traditional styles of finely tailored upholstered furniture including sofas,
love seats, chairs and ottomans for over 50 years. Pearson manufactures the
Viceroy collection, which features fine furnishings from the award winning
designer Victoria Moreland. Pearson furniture sells in the "premium" price
category and is distributed to high end furniture stores and interior
designers.
 
  The Lane Upholstery division includes two product lines, one of which is
composed of contemporary and modern upholstered furniture and metal and glass
occasional and dining tables, and the other of which is composed of
traditional and contemporary upholstered furniture, primarily sofas, love
seats, chairs and ottomans.
 
  The Venture Furniture division manufactures and markets moderately priced
wicker, rattan and bamboo upholstered furniture, tables, occasional wood
pieces and other home furnishings accessories. The division manufactures a
line of outdoor and patio furniture featuring fast drying upholstered cushions
under the name WeatherMaster, which has developed significant consumer
acceptance.
 
  Hickory Business Furniture manufactures and sells a line of office
furniture, including chairs, tables, conference tables, desks and credenzas,
in the upper-medium price range.
 
                                      28
<PAGE>
 
 THOMASVILLE FURNITURE INDUSTRIES
 
  Thomasville manufactures and markets wood furniture, upholstered products
and RTA/promotional furniture. Thomasville markets its products primarily
under the Thomasville brand name. Management believes Thomasville products
contain special design elements which embody the famous "Thomasville Look." In
wood furniture, these elements include special details, high sheen finishes,
original design hardware, hand selected veneers and fancy face veneer patterns
and decorative carvings that are made possible by the unique manufacturing
techniques that have been developed by Thomasville and the skills of its
experienced employees. In upholstery, these elements include a wide range of
frames, fabrics and leathers combined with fringes, cords, pillows, exposed
frame finishes and seating options.
 
  Management believes that Thomasville's wood products are well positioned in
terms of selection, quality and value within each of the major style
categories in home furnishings. In 1997, Thomasville has introduced a major
new collection called River Roads, which will begin shipment in 1997.
Additionally, Collector's Cherry and the Mahogany Collection have consistently
been among the most successful collections in the industry.
 
  Thomasville offers an assortment of upholstery under one brand name that
targets the "best" and "premium" price categories. Upholstery is primarily
marketed in three major styles: Traditional, American Traditional/Country and
Casual Contemporary. Upholstery style is determined by both frame style and
fabric or leather selection. Thomasville's frame assortment allows the
consumer to select from over 90 different styles within the general style
categories, and as much as 45% of the Thomasville fabric offering changes in a
12 month period, insuring that the latest styles are available.
 
  Thomasville's RTA/Promotional division offers assembled bedroom sets,
bookcases and home entertainment centers as well as RTA furniture consisting
of home entertainment centers, audio cabinets, television/VCR carts, room
dividers, bookcases, bedroom and kitchen/utility furniture, microwave carts,
computer desks and storage armoires. These lines are produced in highly
automated facilities. Thomasville's RTA/Promotional division markets products
under the CreativeInteriors and Founders brand names (previously having used
Armstrong) to a variety of retailers for sale to consumer end-users and
certain contract customers.
 
DISTRIBUTION
 
  The Company's strategy of targeting diverse distribution channels such as
furniture centers, independent dealers, national and local chain stores,
department stores, specialty stores and decorator showrooms is supported by
dedicated sales forces covering each of these distribution channels. The
Company is also exploring opportunities to expand international sales and to
distribute through non-traditional channels such as electronic retailers,
wholesale clubs, catalog retailers and television home shopping.
 
  The Company's breadth of product and national scope of distribution enable
it to service effectively national retailers such as J.C. Penney, Sears,
Levitz and Heilig-Meyers and key regional retailers such as Breuner's,
Haverty's and Roberds. These large retailers are commanding an increasing
presence in the consolidating furniture retailing industry and management
believes that the Company, by virtue of its size, is better positioned than
its competitors to meet their needs. Additionally, the consolidation of the
retail furniture industry has made access to distribution channels an
important competitive advantage for manufacturers. The Company has developed
dedicated distribution channels by expanding its gallery program and the
network of independently-owned dedicated retail locations, such as Thomasville
Home Furnishings stores. The Company distributes its products through a
diverse network of independently-owned retail locations, which includes 82
free-standing stores, 878 galleries and 415 furniture centers. Since the
beginning of 1996, the number of dedicated galleries, furniture centers and
stores has increased from 1,265 to 1,375. Furthermore, the Company intends to
expand its current network of 82 free-standing Thomasville Home Furnishings
stores by approximately 25 by the end of 1997.
 
  Broyhill, Lane and Thomasville have all developed gallery programs with
dedicated dealers displaying furniture in complete room ensembles. These
retailers employ a consistent showcase gallery concept wherein products are
displayed in complete and fully accessorized room settings instead of as
individual pieces. This presentation format encourages consumers to purchase
an entire room of furniture instead of individual pieces from different
manufacturers. As a result, galleries tend to have higher sales per square
foot as well as faster
 
                                      29
<PAGE>
 
inventory turns than non-gallery locations. According to Furniture/Today, the
median sales per square foot of galleries exceeds that of non-galleries by
27%. The Company recognizes the importance of the gallery network to its long-
term success, and has developed and maintains close relationships with its
dealers. The Company offers substantial services to retailers to support their
marketing efforts, including coordinated national advertising, merchandising
and display programs and extensive dealer training.
 
  The Thomasville Home Furnishings stores are free-standing retail locations
that exclusively feature Thomasville furniture. The Company believes
distributing its products through dedicated free-standing stores strengthens
brand awareness, provides well-informed and focused sales personnel and
encourages the purchase of multiple items per visit. Management is currently
evaluating similar opportunities to market Lane and Broyhill products.
 
  Showrooms for the national furniture market are located in High Point, North
Carolina and for regional markets in Dallas, Texas, Atlanta, Georgia, Chicago,
Illinois, and San Francisco, California.
 
 BROYHILL FURNITURE INDUSTRIES
 
  One of Broyhill's principal distribution channels is the Broyhill Showcase
Gallery Program. This program, developed over the past twelve years, involves
more than 334 participating dealer locations in the United States and eleven
galleries in foreign countries. Each dealer in the Broyhill Showcase Gallery
Program owns the gallery and the Broyhill furniture inventory. The program
incorporates a core merchandise program, advertising material support, in-
store merchandising events and educational opportunities for the retail store
sales and management personnel. The average Broyhill Showcase Gallery consists
of 7,500 square feet of display space within a 30,000 square foot store.
Furniture is displayed in complete and fully accessorized room settings
instead of as individual pieces.
 
  For the retailer that is currently not a participant in the gallery program,
Broyhill offers the Independent Dealer Program. This concept, initiated in
1987, is designed to strengthen Broyhill's relationship with these retailers
by assisting them in overcoming some of the significant difficulties in
running an independent furniture business. Participating retailers in the
Independent Dealer Program commit to a minimum pre-selected lineup of Broyhill
merchandise and, in return, receive a detailed, step-by-step, year-round
advertising and merchandising plan. The program includes three major sales
events per year, monthly promotional themes and professionally prepared
advertising and promotional materials at nominal cost in order to help
increase consumer recognition on the local level. As part of the Independent
Dealer Program, Broyhill offers the Broyhill Furniture Center Program for
retailers that have committed at least 2,500 square feet exclusively to
Broyhill products arranged in fully-accessorized room settings. The Company
seeks to develop relationships with these Broyhill Furniture Center retailers,
which may eventually become participants in the Broyhill Showcase Gallery
Program. This program includes all of the benefits of the Independent Dealer
Program, plus additional marketing, designing and advertising assistance.
 
 THE LANE COMPANY
 
  Lane distributes its products nationally through a well established network
of more than 16,000 retail locations. A diverse distribution network is
utilized in keeping with Lane's strategy of supplying customers with highly
specialized products in selected niche markets. This distribution network
primarily consists of independent furniture stores, regional chains such as
Haverty's and Art Van, and department store companies such as J.C. Penney,
Sears, May Department Stores, Federated Department Stores and Dillard
Department Stores. Lane has established specialty galleries with 294
participating dealers. This includes 213 Comfort Showcase Galleries
established by Action Industries since October 1995 in connection with a newly
created gallery program. Action Industries anticipates that it will continue
to expand significantly its Comfort Showcase Gallery program. The Action
Industries' galleries average approximately 4,200 square feet of retail space
specifically dedicated to the display, promotion and sale of Action
Industries' products. Lane's other gallery programs call for the display of
Lane wood and upholstered furniture in settings that range from less than
3,000 to approximately 5,000 square feet.
 
                                      30
<PAGE>
 
 THOMASVILLE FURNITURE INDUSTRIES
 
  Thomasville products are offered at approximately 635 independently-owned
retail locations, including 239 Thomasville Galleries, 82 Thomasville Home
Furnishings stores and approximately 310 authorized Thomasville dealers. The
foregoing figures reflect a review and reclassification by Thomasville of its
distribution network that became effective on July 1, 1996. The Thomasville
Gallery concept was initiated in 1983. Thomasville Galleries have an average
7,500 square feet of retail space specifically dedicated to the display,
promotion and sale of Thomasville products. Management believes that the
gallery concept results in increased sales of Thomasville products by
encouraging the consumer to purchase a complete collection as opposed to
individual pieces from different manufacturers. The first Thomasville Home
Furnishings store opened in 1988. The typical Thomasville Home Furnishings
store is a 15,000 square foot independently-owned store offering a broad range
of Thomasville products, presented in a home-like setting by specially trained
salespersons. Thomasville's management believes that the gallery and dedicated
store programs have helped create one of the most efficient distribution
systems in the industry.
 
  Thomasville's RTA/Promotional division sells promotional and RTA furniture
to a variety of retailers for sale to consumer end-users and certain contract
customers. Promotional furniture is sold to retail chains such as Wal-Mart and
Levitz, as well as independent furniture stores. Promotional furniture is also
sold in the hospitality and health care markets of Thomasville's contract
business. RTA customers include national chains such as Wal-Mart and Ames,
catalog showrooms, discount mass merchandisers, warehouse clubs and home
furnishings retailers.
 
MARKETING AND ADVERTISING
 
  The Company continues to strengthen its valuable brand names through ongoing
investment in innovative consumer advertising. The Company is one of the
largest advertisers in the residential furniture industry. Advertising is used
to increase consumer awareness of its brand names and is targeted to specific
customer segments through leading shelter magazines and popular magazines such
as Sports Illustrated, People, Reader's Digest, Good Housekeeping and Better
Homes and Gardens. Each operating company uses focused advertising in major
markets to create buying urgency around specific sale and location
information, enabling retailers to be listed jointly in advertisements for
maximum advertising efficiency and shared costs. The Company seeks to increase
consumer buying and strengthen relationships with retailers through
cooperative advertising and selective promotional programs. The Company
focuses its marketing efforts on prime potential customers utilizing
information from databases and from callers to each operating company's toll-
free telephone number. Each of the operating companies also advertises
selectively on television in conjunction with dealers, and Action Industries
and Thomasville also use television advertising independently.
 
 BROYHILL FURNITURE INDUSTRIES
 
  Broyhill's advertising programs focus on translating its strong consumer
awareness into increased sales. According to the recent consumer survey
conducted for the Company by America's Research Group, Broyhill was rated the
number one brand in the industry in terms of brand awareness. In addition, a
survey of readers by Better Homes and Gardens found that 92.5% of people
recognized the name in an aided name recognition test, and a recent survey
conducted by Intersearch Corporation for Thomasville found that when consumers
were asked to name a furniture brand, Broyhill had the highest unaided name
recognition of any residential furniture manufacturer (36.1% of the people in
the survey named Broyhill as a furniture brand). In aided name recognition
tests, consumers are given a list of furniture brand names and are asked to
identify the names listed which they recognize. In an unaided name recognition
test, consumers are not provided with a list of names from which to choose and
are asked to name brands with which they are familiar.
 
  Broyhill's current marketing strategy features a national print advertising
program in addition to traditional promotional programs such as furniture
"giveaways" on television game shows and dealer-based promotions such as
product mailings and brochures. The national print advertising program, which
consists of multi-page lay/outs, is designed to appeal to the consumer's
desire for decorating assistance and increased confidence in making the
decision to purchase a big ticket product such as furniture. These
advertisements are run in
 
                                      31
<PAGE>
 
publications such as Good Housekeeping, Better Homes and Gardens, Country
Living and HOME magazine, which appeal to Broyhill's customer base. Game show
promotions, a long-standing Broyhill tradition, include popular programs such
as Wheel of Fortune and The Price is Right. An extensive public relations
campaign also exposes Broyhill products in leading magazine and newspaper
editorial features. In addition, Broyhill began a regional television
advertising program in 1997.
 
 THE LANE COMPANY
 
  Management believes that Lane was the first residential furniture
manufacturer to institute a national advertising campaign, although the
Company is not aware of any records documenting this fact. Lane became a well-
known brand name through Lane's initial use in the 1920s of creative
advertising to promote its cedar chests. Since then, Lane has continued to use
advertising programs to generate consumer awareness of the Lane brand name.
Through Lane's in-house advertising agency, recent programs have been
developed for print campaigns in national publications such as Country Home,
Country Living, House Beautiful and Architectural Digest. Additionally, Action
Industries is engaged in national and regional television advertising.
 
  The Lane Keepsake program has made the Lane cedar chest one of the best-
known furniture products in the industry and contributes to the high level of
consumer recognition. The program enables the 1,100 participating dealers to
establish early personal contact with a large number of women who are about to
enter the bridal market as potential buyers of home furnishings. Information
regarding a graduation gift of a miniature Lane cedar chest, available at the
local participating furniture store, is sent to the parents of graduating high
school women. This Keepsake program is believed to be instrumental in building
consumer recognition and promoting the Lane brand name.
 
  Lane markets its products through the use of well-known designers and
affiliation with institutions. For example, Lane has teamed up with widely
recognized designers such as Raymond Waite, Mark Hampton, Blake Tovin and
Sandra Nunnerley.
 
  In 1996, Action Industries increased its advertising expenditures
significantly and emphasized the use of fully integrated advertising programs.
These campaigns are aimed at the promotion of selected products at coordinated
times through all the various advertising channels employed by Action
Industries, including shelter magazines, popular magazines and television.
 
 THOMASVILLE FURNITURE INDUSTRIES
 
  According to a recent consumer survey conducted by America's Research Group,
Thomasville is consistently rated the "highest quality" residential furniture
brand. Management seeks to enhance this brand identification through
advertising programs. Thomasville's current campaign, featured in household
magazines and periodic television commercials, emphasizes single dramatic,
high quality wood and upholstery pieces to support the emphasis on higher
quality. Thomasville invests in image advertising by placing advertisements in
up-front positions in national household magazines, such as Better Homes and
Gardens, Good Housekeeping and House Beautiful. Thomasville also utilizes
focused advertising in major markets to create buying urgency around specific
sale and location information, enabling retailers to be listed jointly in
advertisements for maximum advertising efficiency and shared costs.
 
  To reach additional customers, Thomasville uses promotional discounts and
dealer cooperative advertising support. Thomasville has two major retailer
promotions, the Winter and Summer Thomasville Sales, which coincide with
traditional industry sale periods and are supported by eight page color
circulars. Typically, three to four million 32- to 36-page "magalogs" are
mailed by retailers during these periods to draw customers to Thomasville
Galleries and Thomasville Home Furnishings stores.
 
MANUFACTURING
 
  Management believes that the Company is one of the world's most advanced
producers of furniture products and a leader in automated manufacturing,
although there are no published industry figures available. The Company has
sophisticated and computerized manufacturing facilities that are run by a
well-trained, non-union
 
                                      32
<PAGE>
 
work force. Management believes that the Company is one of the lowest cost
producers in the furniture industry. In addition to cost efficiency, the high
degree of automation results in substantial additional capacity, which can be
accessed by implementing selected departmental second and third shifts.
Management believes that the Company is well positioned to respond to an
increase in demand for furniture products. As a result of the availability of
some excess capacity in Lane and Thomasville manufacturing facilities,
management believes that it will be able to meet its manufacturing
requirements over the next several years without the necessity of making
significant additional capital expenditures to expand capacity.
 
  Broyhill operates 18 finished case goods and upholstery production and
warehouse facilities totaling over 5.0 million square feet of manufacturing
and warehouse space. All finished goods plants are located in North Carolina.
Broyhill pioneered the use of mass production techniques in the furniture
industry and continues to be a leader in this area by utilizing longer
production runs to achieve economies of scale. Short set-up times and long
production runs have allowed for a reduction of both manufacturing cost and
overhead over the last five years. In 1996, Broyhill began full production in
a new, state-of-the-art particleboard manufacturing facility that provides a
captive, cost-effective source of high quality particleboard, a primary
material used in the Company's products. In 1996, Broyhill added a new
upholstery manufacturing facility with approximately $25.0 million of annual
production capacity.
 
  Lane operates 15 finished case goods and upholstery production and warehouse
facilities in Virginia, North Carolina and Mississippi. Since the late 1980s,
significant capital expenditures have been made to acquire technologically
advanced manufacturing equipment which has increased factory productivity. In
1993, Lane's Action Industries subsidiary completed a new 396,000 square foot
plant, located in Mississippi, which manufactures motion furniture as well as
a new sleep sofa product line. This facility added approximately $100 million
of annual production capacity. Lane recently installed a state-of-the-art
flat-line finishing system that produces quality high sheen and enhanced grain
finishes.
 
  Thomasville manufactures or assembles its products at 15 finished case goods
and upholstery production and warehouse facilities located in North Carolina,
Virginia, Tennessee and Mississippi, close to sources of raw materials and
skilled craftsmen. Each plant is specialized, manufacturing limited product
categories, allowing longer, more efficient production runs and economies of
scale. During recent years, Thomasville has focused on reducing manufacturing
costs by closing less efficient plants, reducing labor costs and establishing
process improvement programs.
 
  The manufacturing process for Thomasville's RTA/promotional product line is
highly automated. Large fiberboard and particleboard sheets are machine-
finished in long production runs, then stored and held for assembly using
highly automated assembly lines. Completed goods are stored in an automated
warehouse to provide quicker delivery to customers. All plant operations use
automated manufacturing processes and inventory management systems. Ninety
percent of Thomasville's RTA/promotional products are shipped within 14 days
of production.
 
RAW MATERIALS AND SUPPLIERS
 
  The raw materials used by the Company in manufacturing its products are
lumber, veneers, plywood, fiberboard, particleboard, paper, hardware,
adhesives, finishing materials, glass, mirrored glass, fabrics, leathers and
upholstered filling material (such as synthetic fibers, foam padding and
polyurethane cushioning). The various types of wood used in the Company's
products include cherry, oak, maple, pine and pecan, which are purchased
domestically, and mahogany, which is purchased abroad. Fabrics, leathers and
other raw materials are purchased both domestically and abroad. Management
believes that its supply sources for those materials are adequate.
 
  The Company has no long-term supply contracts and has experienced no
significant problems in supplying its operations. Although the Company has
strategically selected suppliers of raw materials, the Company believes that
there are a number of other sources available, contributing to its ability to
obtain competitive pricing for raw materials. Raw materials prices fluctuate
over time depending upon factors such as supply, demand and weather. Increases
in prices may have a short-term impact on the Company's margins for its
products.
 
                                      33
<PAGE>
 
  The majority of supplies for RTA and promotional products is purchased
domestically, although paper and certain hardware is purchased abroad.
Management believes, however, that its proximity to and relationships with
suppliers are advantageous for the sourcing of such materials. In addition, by
combining the purchase of various raw materials (such as foam, cartons,
springs and fabric) and services, Lane and Broyhill have been able to realize
cost savings. Management believes that the Company's position as the largest
residential furniture manufacturer in the United States, based on domestic
revenues (excluding estimated revenues of competitors from fabrics and
decorative accessories), will create opportunities for additional cost
savings.
 
ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS
 
  The Company is subject to a wide-range of federal, state and local laws and
regulations relating to protection of the environment, worker health and
safety and the emission, discharge, storage, treatment and disposal of
hazardous materials. These laws include the Clean Air Act of 1970, as amended,
the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act and the Comprehensive Environmental, Response, Compensation and
Liability Act ("Superfund"). Certain of the Company's operations use glues and
coating materials that contain chemicals that are considered hazardous under
various environmental laws. Accordingly, management closely monitors the
Company's environmental performance at all of its facilities. Management
believes that the Company is in substantial compliance with all environmental
laws.
 
  Under the provisions of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 (the "CAA"), in
December 1995, the Environmental Protection Agency (the "EPA") promulgated air
emission standards for the wood furniture industry. These regulations, known
as National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants ("NESHAPs"),
govern the levels of emission of certain designated chemicals into the air and
will require that the Company reduce emissions of certain volatile organic
compounds ("VOCs") by November 1997. Management is investigating and
evaluating techniques to meet these standards at all facilities to which the
NESHAPs standards will apply. While the Company may be required to make
capital investments at some of its facilities to ensure compliance, the
Company believes that it will meet all applicable requirements in a timely
fashion and that the amount of money required to meet the NESHAPs requirements
will not materially affect its financial condition or its results of
operations.
 
  The Company has been identified as a potentially responsible party ("PRP")
at a number of Superfund sites. The Company believes that its liability with
respect to most of the sites is de minimis, and the Company is entitled to
indemnification by others with respect to liability at certain sites. The
Company also accrued a reserve for such environmental liabilities in
connection with the acquisition of Thomasville. Management believes that any
liability as a PRP with regard to the Superfund sites will not have a material
adverse effect on the financial condition or results of operations of the
Company.
 
COMPETITION
 
  The furniture manufacturing industry is highly competitive. The Company's
products compete with products made by a number of furniture manufacturers,
including Lifestyle Furnishings International, Ltd. (formerly the home
furnishings group of Masco Corporation), La-Z-Boy, Inc., Ladd Furniture, Inc.,
Bassett Furniture Industries, Inc., and Ethan Allen Interiors, as well as
approximately 600 smaller producers. The elements of competition include
pricing, styling, quality and marketing.
 
EMPLOYEES
 
  As of March 31, 1997, the Company employed approximately 20,900 people. None
of the Company's employees is represented by a union.
 
BACKLOG
 
  The combined backlog of the Company's operating companies as of March 31,
1997 aggregated approximately $177.9 million, compared to approximately $187.6
million as of March 31, 1996. The modest decline in backlog was due to the
strong shipping activity in the quarter ended March 31, 1997, as well as a
concerted effort to reduce lead times to improve customer service.
 
                                      34
<PAGE>
 
                                  MANAGEMENT
 
  The executive officers and directors of the Company are as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
          NAME           AGE               POSITION AND PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION
          ----           ---               ---------------------------------
<S>                      <C> <C>
Richard B. Loynd........  69 Chairman of the Board of the Company
Wilbert G. Holliman,      59 President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of the
 Jr.....................      Company
Brent B. Kincaid........  66 President and Chief Executive Officer of Broyhill
K. Scott Tyler, Jr......  57 President and Chief Executive Officer of Lane
John T. Foy.............  49 President and Chief Executive Officer of Action Industries
Frederick B. Starr......  63 President and Chief Executive Officer of Thomasville
David P. Howard.........  46 Vice-President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of the
                              Company
Lynn Chipperfield.......  45 Vice-President, General Counsel and Secretary of the Company
Steven W. Alstadt.......  43 Controller and Chief Accounting Officer of the Company
Leon D. Black...........  45 Director of the Company; Officer and director of Apollo
                              Capital Management, Inc. and Lion Capital Management, Inc.
Michael S. Gross........  35 Director of the Company; Officer of Apollo Capital
                              Management, Inc. and Lion Capital Management, Inc.
John J. Hannan..........  44 Director of the Company; Officer and director of Apollo
                              Capital Management, Inc. and Lion Capital Management, Inc.
Joshua J. Harris........  32 Director of the Company; Officer of Apollo Capital
                              Management, Inc. and Lion Capital Management, Inc.
Bruce A. Karsh..........  41 Director of the Company; President of Oaktree Capital
                              Management, LLC
John H. Kissick.........  55 Director of the Company; Officer of Lion Capital Management,
                              Inc. and advisor to Apollo Capital Management, Inc.
Donald E. Lasater.......  71 Director of the Company; Retired, formerly Chairman and Chief
                              Executive Officer of Mercantile Bancorporation, Inc.
Lee M. Liberman.........  75 Director of the Company; Retired, formerly Chairman and Chief
                              Executive Officer of Laclede Gas Company
Marc J. Rowan...........  34 Director of the Company; Officer of Apollo Capital
                              Management, Inc. and Lion Capital Management, Inc.
John J. Ryan III........  69 Director of the Company; Director of Artemis S.A. and
                              Financiere Pinault S.A.
Michael D. Weiner.......  44 Director of the Company; Officer of Apollo Capital
                              Management, Inc. and Lion Capital Management, Inc.
</TABLE>
 
  Apollo Capital Management, Inc. ("Apollo Capital") and Lion Capital
Management, Inc. ("Lion Capital") are affiliates of Apollo and Lion, which
together beneficially own approximately 37.6% of the outstanding Common Stock
of the Company. See "Selling Stockholders and Company Repurchase" below.
Apollo Capital and Lion Capital are the general partners of Apollo Advisors,
L.P. ("Apollo Advisors") and Lion, respectively. Apollo Advisors is the
managing general partner of Apollo, AIF II, L.P. and, together with an
affiliate, Apollo Investment Fund III, L.P., each a private securities
investment fund. Lion acts as financial advisor to and representative of
certain institutional investors with respect to securities investments. After
the Offerings and the Company Repurchase, Messrs. Black, Gross, Hannan,
Harris, Kissick, Rowan, Ryan and Weiner will resign from the Board of
Directors. Although no persons have been nominated to replace these directors,
the Board of Directors intends to appoint four directors to fill board
positions left vacant upon the resignation of the foregoing directors.
 
  MR. LOYND was the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company until
he was succeeded by Mr. Holliman on October 1, 1996. Mr. Loynd was originally
elected Vice-President and member of the Board of Directors of the Company in
1987. He was named President of the Company in March 1989 and became Chief
Executive Officer in November 1989 and Chairman of the Board in June 1990.
Previously, Mr. Loynd was Chairman of the Board of Converse Inc. from 1982 to
1989. He is a director of Emerson Electric Co., Converse Inc. and Florsheim
Group Inc.
 
                                      35
<PAGE>
 
  MR. HOLLIMAN became President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company on
October 1, 1996. Previously, Mr. Holliman was employed by Action Industries
for more than 25 years, having been one of the founders of that company in
1970. He was Executive Vice President of Action Industries until January 1989,
when he became President and Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Holliman
subsequently became President and Chief Executive Officer commencing in 1993.
 
  MR. KINCAID has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Broyhill
since 1992. Previously, Mr. Kincaid held several positions within Broyhill,
including Executive Vice President (1991 to 1992), Vice President--Operations
(1987 to 1991) and Vice President--Purchasing (1982 to 1987).
 
  MR. TYLER has served as Chief Executive Officer of Lane since 1991 and
President of Lane since 1989. From 1987 to 1989, Mr. Tyler served as President
of the Lane Division, and has been a Vice President of Lane since 1986.
 
  MR. FOY was named President and Chief Executive Officer of Action in 1996.
Mr. Foy was previously Executive Vice President for Sales and Marketing and
has been with Action for eleven years.
 
  MR. STARR was named President and Chief Executive Officer of Thomasville in
1982. From 1977 to 1982, Mr. Starr served as Senior Vice President and General
Sales Manager of Thomasville.
 
  MR. HOWARD joined the Company in July 1984 as Director of Internal Audit. He
was promoted to Controller in March 1990, elected Vice-President in April
1991, appointed Chief Financial Officer in July 1994 and elected Treasurer in
May 1996.
 
  MR. CHIPPERFIELD has served as General Counsel of the Company since January
1993, and as Vice-President and Secretary of the Company since January 1996.
From 1986 to 1993, Mr. Chipperfield served as Assistant General Counsel of the
Company.
 
  MR. ALSTADT joined the Company in June 1979 as a member of the Internal
Audit Department. He was named Manager, Financial Reporting and Analysis in
1990 and was elected Controller and appointed Chief Accounting Officer in
1994.
 
                             CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS
 
  The Company is party to a consulting agreement (the "Consulting Agreement")
with Apollo Advisors, L.P., an affiliate of the Selling Stockholders, pursuant
to which Apollo Advisors, L.P. provides corporate advisory, financial and
other consulting services to the Company. Fees under the Consulting Agreement
are payable at an annual rate of $500,000, plus out-of-pocket expenses. The
Consulting Agreement is for a term currently expiring on December 31, 1997 and
is automatically renewable for successive one-year terms unless terminated by
independent members of the Board of Directors. The Consulting Agreement will
terminate upon consummation of the Offerings. Apollo and Lion will continue to
have registration rights with respect to shares of Common Stock which will be
owned by them after the Offerings until such time as the shares can be sold
without restrictions. The Company is also a party to a Stock Purchase and
Secondary Offering Agreement with the Selling Stockholders (the "Stock
Purchase and Secondary Offering Agreement"). See "Selling Stockholders and
Company Repurchase."
 
                  SELLING STOCKHOLDERS AND COMPANY REPURCHASE
 
  This Prospectus relates to 11,000,000 shares of Common Stock which are being
offered by the Selling Stockholders. This Prospectus also relates to an
additional 1,100,000 shares of Common Stock which may be offered by the
Selling Stockholders solely to cover over-allotments. One-half of the shares
being offered hereby will be sold by Apollo and one-half will be sold by Lion.
 
  The Company has entered into the Stock Purchase and Secondary Offering
Agreement pursuant to which the Company has agreed to repurchase (i) an
aggregate of 10,842,299 shares of its Common Stock and (ii) warrants to
purchase 290,821 shares of Common Stock from the Selling Stockholders
concurrently with the consummation
 
                                      36
<PAGE>
 
   
of the Offerings. The purchase price for the 10,842,299 shares of Common Stock
will be $15.75 per share, and the purchase price for the warrants will be
$8.62 per warrant (representing $15.75 per share less the $7.13 per share
warrant exercise price). The Company intends to finance the Company Repurchase
through the New Term Loan. Upon consummation of the Offerings and the Company
Repurchase, assuming that the Underwriters exercise their over-allotment
option in full, the Selling Stockholders will not own any shares of the
Company. If, however, the Underwriters do not exercise all or a portion of
their over-allotment option, the Selling Stockholders will beneficially own up
to an aggregate of 1,100,000 shares of Common Stock after the Offerings. In
the event that the price per share of the Offerings is equal to or greater
than $15.50, the price per share in the Company Repurchase will be $15.50 and
the price per warrant will be $8.37. The consummation of each of (i) the
Offerings and (ii) the Company Repurchase is contingent upon the consummation
of the other and the closing of the New Term Loan. The Selling Stockholders
have the right to terminate the Company Repurchase under certain
circumstances, including if the anticipated purchase price of the Offerings is
unacceptable or if the closing of the Company Repurchase has not occurred by
August 30, 1997. Pursuant to the Stock Purchase and Secondary Offering
Agreement, neither the Selling Stockholders nor any of their affiliates may,
at any time prior to May 27, 1999, (i) directly or indirectly acquire or agree
to acquire ownership of the Company's securities, (ii) sell or otherwise
transfer any shares of the Company's Common Stock, (iii) solicit proxies to
vote, participate in any election contest or solicit the approval of any
stockholder proposal, (iv) join in a voting group regarding the Company's
securities, (v) deposit its Company securities in a voting trust or similar
arrangement or (vi) seek to influence or control the Company.     
 
  Pursuant to a Registration Rights Agreement dated August 3, 1992, the
Company has agreed to pay the expenses of the Offerings incurred by the
Company (other than underwriting discounts and commissions). The Selling
Stockholders and the Company have each agreed to indemnify the other against
certain liabilities which may arise from the Offerings.
 
                         DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK
 
  The authorized capital stock of the Company consists of 100,000,000 shares
of Common Stock, no par value, and 10,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock, no
par value. The Common Stock has a stated value of $1.00 per share.
 
  As of March 31, 1997 there were 61,467,066 shares of Common Stock
outstanding held of record by approximately 3,000 persons, 3,840,557 shares of
Common Stock reserved for issuance upon the exercise of outstanding stock
options having an average exercise price of $6.72 per share and 1,677,415
shares of Common Stock reserved for issuance upon the exercise of outstanding
warrants at an exercise price of $7.13 per share. All of the outstanding
shares of Common Stock, including the shares of Common Stock to be sold in the
Offerings by the Selling Stockholders, are fully paid and non-assessable. No
shares of Preferred Stock have been issued by the Company, and the Company has
no current plans to issue any Preferred Stock.
 
COMMON STOCK
 
  Holders of shares of the Company's Common Stock are entitled to one vote per
share on all matters to be voted upon by the stockholders and are not entitled
to cumulate votes for the election of directors. Subject to preferences that
may be applicable to any outstanding Preferred Stock, holders of shares of
Common Stock are entitled to receive ratably such dividends, if any, as may be
declared from time to time by the Board of Directors out of funds legally
available therefor. In the event of liquidation, dissolution or winding up of
the Company, the holders of shares of Common Stock are entitled to share
ratably in all assets remaining after payment of liabilities, subject to prior
distribution rights of Preferred Stock, if any, then outstanding. Shares of
Common Stock have no preemptive, conversion or other subscription rights and
there are no redemption or sinking fund provisions applicable to the Common
Stock.
 
                                      37
<PAGE>
 
PREFERRED STOCK
 
  The Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company provides that the
Company may issue up to 10,000,000 shares of Preferred Stock. The Board of
Directors has the authority to issue Preferred Stock in one or more series and
to fix the rights, preferences, privileges and restrictions, including the
dividend, conversion, voting, redemption (including sinking fund provisions),
and other rights, liquidation preferences, and the number of shares
constituting any series and the designations of such series, without any
further vote or action by the stockholders of the Company. Because the terms
of the Preferred Stock may be fixed by the Board of Directors of the Company
without stockholder action, the Preferred Stock could be issued quickly with
terms calculated to defeat a proposed takeover of the Company, or to make the
removal of management of the Company more difficult. Under certain
circumstances this could have the effect of decreasing the market price of the
Common Stock. Management of the Company is not aware of any such threatened
transaction to obtain control of the Company.
 
CERTAIN RESTATED CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION AND BY-LAW PROVISIONS
 
  TRANSACTIONS WITH SUBSTANTIAL STOCKHOLDERS. The Restated Certificate of
Incorporation of the Company contains provisions limiting the ability of any
person who is the beneficial owner of more than 10% of the outstanding voting
stock of the Company (a "Substantial Stockholder") to effect certain
transactions involving the Company unless approved by a majority of the
Disinterested Directors of the Company (as defined in the Restated Certificate
of Incorporation). If there are no Disinterested Directors, the transaction
must be approved by the holders of a majority of the shares voting on such
transaction of which the Substantial Stockholder is not a beneficial owner.
Approval will also be required by the holders of a majority of the shares
voting on such transaction not owned by the Substantial Stockholder, if the
transaction is required to be approved by stockholders under applicable law
(provided that such stockholder approval requirement will not be required if
the Substantial Stockholder is the record owner of at least 90% of the
outstanding Common Stock).
 
  Transactions covered by these provisions include (a) the merger or
consolidation of the Company with a Substantial Stockholder, (b) the sale,
exchange, mortgage, pledge, lease or transfer of assets to a Substantial
Stockholder, (c) the issuance or transfer by the Company of any securities or
other property to a Substantial Stockholder, (d) the reclassification of
securities of the Company or the recapitalization or merger of the Company
with any of its subsidiaries if the transaction would, directly or indirectly,
increase the proportionate share of any class of equity or convertible
securities of the Company or a subsidiary owned by a Substantial Stockholder,
or (e) any other transaction with a Substantial Stockholder, including without
limitation payment of compensation and management fees (but not including
customary directors' fees and expense reimbursements). Covered transactions
will not, however, include (1) bona fide loans by the Substantial Stockholder
not exceeding $10.0 million in any 12-month period, (2) participation by the
Substantial Stockholder in bona fide offerings of equity, convertible or
equity-related securities by the Company to the extent required to allow the
Substantial Stockholder to avoid dilution of its percentage interest in the
Common Stock, (3) repurchases of securities either pursuant to certain open
market transactions or on terms identical to those being offered to all other
holders of the same securities, (4) the preparation and filing of registration
statements with respect to securities received by any Substantial Stockholder
pursuant to the Plan of Reorganization and the payment of reasonable expenses
associated therewith, and (5) other immaterial transactions in the ordinary
course of business.
 
  REPURCHASE OF STOCK. The Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the
Company provides that, except under certain circumstances, the Company may not
repurchase its stock at a price greater than the Market Price (as defined in
the Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation) or for consideration
other than cash from a 5% or more stockholder who has held such shares for
less than two years, unless the repurchase is authorized by a majority of all
shares entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, excluding the
shares held by such stockholder.
 
  NO STOCKHOLDER ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT; SPECIAL MEETINGS. The Company's
Restated Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws provide that stockholder
action can be taken only at an annual or special meeting of
 
                                      38
<PAGE>
 
stockholders, and prohibit stockholder action by written consent in lieu of a
meeting. The Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation and By-Laws
provide that special meetings of stockholders can only by called (i) pursuant
to a resolution adopted by a majority of the entire Board of Directors or (ii)
upon the request of stockholders holding 20% or more the Company's voting
stock outstanding at that time. Any call for a special meeting of stockholders
must specify the matters to be acted upon at such a meeting and only those
specified matters may be acted upon at such special meeting.
 
  SUPERMAJORITY VOTE REQUIREMENTS. The Company's Restated Certificate of
Incorporation contains provisions requiring the affirmative vote of the
holders of at least a majority of all shares voting, excluding the shares
owned by a Substantial Stockholder, to approve an Affiliate Transaction (as
defined in the Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation) and requiring
the affirmative vote of the holders of at least a majority of all shares
entitled to vote generally in the election of directors, excluding the shares
owned by an Interested Stockholder (as defined in the Company's Restated
Certificate of Incorporation), to approve a Stock Repurchase (as defined in
the Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation) from an Interested
Stockholder.
 
  The Company's Restated Certificate of Incorporation contains provisions
requiring the affirmative vote of the holders of at least 75% of all shares
entitled to vote generally in the election of directors and, in addition, the
affirmative votes of the holders of at least 50% of the shares voting,
excluding the shares owned by a Substantial Stockholder, to alter, amend,
repeal or adopt provisions inconsistent with present provisions providing for
action by stockholders only during duly called annual or special meetings and
not by consent, the calling of special meeting of stockholders, defining the
phrase "Substantial Stockholder" and approving Affiliate Transactions.
 
TRANSFER AGENT AND REGISTRAR
 
  The Transfer Agent and Registrar for the Common Stock is The Bank of New
York.
 
            CERTAIN U.S. TAX CONSEQUENCES TO NON-U.S. STOCKHOLDERS
 
  The following is a general discussion of the material Federal income and
estate tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of a share of Common
Stock by beneficial owner of such shares that is not a U.S. person for U.S.
Federal income tax purposes (a "non-U.S. holder"). For purposes of this
discussion, a "U.S. person" means a citizen or resident of the United States,
a corporation or partnership created or organized in the United States or
under the laws of the United States or of any State or political subdivision
of the foregoing, or any estate or trust whose income is includible in gross
income for U.S. Federal income tax purposes regardless of its source. The
discussion does not address all aspects of Federal income and estate taxation
nor any aspects of state, local, or foreign tax laws. The discussion does not
consider any specific facts or circumstances that may apply to particular non-
U.S. holders (including insurance companies, tax-exempt organizations,
financial institutions, broker dealers or certain U.S. expatriates).
Furthermore, the following discussion is based on current provisions of the
Code, the regulations promulgated thereunder and administrative and judicial
interpretations as of the date hereof, all of which are subject to change,
possibly with retroactive effect. Treasury regulations were recently proposed
that would, if adopted in their present form, revise in certain respects the
rules applicable to non-U.S. holders of Common Stock (the "Proposed
Regulations"). The Proposed Regulations are generally proposed to be effective
with respect to payments made after December 31, 1997. It is not certain
whether, or in what form, the Proposed Regulations will be adopted as final
regulations. Each prospective investor is urged to consult its own tax adviser
as to its personal tax situation with respect to the U.S. Federal, state and
local consequences of owning and disposing of a share of Common Stock, as well
as any tax consequences arising under the laws of any other taxing
jurisdiction.
 
U.S. INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES
 
  It is not currently contemplated that the Company will pay dividends on the
Common Stock in the foreseeable future. If the Company were to pay a dividend
in the future, such a dividend paid to a non-U.S.
 
                                      39
<PAGE>
 
holder would be subject to U.S. withholding tax at a 30% rate, or if
applicable, a lower treaty rate, unless the dividend is effectively connected
with the conduct of a trade or business in the United States by a non-U.S.
holder (and, if certain tax treaties apply, is attributable to a United States
permanent establishment maintained by such non-U.S. holder). A dividend that
is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business in the United
States by the non-U.S. holder (and, if certain tax treaties apply, is
attributable to a United States permanent establishment maintained by such
non-U.S. holder) will generally be exempt from the withholding tax described
above and subject instead (i) to the U.S. Federal income tax on net income
that applies to U.S. persons and (ii) with respect to corporate holders under
certain circumstances, a 30% (or, if applicable, lower treaty rate) branch
profits tax that in general is imposed on its "effectively connected earnings
and profits" (within the meaning of the Code) for the taxable year, as
adjusted for certain items.
 
  Under current Treasury Regulations, dividends paid to an address in a
foreign country are presumed to be paid to a resident of that country (unless
the payor has knowledge to the contrary) for purposes of the withholding
discussed above and, under the current interpretation of the Treasury
Regulations, for purposes of determining the applicability of a tax treaty
rate. Under the Proposed Regulations, however, a non-U.S. holder of Common
Stock who wishes to claim the benefit of an applicable treaty rate would be
required to satisfy applicable certification and other requirements. In the
case of a foreign partnership, the certification requirement would generally
be applied to the partners of the partnership. In addition, the Proposed
Regulations also would require the partnership to provide certain information,
including a United States taxpayer identification number, and would provide
look-through rules for tiered partnerships. A non-U.S. holder that is eligible
for a reduced rate of U.S. withholding tax pursuant to an income tax treaty
may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld by filing an appropriate
claim for refund with the Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS").
 
  Under current law, a non-U.S. holder generally will not be subject to U.S.
Federal income tax on any gain recognized on a sale or other disposition of a
share of Common Stock unless (i) the gain is effectively connected with the
conduct of a trade or a business within the United States of the non-U.S.
holder and, if certain tax treaties apply, is attributable to a United States
permanent establishment maintained by the non-U.S. holder, (ii) the gain is
not described in clause (i) above, the non-U.S. holder is an individual who
holds the share as a capital asset, is present in the United States for 183
days or more in the taxable year of the disposition and either (a) such
individual has a "tax home" (as defined for U.S. Federal income tax purposes)
in the United States or (b) the gain is attributable to an office or other
fixed place of business maintained in the United States by such individual, or
(iii) the Company is or has been a United States real property holding
corporation (a "USRPHC") for United States federal income tax purposes (which
the Company does not believe that it is or is likely to become) at any time
within the shorter of the five year period preceding such disposition or such
non-U.S. holder's holding period. If the Company were to become a USRPHC,
gains realized upon a disposition of Common Stock by a non-U.S. holder which
did not directly or indirectly own more than 5% of the Common Stock during the
shorter of the periods described above generally would not be subject to
United States federal income tax, provided that the Common Stock is "regularly
traded" on an established securities market. In case of a non-U.S. holder that
is described under clause (i) above, its gain will be subject to the U.S.
Federal income tax on net income that applies to U.S. persons and, in
addition, if such non-U.S. holder is a foreign corporation, it may be subject
to the branch profits tax as described in the preceding paragraph. An
individual non-U.S. holder that is described under clause (ii) above will be
subject to a flat 30% tax on the gain derived from the sale, which may be
offset by certain U.S. capital losses (notwithstanding the fact that he or she
is not considered a resident of the United States). Thus, individual non-U.S.
holders who have spent 183 days or more in the United States in the taxable
year in which they contemplate a sale of the Common Stock are urged to consult
their tax advisers as to the tax consequences of such sale.
 
U.S. ESTATE TAX CONSEQUENCES
 
  Shares of Common Stock owned at the time of his or her death by an
individual non-U.S. holder will be includible in his or her gross estate for
U.S. Federal estate tax purposes unless an applicable estate tax treaty
provides otherwise, and may be subject to U.S. Federal estate tax.
 
                                      40
<PAGE>
 
BACK-UP WITHHOLDING AND INFORMATION REPORTING
 
 Dividends
 
  Except as provided below, the Company must report annually to the IRS and to
each non-U.S. holder the amount of dividends paid to and the tax withheld with
respect to such holder. These information reporting requirements apply
regardless of whether withholding was reduced or eliminated by an applicable
tax treaty. Copies of these information returns may also be available under
the provisions of a specific treaty or agreement with the tax authorities in
the country in which the non-U.S. holder resides. In general, backup
withholding at a rate of 31% and additional information reporting will apply
to dividends paid on shares of Common Stock to holders that are not "exempt
recipients" and that fail to provide in the manner required certain
identifying information (such as the holder's name, address and taxpayer
identification number). Generally, individuals are not exempt recipients,
whereas corporations and certain other entities generally are exempt
recipients. However, dividends that are subject to U.S. withholding tax at the
30% statutory rate or at a reduced tax treaty rate are exempt from backup
withholding of U.S. Federal income tax and such additional information
reporting.
 
 Broker Sales
 
  If a non-U.S. holder sells shares of Common Stock through a U.S. office of a
U.S. or foreign broker, the broker is required to file an information return
and is required to withhold 31% of the sale proceeds unless the non-U.S.
holder is an exempt recipient or has provided the broker with the information
and statements, under penalties of perjury, necessary to establish an
exemption from backup withholding. If payment of the proceeds of the sale of a
share by a non-U.S. holder is made to or through the foreign office of a
broker, that broker will not be required to backup withhold or, except as
provided in the next sentence, to file information returns. In the case of
proceeds from a sale of a share by a non-U.S. holder paid to or through the
foreign office of a U.S. broker or a foreign office of a foreign broker that
is (i) a controlled foreign corporation for U.S. tax purposes or (ii) a person
50% or more of whose gross income for the three-year period ending with the
close of the taxable year preceding the year of payment (or for the part of
that period that the broker has been in existence) is effectively connected
with the conduct of a trade or business within the United States (a "Foreign
U.S. Connected Broker"), information reporting is required unless the broker
has documentary evidence in its files that the payee is not a U.S. person and
certain other conditions are met, or the payee otherwise establishes an
exemption.
 
 Refunds
 
  Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules from a payment to a
non-U.S. holder may be refunded or credited against the non-U.S. holder's U.S.
Federal income tax liability, provided that the required information is
furnished to the IRS.
 
                                      41
<PAGE>
 
                                 UNDERWRITING
 
  Upon the terms and subject to the conditions stated in the U.S. Underwriting
Agreement dated the date hereof (the "U.S. Underwriting Agreement"), each of
the underwriters of the U.S. Offering named below (the "U.S. Underwriters"),
for whom Smith Barney Inc., Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation, Dillon,
Read & Co. Inc., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, Salomon
Brothers Inc and Wheat, First Securities, Inc. are acting as the
representatives (the "Representatives"), has severally agreed to purchase from
the Selling Stockholders the number of shares of Common Stock set forth
opposite the name of such U.S. Underwriter below.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   U.S. UNDERWRITERS                                            NUMBER OF SHARES
   -----------------                                            ----------------
   <S>                                                          <C>
   Smith Barney Inc. ..........................................
   Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation......................
   Dillon, Read & Co. Inc. ....................................
   Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
        Incorporated...........................................
   Salomon Brothers Inc........................................
   Wheat, First Securities, Inc. ..............................
                                                                   ---------
     Total.....................................................    8,800,000
                                                                   =========
</TABLE>
 
  Under the terms and subject to the conditions contained in the International
Underwriting Agreement dated the date hereof (the "International Underwriting
Agreement"), each of the managers of the concurrent International Offering
named below (the "Managers"), for whom Smith Barney Inc., Credit Suisse First
Boston (Europe) Limited, Dillon, Read & Co. Inc., Merrill Lynch International,
Salomon Brothers International Limited and Wheat, First Securities, Inc. are
acting as lead managers (the "Lead Managers"), has severally agreed to
purchase from the Selling Stockholders the numbers of shares of Common Stock
set forth opposite the name of such Manager below.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   MANAGERS                                                     NUMBER OF SHARES
   --------                                                     ----------------
   <S>                                                          <C>
   Smith Barney Inc. ..........................................
   Credit Suisse First Boston (Europe) Limited.................
   Dillon, Read & Co. Inc .....................................
   Merrill Lynch International.................................
   Salomon Brothers International Limited......................
   Wheat, First Securities, Inc. ..............................
                                                                   ---------
     Total.....................................................    2,200,000
                                                                   =========
</TABLE>
 
  Each of the U.S. Underwriting Agreement and the International Underwriting
Agreement provides that the obligations of the several U.S. Underwriters and
the several Managers to pay for and accept delivery of the shares of Common
Stock offered hereby are subject to the approval of certain legal matters by
counsel and to certain other conditions. The U.S. Underwriters and the
Managers are obligated to take and pay for all shares of Common Stock offered
hereby (other than those covered by the over-allotment option described below)
if any such shares are taken.
 
  The U.S. Underwriters and the Managers (collectively, the "Underwriters")
initially propose to offer part of the shares offered hereby directly to the
public at the public offering price set forth on the cover page of this
Prospectus and part of the shares offered hereby to certain dealers at a price
which represents a concession not in excess of $    per share under the price
to public. The U.S. Underwriters and the Managers may allow, and such dealers
may reallow, a concession not in excess of $    per share to other U.S.
Underwriters or Managers, respectively, or to certain other dealers.
 
                                      42
<PAGE>
 
  The Selling Stockholders have granted the U.S. Underwriters an option,
exercisable at any time and from time to time during a 30-day period from the
date of this Prospectus, to purchase up to an aggregate of 1,100,000
additional shares of Common Stock at the public offering price set forth on
the cover page hereof less underwriting commissions. The U.S. Underwriters may
exercise such option to purchase additional shares solely for the purpose of
covering over-allotments, if any, incurred in connection with the sales of the
shares of Common Stock offered hereby. To the extent such option is exercised,
each U.S. Underwriter will be obligated, subject to certain conditions, to
purchase approximately the same percentage of such additional shares as the
number of shares set forth opposite each U.S. Underwriter's name in the
preceding U.S. Underwriters table bears to the total number of shares of
Common Stock offered by the U.S. Underwriters hereby.
 
  The Company, certain of its officers and directors and the Selling
Stockholders have agreed that, for a period of 90 days from the date of this
Prospectus, they will not, without the prior written consent of Smith Barney
Inc., offer, sell, contract to sell, or otherwise dispose of, any shares of
Common Stock of the Company or any securities convertible into, or exercisable
or exchangeable for, Common Stock of the Company, or grant any options or
warrants to purchase Common Stock, except in certain circumstances, other than
shares included in the Company Repurchase. See "Selling Stockholders and
Company Repurchase."
 
  The U.S. Underwriters and the Managers have entered into an Agreement
between U.S. Underwriters and Managers pursuant to which each U.S. Underwriter
has agreed that as part of the distribution of the shares offered in the U.S.
Offering (i) it is not purchasing any such shares for the account of anyone
other than a U.S. or Canadian Person, and (ii) it has not offered or sold, and
will not offer, sell, resell or deliver, directly or indirectly, any of such
shares or distribute any prospectus relating to the U.S. Offering outside the
United States or Canada or to anyone other than a U.S. or Canadian Person. In
addition, each Manager has agreed that as part of the distribution of the
shares offered in the International Offering: (i) it is not purchasing any
such shares for the account of any U.S. or Canadian Person, and (ii) it has
not offered or sold, and will not offer, sell, resell or deliver, directly or
indirectly, any of such shares or distribute any prospectus relating to the
International Offering in the United States or Canada or to any U.S. or
Canadian Person. Each Manager has also agreed that it will offer to sell
shares only in compliance with all relevant requirements of any applicable
laws.
 
  The foregoing limitations do not apply to stabilization transactions or to
certain other transactions specified in the U.S. Underwriting Agreement, the
International Underwriting Agreement and the Agreement Between U.S.
Underwriters and Managers, including (i) certain purchases and sales between
the U.S. Underwriters and Managers, (ii) certain offers, sales, resales,
deliveries or distributions to or through investment advisors or other persons
exercising investment discretion, (iii) purchases, offers or sales by a U.S.
Underwriter who is also acting as a Manager or by a Manager who is also acting
as a U.S. Underwriter, and (iv) other transactions specifically approved by
the Representatives and the Lead Managers. As used herein, "U.S. or Canadian
Person" means any resident or national of the United States or Canada, any
corporation, partnership or other entity created or organized in or under the
laws of the United States or Canada or any estate or trust the income of which
is subject to U.S. or Canadian income taxation regardless of the source of its
income (other than the foreign branch of any U.S. or Canadian Person), and
includes any U.S. or Canadian branch of a person other than a U.S. or Canadian
Person.
 
  Any offer of shares in Canada will be made only pursuant to an exemption
from the requirement to file a prospectus in the relevant province of Canada
in which such offer is made.
 
  Each Manager has represented and agreed that (i) it has not offered or sold
and will not offer or sell in the United Kingdom, by means of any document,
any shares other than to persons whose ordinary business it is to buy or sell
shares or debentures, whether as principal or agent or in circumstances which
do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of the Public
Offering of Securities Regulation 1995, (ii) it has complied and will comply
with all applicable provisions of the Financial Services Act 1986 with respect
to anything done by it in relation to the shares in, from, or otherwise
involving, the United Kingdom, and (iii) it has only issued or passed on and
will only issue or pass on to any person in the United Kingdom any document
received by it in
 
                                      43
<PAGE>
 
connection with the issue of the shares if that person is of a kind described
in Article 11(3) of the Financial Services Act 1986 (Investment
Advertisements) (Exemptions) Order 1996 or is a person to whom the document
may otherwise lawfully be issued or passed on.
 
  No action has been or will be taken in any jurisdiction by the Company, the
U.S. Underwriters or the Managers that would permit any offering to the
general public of the Common Stock offered hereby in any jurisdiction other
than the United States.
 
  Purchasers of the Common Stock offered hereby may be required to pay stamp
taxes and other charges in accordance with the laws and practices of the
country of purchase in addition to the offering price set forth on the cover
page hereof.
 
  Pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and Managers, sales may
be made between the U.S. Underwriters and the Managers of such number of
shares of Common Stock as may be mutually agreed. The price of shares so sold
shall be the public offering price as then in effect for Common Stock being
sold by the U.S. Underwriters and the Managers, less all or any part of the
selling concession, unless otherwise determined by mutual agreement. To the
extent that there are sales between the U.S. Underwriters and Managers
pursuant to the Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and Managers, the number
of shares initially available for sale by the U.S. Underwriters and by the
Managers may be more or less than the number of shares appearing on the front
cover of this Prospectus.
 
  In connection with the Offerings and in compliance with applicable law, the
Underwriters may overallot (i.e., sell more Common Stock than the total amount
shown on the list of Underwriters and participations which appears above) and
may effect transactions which stabilize, maintain or otherwise affect the
market price of the Common Stock at levels above those which might otherwise
prevail in the open market. Such transactions may include placing bids for the
Common Stock or effecting purchases of the Common Stock for the purpose of
pegging, fixing or maintaining the price of the Common Stock or for the
purpose of reducing a syndicate short position created in connection with the
Offerings. A syndicate short position may be covered by exercise of the option
described above in lieu of or in addition to open market purchases. In
addition, the contractual arrangements among the Underwriters include a
provision whereby, if the Representatives or Lead Managers purchase Common
Stock in the open market for the account of the underwriting syndicate and the
securities purchased can be traced to a particular U.S. Underwriter, Manager
or syndicate member, the underwriting syndicate may require the U.S.
Underwriter, Manager or syndicate member in question to purchase the Common
Stock in question at the cost price to the syndicate or may recover from (or
decline to pay to) the U.S. Underwriter, Manager or syndicate member in
question the selling concession applicable to the securities in question. The
Underwriters are not required to engage in any of these activities and any
such activities, if commenced, may be discontinued at any time.
 
  Smith Barney Inc. has from time to time performed various investment banking
services for the Company, including in connection with the Company's
acquisition of Thomasville, and has received customary fees in respect of such
activities.
 
  The Company, the Selling Stockholders, the U.S. Underwriters and the
Managers have agreed to indemnify each other against certain liabilities,
including liabilities under the Securities Act.
 
                                      44
<PAGE>
 
                                 LEGAL MATTERS
 
  The validity of the shares offered hereby will be passed upon for the
Company by Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Certain
legal matters will be passed upon for the Selling Stockholders by Wachtell,
Lipton, Rosen & Katz, New York, New York, and for the Underwriters by Cravath,
Swaine & Moore, New York, New York.
 
                                    EXPERTS
 
  The consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule of
the Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, and for each of
the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 1996, have been included
and incorporated by reference herein and in the registration statement in
reliance upon the reports of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, independent certified
public accountants, appearing elsewhere and incorporated by reference herein,
and upon the authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
 
                             AVAILABLE INFORMATION
 
  The Company is subject to the informational requirements of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), and in accordance
therewith files reports, proxy statements and other information with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission"). Such reports, proxy
statements and other information filed by the Company can be inspected and
copied at the public reference facilities of the Commission, Judiciary Plaza,
450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20549, as well as at the following
Commission Regional Offices: Seven World Trade Center, 13th Floor, New York,
NY 10048; and Citicorp Center, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago,
Illinois 60661-2511. Copies can be obtained from the Commission by mail at
prescribed rates. Requests should be directed to the Commission's Public
Reference Branch, Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, DC
20549. Such material can be inspected and copied at the offices of the New
York Stock Exchange, 20 Broad Street, New York, New York, 10005, on which the
Company's Common Stock is listed. Such material may also be accessed
electronically by means of the Commission's home page on the Internet
(http://www.sec.gov).
 
  This Prospectus constitutes a part of a registration statement on Form S-3
(herein, together with all exhibits thereto, referred to as the "Registration
Statement") filed by the Company with the Commission under the Securities Act
of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), with respect to the securities
offered hereby. This Prospectus does not contain all the information set forth
in the Registration Statement, certain parts of which are omitted in
accordance with the rules and regulations of the Commission. Reference is
hereby made to the Registration Statement and to the exhibits thereto for
further information with respect to the Company and the securities offered
hereby. Copies of the Registration Statement and the exhibits thereto are on
file at the offices of the Commission and may be obtained upon payment of the
prescribed fee or may be examined without charge at the public reference
facilities of the Commission described above. Statements contained herein
concerning the provisions of documents are necessarily summaries of such
documents, and each statement is qualified in its entirety by reference to the
copy of the applicable document filed with the Commission.
 
                INCORPORATION OF CERTAIN DOCUMENTS BY REFERENCE
 
  The following documents filed by the Company with the Commission (File No.
I-91) are incorporated by reference in this Prospectus:
 
    (1) Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996;
 
    (2) Quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 1997;
 
    (3) Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 29, 1997; and
 
    (4) the description of the Company's Common Stock contained in its Form 8
  filed with the Commission on June 29, 1992.
 
                                      45
<PAGE>
 
  All documents filed by the Company pursuant to Section 13(a), 13(c), 14 or
15(d) of the Exchange Act subsequent to the date of this Prospectus and prior
to the termination of the Offering shall be deemed to be incorporated by
reference into this Prospectus.
 
  Any statement contained in a document incorporated or deemed to be
incorporated by reference herein shall be deemed to be modified or superseded
for purposes of this Prospectus to the extent that a statement contained
herein or in any other subsequently filed document which also is or is deemed
to be incorporated by reference herein modifies or supersedes such statement.
Any such statement so modified or superseded shall not be deemed, except as so
modified or superseded, to constitute a part of this Prospectus.
 
  This Prospectus incorporates documents by reference which are not presented
herein or delivered herewith. These documents (not including exhibits to the
documents incorporated by reference unless such exhibits are specifically
incorporated by reference into the information that the Prospectus
incorporates) are available without charge to each person to whom a Prospectus
is delivered upon written or oral request. Requests should be directed to
Furniture Brands International, Inc., 101 South Hanley Road, St. Louis,
Missouri 63105-3493, Attention: Secretary (telephone number (314) 863-1100).
 
                                      46
<PAGE>
 
                      FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                   INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                           PAGE
                                                                           ----
<S>                                                                        <C>
AUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
Independent Auditors' Report.............................................   F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1995 and 1996.............   F-3
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31,
 1994, 1995 and 1996.....................................................   F-4
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31,
 1994, 1995 and 1996.....................................................   F-5
Consolidated Statement of Shareholders' Equity for the Years Ended Decem-
 ber 31, 1994, 1995 and 1996.............................................   F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements...............................   F-7
UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
Consolidated Balance Sheet as of March 31, 1997..........................  F-19
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three Months Ended March
 31, 1996 and
 March 31, 1997..........................................................  F-20
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March
 31, 1996 and
 March 31, 1997..........................................................  F-21
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements...............................  F-22
</TABLE>
 
                                      F-1
<PAGE>
 
                         INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
 
The Board of Directors and Shareholders
 Furniture Brands International, Inc.:
 
  We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Furniture
Brands International, Inc. and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of December 31,
1995 and 1996, and the related consolidated statements of operations,
shareholders' equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year
period ended December 31, 1996. These consolidated financial statements are
the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to
express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our
audits.
 
  We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of
material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit
also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial
statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis
for our opinion.
 
  In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Furniture
Brands International, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1995 and 1996,
and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years
in the three-year period ended December 31, 1996, in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles.
 
                                          KPMG Peat Marwick LLP
 
St. Louis, Missouri
January 28, 1997
 
                                      F-2
<PAGE>
 
                      FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31,
                                                          1995         1996
                                                      ------------ ------------
                                                       (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                   <C>          <C>
                       ASSETS
Current assets:
  Cash and cash equivalents..........................  $   26,412   $   19,365
  Receivables, less allowances of $20,724 and $19,124
   at December 31, 1995 and 1996 (Note 8)............     276,116      283,417
  Inventories (Note 6)...............................     269,677      281,107
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets..........      17,888       23,378
                                                       ----------   ----------
      Total current assets...........................     590,093      607,267
Property, plant and equipment:
  Land...............................................      16,635       16,292
  Buildings and improvements.........................     166,214      172,783
  Machinery and equipment............................     206,580      236,654
                                                       ----------   ----------
                                                          389,429      425,729
  Less accumulated depreciation......................      83,023      123,767
                                                       ----------   ----------
      Net property, plant and equipment..............     306,406      301,962
Intangible assets (Note 7)...........................     370,307      344,101
Other assets.........................................      24,933       15,874
                                                       ----------   ----------
                                                       $1,291,739   $1,269,204
                                                       ==========   ==========
        LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
  Current maturities of long-term debt (Note 8)......  $   18,639   $      --
  Accounts payable...................................      53,093       61,095
  Accrued employee compensation......................      29,020       29,864
  Accrued interest expense...........................       1,304        6,579
  Other accrued expenses.............................      33,001       47,068
                                                       ----------   ----------
      Total current liabilities......................     135,057      144,606
Long-term debt, less current maturities (Note 8).....     705,040      572,600
Other long-term liabilities..........................     150,486      132,341
Shareholders' equity:
  Preferred stock, authorized 10,000,000 shares, no
   par value--issued, none...........................         --           --
  Common stock, authorized 100,000,000 shares, $1.00
   stated value (no par value)--issued 50,120,079
   shares and 61,432,181 shares at December 31, 1995
   and 1996 (Note 9).................................      50,120       61,432
  Paid-in capital....................................     218,156      278,554
  Retained earnings..................................      32,880       79,671
                                                       ----------   ----------
      Total shareholders' equity.....................     301,156      419,657
                                                       ----------   ----------
                                                       $1,291,739   $1,269,204
                                                       ==========   ==========
</TABLE>
 
          See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      F-3
<PAGE>
 
                      FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                              -------------------------------------------------
                                   1994             1995             1996
                              ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
                               (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S>                           <C>              <C>              <C>
Net sales...................  $     1,072,696  $     1,073,889  $     1,696,795
Costs and expenses:
  Cost of operations........          752,528          760,393        1,228,355
  Selling, general and
   administrative expenses..          199,333          198,321          283,432
  Depreciation and
   amortization (includes
   $16,900, $15,922 and
   $16,285 related to fair
   value adjustments).......           35,776           36,104           54,082
                              ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
Earnings from operations....           85,059           79,071          130,926
Interest expense............           37,886           33,845           45,217
Other income, net:
  Gain on insurance
   settlement (Note 14).....              --             7,882              --
  Other.....................            1,668            3,930            2,583
                              ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
Earnings before income tax
 expense, discontinued
 operations and
 extraordinary item.........           48,841           57,038           88,292
Income tax expense (Note
 10)........................           20,908           22,815           34,070
                              ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
Net earnings from continuing
 operations.................           27,933           34,223           54,222
Discontinued operations
 (Note 4):
  Earnings from operations,
   net of taxes.............           25,443              --               --
  Loss on distribution, net
   of taxes.................          (15,104)             --               --
                              ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
Net earnings before
 extraordinary item.........           38,272           34,223           54,222
Extraordinary item--early
 extinguishment of debt, net
 of tax benefit (Note 5)....              --            (5,815)          (7,417)
                              ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
Net earnings................  $        38,272  $        28,408  $        46,805
                              ===============  ===============  ===============
Net earnings per common
 share--primary (Note 3):
  Net earnings from
   continuing operations....  $          0.54  $          0.67  $          0.88
  Discontinued operations...             0.20              --               --
  Extraordinary item--early
   extinguishment of debt...              --             (0.11)           (0.12)
                              ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
Net earnings per common
 share--primary.............  $          0.74  $          0.56  $          0.76
                              ===============  ===============  ===============
Net earnings per common
 share--fully diluted (Note
 3):
  Net earnings from
   continuing operations....  $          0.54  $          0.65  $          0.86
  Discontinued operations...             0.20              --               --
  Extraordinary item--early
   extinguishment of debt...              --             (0.11)           (0.12)
                              ---------------  ---------------  ---------------
Net earnings per common
 share--fully diluted.......  $          0.74  $          0.54  $          0.74
                              ===============  ===============  ===============
</TABLE>
 
          See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      F-4
<PAGE>
 
                      FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                  ----------------------------
                                                    1994      1995      1996
                                                  --------  --------  --------
                                                    (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                               <C>       <C>       <C>
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
 Net earnings.................................... $ 38,272  $ 28,408  $ 46,805
 Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net
  cash provided by operating activities:
  Net loss on early extinguishment of debt.......      --      5,815     7,417
  Net earnings from discontinued operations......  (10,339)      --        --
  Depreciation of property, plant and equipment..   25,675    26,371    42,022
  Amortization of intangible and other assets....   10,101     9,733    12,060
  Noncash interest and other expense.............      196     2,150     2,042
  (Increase) decrease in receivables.............  (27,979)      165    (7,301)
  (Increase) decrease in inventories.............  (20,553)    3,340   (11,430)
  Decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets..    2,648     1,179    13,695
  Increase (decrease) in accounts payable,
   accrued interest expense and other accrued
   expenses......................................   (1,233)   14,794    33,710
  Increase (decrease) in net deferred tax
   liabilities...................................    7,904      (211)   (7,972)
  Increase (decrease) in other long-term
   liabilities...................................   (2,676)      246   (15,628)
                                                  --------  --------  --------
 Net cash provided by continuing operations......   22,016    91,990   115,420
 Net cash used by discontinued operations........  (16,695)      --        --
                                                  --------  --------  --------
 Net cash provided by operating activities.......    5,321    91,990   115,420
                                                  --------  --------  --------
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
 Acquisition of business (Note 2)................      --   (335,438)      --
 Proceeds from the disposal of assets............    5,621       519     2,766
 Additions to property, plant and equipment......  (21,108)  (35,616)  (40,344)
                                                  --------  --------  --------
 Net cash used by investing activities...........  (15,487) (370,535)  (37,578)
                                                  --------  --------  --------
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
 Payments for debt issuance costs................  (11,455)  (14,026)   (4,467)
 Additions to long-term debt.....................  423,000   576,000   380,000
 Payments of long-term debt...................... (404,741) (286,574) (530,279)
 Proceeds from the sale of common stock..........      --        --     81,292
 Proceeds from the issuance of common stock......      698       201     9,290
 Payments for the repurchase of common stock
  warrants.......................................      --     (2,789)  (19,961)
 Payments for common stock offering expenses of
  selling shareholders...........................      --        --       (764)
                                                  --------  --------  --------
 Net cash provided (used) by financing
  activities.....................................    7,502   272,812   (84,889)
                                                  --------  --------  --------
 Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents.......   (2,664)   (5,733)   (7,047)
 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of
  period.........................................   34,809    32,145    26,412
                                                  --------  --------  --------
 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period...... $ 32,145  $ 26,412  $ 19,365
                                                  ========  ========  ========
 Supplemental Disclosure:
  Cash payments for income taxes, net............ $ 37,127  $ 14,386  $ 33,126
                                                  ========  ========  ========
  Cash payments for interest..................... $ 39,345  $ 32,010  $ 37,960
                                                  ========  ========  ========
</TABLE>
 
          See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      F-5
<PAGE>
 
                      FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                            COMMON  PAID-IN   RETAINED
                                             STOCK  CAPITAL   EARNINGS   TOTAL
                                            ------- --------  --------  --------
                                                  (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                         <C>     <C>       <C>       <C>
Balance December 31, 1993.................  $50,004 $226,391  $62,162   $338,557
Net earnings..............................                     38,272     38,272
Common stock activity:
  Stock option exercises (Note 9).........       71      615                 686
  Warrant exercises--983 shares...........        1       11                  12
Foreign currency translations.............                      2,659      2,659
Distribution of discontinued operations to
 shareholders.............................            (6,229) (98,563)  (104,792)
                                            ------- --------  -------   --------
Balance December 31, 1994.................   50,076  220,788    4,530    275,394
Net earnings..............................                     28,408     28,408
Common stock activity:
  Stock option exercises (Note 9).........       43      153                 196
  Warrant exercises--564 shares...........        1        4                   5
  Warrant purchases--1,489,422 shares.....            (2,789)             (2,789)
Foreign currency translations.............                        (58)       (58)
                                            ------- --------  -------   --------
Balance December 31, 1995.................   50,120  218,156   32,880    301,156
Net earnings..............................                     46,805     46,805
Common stock activity:
  Sale of common stock--10,000,000
   shares.................................   10,000   71,292              81,292
  Stock option grants and exercises (Note
   9).....................................       85    2,309               2,394
  Warrant exercises--1,227,052 shares.....    1,227    7,522               8,749
  Warrant purchases--3,578,399 shares.....           (19,961)            (19,961)
  Common stock offering expenses of
   selling shareholders...................              (764)               (764)
Foreign currency translations.............                        (14)       (14)
                                            ------- --------  -------   --------
Balance December 31, 1996.................  $61,432 $278,554  $79,671   $419,657
                                            ======= ========  =======   ========
</TABLE>
 
 
          See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      F-6
<PAGE>
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                  NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
                 (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
 
1. THE COMPANY
 
  Furniture Brands International, Inc. (the "Company") is a major manufacturer
of residential furniture. During the year ended December 31, 1996, the Company
had three primary operating subsidiaries, Broyhill Furniture Industries, Inc.;
The Lane Company, Incorporated, and Thomasville Furniture Industries, Inc.
 
  Substantially all of the Company's sales are made to unaffiliated furniture
retailers. The Company has a diversified customer base with no one customer
accounting for 10% or more of consolidated sales and no particular
concentration of credit risk in one economic section. Foreign operations and
sales are not material.
 
2. ACQUISITION OF BUSINESS
 
  On December 29, 1995, the Company acquired all of the outstanding stock of
Thomasville Furniture Industries, Inc. The purchase price totaled $331,200
plus the assumption of $8,000 of long-term debt. The purchase price, including
capitalized expenses which approximated $4,200, was paid in cash. The
transaction was accounted for as a purchase and, since the acquisition
occurred as of the last business day of 1995, was reflected in the Company's
consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 1995. The Company's results of
operations for 1995 do not include any of the operations of Thomasville. The
total acquisition cost exceeded the estimated fair value of the net assets
acquired by $93,110 with such amount being recorded as an intangible asset.
The determination of the final fair values of assets and liabilities resulted
in adjustments consisting of changes from initially recorded values as of
December 31, 1995 resulting in decreases in receivables, inventories, excess
of cost over net assets acquired and other noncurrent liabilities of $3,350,
$2,236, $12,654 and $16,641, respectively. Adjustments to other balance sheet
accounts were individually immaterial.
 
  The following unaudited summary, prepared on a pro forma basis, combines the
consolidated results of operations of the Company for 1994 and 1995 with those
of Thomasville as if the transaction occurred at the beginning of each year
presented.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                        YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                        -----------------------
                                                           1994        1995
                                                        ----------- -----------
   <S>                                                  <C>         <C>
   Net sales........................................... $ 1,599,339 $ 1,624,116
   Net earnings from continuing operations.............      30,963      37,422
   Net earnings........................................      41,302      31,607
   Net earnings per common share--fully diluted:
     Continuing operations.............................        0.60        0.72
     Total.............................................        0.80        0.61
</TABLE>
 
  The pro forma data has been adjusted, net of income taxes, to reflect
interest expense and the amortization of the excess of cost over net assets
acquired. Such pro forma amounts are not necessarily indicative of what the
actual consolidated results of operations might have been if the acquisition
had been effective at the beginning of each year presented.
 
3. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
  The significant accounting policies of the Company are set forth below.
 
 Use of Estimates
 
  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and
assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and
 
                                      F-7
<PAGE>
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial
statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the
reported period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
 
 Principles of Consolidation
 
  The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company
and all its subsidiaries. All material intercompany transactions are
eliminated in consolidation. The Company's fiscal year ends on December 31.
The operating companies included in the consolidated financial statements
report their results of operations as of the Saturday closest to December 31.
Accordingly, the results of operations will periodically include a 53 week
fiscal year. The years 1994, 1995 and 1996 all represent 52 week fiscal years.
 
 Cash and Cash Equivalents
 
  The Company considers all short-term investments with an original maturity
of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Short-term investments are
recorded at amortized cost, which approximates market.
 
 Inventories
 
  Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out) or market.
 
 Property, Plant and Equipment
 
  Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost when acquired.
Expenditures for improvements are capitalized while normal repairs and
maintenance are expensed as incurred. When properties are disposed of, the
related cost and accumulated depreciation or amortization are removed from the
accounts, and gains or losses on the dispositions are reflected in results of
operations. For financial reporting purposes, the Company utilizes both
accelerated and straight-line methods of computing depreciation and
amortization. Such expense is computed based on the estimated useful lives of
the respective assets, which generally range from 3 to 45 years for buildings
and improvements and from 3 to 12 years for machinery and equipment.
 
 Intangible Assets
 
  The excess of cost over net assets acquired in connection with the
acquisition of Thomasville totaled $93,110. The determination of the final
fair values of assets and liabilities resulted in adjustments consisting of
changes from initially recorded values as of December 31, 1995 resulting in
decreases in receivables, inventories, excess of cost over net assets acquired
and other noncurrent liabilities of $3,350, $2,236, $12,654 and $16,641,
respectively. Adjustments to other balance sheet accounts were individually
immaterial. This intangible asset is being amortized on a straight-line basis
over a 40 year period.
 
  The Company emerged from Chapter 11 reorganization effective with the
beginning of business on August 3, 1992. In accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles, the Company was required to adopt "fresh-start"
reporting which included adjusting all assets and liabilities to their fair
values as of the effective date. The ongoing impact of the adoption of fresh-
start reporting is reflected in the financial statements for all years
presented.
 
  As a result of adopting fresh-start reporting, the Company recorded
reorganization value in excess of amounts allocable to identifiable assets of
approximately $146,000. This intangible asset is being amortized on a
straight-line basis over a 20 year period.
 
                                      F-8
<PAGE>
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  Also in connection with the adoption of fresh-start reporting, the Company
recorded approximately $156,800 in fair value of trademarks and trade names
based upon an independent appraisal. Such trademarks and trade names are being
amortized on a straight-line basis over a 40 year period.
 
 Interest Rate Swap Agreements
 
  Interest rate swap agreements are used by the Company to fix the interest
rate on a portion of its floating rate long-term debt. Amounts to be paid or
received under the interest rate swap agreements are recognized in income as
adjustments to interest expense. The fair value of the interest rate swap
agreements is not recognized in the consolidated financial statements since
they are accounted for as hedges.
 
 Revenue Recognition
 
  The Company recognizes revenue when finished products are shipped with
appropriate provisions for returns and uncollectible accounts.
 
 Income Tax Expense
 
  Income tax expense is based on results of operations before discontinued
operations and extraordinary items. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are
recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to
differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing
assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases. Deferred tax assets and
liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in
which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The
effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is
recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
 
 Extraordinary Item
 
  In conjunction with the September 6, 1996 refinancing of the Secured Credit
Agreement, the deferred financing fees and expenses pertaining to the
refinanced credit facility were charged to results of operations, as an
extraordinary item.
 
  In conjunction with the December 29, 1995 acquisition of Thomasville, the
Company refinanced its Secured Credit Agreement and amended its Receivables
Securitization Facility. As a result thereof, the Company charged to results
of operations, as an extraordinary item, the deferred financing fees and
expenses pertaining to such credit facilities.
 
 Net Earnings Per Common Share
 
  Net earnings per common share is based on the weighted average number of
shares of common stock and common stock equivalents outstanding during the
year. The stock options and warrants outstanding (Note 9) are considered
common stock equivalents. Weighted average shares used in the calculation of
primary and fully diluted net earnings per common share for 1996 were
61,946,000 and 62,871,000, respectively.
 
 Stock-Based Compensation
 
  Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-
Based Compensation," encourages, but does not require, companies to record
compensation cost for stock-based employee compensation plans at fair value.
The Company has chosen to continue to account for stock-based compensation
using the intrinsic value method prescribed in Accounting Principles Board
Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees."
 
 Reclassification
 
  Certain 1994 and 1995 amounts have been reclassified to conform to the 1996
presentation.
 
                                      F-9
<PAGE>
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
4. DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
 
  On November 17, 1994, the Company distributed the common stock of each of
The Florsheim Shoe Company and Converse Inc. (which, in aggregate, represented
the Company's footwear segment) to its shareholders. In accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles, the financial results for the
footwear segment are reported as "Discontinued Operations" and the Company's
financial results of prior periods were restated. Condensed results of the
discontinued operations were as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             ELEVEN MONTHS ENDED
                                                              NOVEMBER 17, 1994
                                                             -------------------
   <S>                                                       <C>
   Net sales................................................      $ 663,637
                                                                  =========
   Earnings before income tax expense.......................      $  40,047
   Income tax expense.......................................         14,604
                                                                  ---------
   Net earnings.............................................      $  25,443
                                                                  =========
   Loss on distribution, net of taxes of $4,564.............      $ (15,104)
                                                                  =========
</TABLE>
 
  The loss on distribution reflects expenses related to: the distribution of
the common stock of The Florsheim Shoe Company and Converse Inc. to the
Company's shareholders, including certain expenses associated with
establishing the capital structure of each company; compensation expense
accrued as a result of adjustments required to be made to exercisable employee
stock options; interest expense on certain long-term debt defeased, net of
estimated interest income to be received from the trustees; and applicable
income taxes.
 
  Prior to the distribution of the common stock of The Florsheim Shoe Company
to its shareholders, the Company had guaranteed certain of Florsheim's retail
store operating leases. At December 31, 1996, the Company had guarantees
outstanding on 85 retail store leases with a contingent liability totaling
approximately $29,700. The Florsheim Shoe Company has agreed to indemnify the
Company against any losses incurred as a result of the lease guarantees.
 
5. EXTRAORDINARY ITEM--EARLY EXTINGUISHMENT OF DEBT
 
  In conjunction with the September 6, 1996 refinancing of the Secured Credit
Agreement, the Company charged to results of operations $7,417, net of tax
benefit of $4,469, representing the deferred financing fees and expenses
pertaining to the refinanced facility. The charge was recorded as an
extraordinary item.
 
  In conjunction with the December 29, 1995 acquisition of Thomasville, the
Company refinanced its Secured Credit Agreement and amended its Receivables
Securitization Facility. As a result thereof, the Company charged to results
of operations $5,815, net of taxes of $3,478, representing the deferred
financing fees and expenses pertaining to such credit facilities. The charge
was recorded as an extraordinary item.
 
6. INVENTORIES
 
  Inventories are summarized as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31,
                                                           1995         1996
                                                       ------------ ------------
   <S>                                                 <C>          <C>
   Finished products..................................   $114,857     $127,292
   Work-in-process....................................     51,259       51,587
   Raw materials......................................    103,561      102,228
                                                         --------     --------
                                                         $269,677     $281,107
                                                         ========     ========
</TABLE>
 
                                     F-10
<PAGE>
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
7. INTANGIBLE ASSETS
 
  Intangible assets include the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31,
                                                         1995         1996
                                                     ------------ ------------
   <S>                                               <C>          <C>
   Intangible assets, at cost:
     Reorganization value in excess of amounts
      allocable to identifiable assets..............   $146,063     $146,063
     Trademarks and trade names.....................    156,828      156,828
     Excess of cost over net assets acquired........    105,764       93,110
                                                       --------     --------
                                                        408,655      396,001
   Less accumulated amortization....................     38,348       51,900
                                                       --------     --------
                                                       $370,307     $344,101
                                                       ========     ========
</TABLE>
 
8. LONG-TERM DEBT
 
  Long-term debt consists of the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                       DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31,
                                                           1995         1996
                                                       ------------ ------------
   <S>                                                 <C>          <C>
   Secured credit agreement...........................   $521,000     $359,000
   Receivables securitization facility................    185,000      200,000
   Other..............................................     17,679       13,600
                                                         --------     --------
                                                          723,679      572,600
   Less current maturities............................     18,639          --
                                                         --------     --------
                                                         $705,040     $572,600
                                                         ========     ========
</TABLE>
 
  The following discussion summarizes certain provisions of the long-term
debt.
 
Secured Credit Agreement
 
  On September 6, 1996, the Company refinanced its Secured Credit Agreement.
The new Secured Credit Agreement is a five year reducing revolving credit
facility with an initial commitment totaling $475,000. The Secured Credit
Agreement allows for issuance of letters of credit and cash borrowings. Letter
of credit outstandings are limited to no more than $60,000, with cash
borrowings limited only by the facility's maximum availability less letters of
credit outstanding.
 
  Under the letter of credit facility, a fee of 0.875% per annum (subject to
reduction based upon the Company achieving certain leverage ratios) is
assessed for the account of the lenders ratably. A further fee of 0.125% is
assessed on stand-by letters of credit representing a facing fee. A customary
administrative charge for processing letters of credit is also payable to the
relevant issuing bank. Letter of credit fees are payable quarterly in arrears.
 
  Cash borrowings under the Secured Credit Agreement bear interest at a base
rate or at an adjusted Eurodollar rate plus an applicable margin which varies,
depending upon the type of loan the Company executes. The applicable margin
over the base rate and the Eurodollar rate is subject to adjustment based upon
achieving certain leverage ratios. At December 31, 1996, all loans outstanding
under the Secured Credit Agreement were based on the Eurodollar rate.
 
                                     F-11
<PAGE>
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  At December 31, 1996, there were $359,000 of cash borrowings and $28,767 in
letters of credit outstanding under the Secured Credit Agreement, leaving an
excess of $87,233 available under the facility.
 
  The common stock of the Company's principal subsidiaries, substantially all
of the Company's cash, working capital (other than trade receivables) and
property, plant and equipment, have been pledged or mortgaged as security for
the Secured Credit Agreement. The Secured Credit Agreement contains a number
of restrictive covenants and events of default, including covenants limiting
capital expenditures and incurrence of debt, and requires the Company to
achieve certain financial ratios, some of which become more restrictive over
time.
 
  The Secured Credit Agreement has no mandatory principal payments; however,
the commitment is reduced to $400,000 on September 30, 1999 and $300,000 on
September 29, 2000, with the remaining commitment maturing on September 15,
2001. In addition, the facility requires principal payments from a portion of
the net proceeds realized from (i) the sale, conveyance or other disposition
of collateral securing the debt, or (ii) the sale by the Company for its own
account of additional subordinated debt and/or shares of its preferred and/or
common stock.
 
 Receivables Securitization Facility
 
  The Receivables Securitization Facility is an obligation of the Company
which matures on December 29, 2000 and is secured by substantially all of the
Company's trade receivables. The facility operates through use of a special
purpose subsidiary (Interco Receivables Corp.) which "buys" trade receivables
from the operating companies and "sells" interests in same to a third party
financial institution, which uses the interests as collateral for borrowings
in the commercial paper market to fund the purchases. The Company accounts for
this facility as long-term debt.
 
  The Company pays a commercial paper index rate on all funds received
(outstanding) on the facility. In addition, a program fee of 0.55% per annum
on the entire $225,000 facility is payable on a monthly basis. The balance
outstanding at December 31, 1996 was $200,000. The Company may increase or
decrease its use of the facility on a monthly basis subject to the
availability of sufficient trade receivables and the facility's maximum amount
($225,000). As of December 31, 1996, the Company had $9,989 in excess
availability under the facility.
 
 Other
 
  Other long-term debt consists of various industrial revenue bonds and other
debt instruments with interest rates ranging from approximately 4.0% to 9.0%.
Annual mandatory principal payments are required through 2004.
 
 Interest Rate Swap Agreements
 
  In February 1996, the Company entered into interest rate swap agreements
with two financial institutions to reduce the impact of changes in interest
rates on its floating rate long-term debt. The two agreements, which mature in
three years, have a total notional principal amount of $300,000. The swap
agreements effectively convert a portion of the Company's floating rate long-
term debt to a fixed rate. The Company pays the counterparties a fixed rate of
5.14% per annum and receives payments based upon the floating three month
Eurodollar rate. The Company is exposed to credit loss in the event of
nonperformance by the counterparties; however, the Company does not anticipate
nonperformance by the counterparties.
 
 Other Information
 
  Maturities of long-term debt are $0, $0, $0, $288,567 and $272,033 for years
1997 through 2001, respectively.
 
                                     F-12
<PAGE>
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
9. COMMON STOCK
 
  The Company's restated certificate of incorporation includes authorization
to issue up to 100.0 million shares of common stock with a $1.00 per share
stated value. As of December 31, 1996, 61,432,181 shares of common stock were
issued and outstanding. It is not presently anticipated that dividends will be
paid on common stock in the foreseeable future and certain of the debt
instruments to which the Company is a party restrict the payment of dividends.
 
  Shares of common stock were reserved for the following purposes at December
31, 1996:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                NUMBER OF SHARES
                                                                ----------------
   <S>                                                          <C>
   Common stock options:
     Granted...................................................    3,859,476
     Available for grant.......................................      184,724
   Common stock warrants.......................................    2,042,631
                                                                   ---------
                                                                   6,086,831
                                                                   =========
</TABLE>
 
  Under the Company's 1992 Stock Option Plan, certain key employees may be
granted nonqualified options, incentive options or combinations thereof.
Nonqualified and incentive options may be granted to expire up to ten years
after the date of grant. Options granted become exercisable at varying dates
depending upon the achievement of certain performance targets and/or the
passage of certain time periods.
 
  In October 1995, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No.
123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" ("SFAS No. 123"). Under SFAS
No. 123, companies can either measure the compensation cost of equity
instruments issued under employee compensation plans using a fair value based
method, or can continue to recognize compensation cost under the provisions of
Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25 ("Opinion No. 25") with pro forma
disclosures of net income and earnings per share as if the fair value method
has been applied. The Company adopted SFAS No. 123 as of January 1, 1996 and
has elected to, as permitted under the statement, continue recognition of
compensation costs under the provisions of Opinion No. 25 with appropriate
disclosure, if material. The effect on net earnings for the years ended
December 31, 1996 and 1995 is not material and, accordingly, no disclosure has
been made. Further, based on current and anticipated use of stock options for
the forseeable future, it is not envisioned the impact of the pronouncement
would be material in subsequent periods.
 
  The 1992 Stock Option Plan authorizes grants of options to purchase common
shares at less than fair market value on the date of grant. During 1996,
option grants totalling 217,978 common shares were made by the Company at less
than market value. These options were issued to Thomasville employees as
compensation for forfeited deferred compensation plans due to the acquisition;
therefore, the cost of issuing the option at less than market value was
included in determining the excess of cost over net assets acquired.
 
                                     F-13
<PAGE>
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  Changes in options granted and outstanding are summarized as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                YEAR ENDED               YEAR ENDED               YEAR ENDED
                            DECEMBER 31, 1994         DECEMBER 31, 1995        DECEMBER 31, 1996
                         ------------------------- ------------------------ ------------------------
                           SHARES    AVERAGE PRICE  SHARES    AVERAGE PRICE  SHARES    AVERAGE PRICE
                         ----------  ------------- ---------  ------------- ---------  -------------
<S>                      <C>         <C>           <C>        <C>           <C>        <C>
Beginning of period.....  2,915,000      $7.39     2,643,000      $4.64     2,498,000      $4.75
Granted.................    917,000       7.85       125,000       6.42     1,620,926       9.14
Exercised...............    (71,250)      7.00       (43,000)      3.38       (85,050)      3.99
Canceled................ (1,117,750)      7.82      (227,000)      4.68      (174,400)      4.29
                         ----------                ---------                ---------
End of period...........  2,643,000      $4.64     2,498,000      $4.75     3,859,476      $6.63
                         ==========      =====     =========      =====     =========      =====
Exercisable at end of
 period.................    954,750                1,346,750                1,473,600
                         ==========                =========                =========
</TABLE>
 
  As a result of the November 17, 1994 distribution of the common stock of The
Florsheim Shoe Company and Converse Inc. to the Company's shareholders,
options granted to the employees of those operating companies were canceled.
In addition, the exercise prices of the remaining options were adjusted to
reflect the distribution in accordance with the antidilution provisions of the
1992 Stock Option Plan.
 
  As of December 31, 1996, the Company had outstanding approximately 2.0
million warrants to purchase common stock. Each warrant entitles the holder
thereof to purchase one share of common stock at $7.13 per share (as adjusted
for the November 17, 1994 distribution to shareholders of the Company's former
footwear segment). The warrants, which expire on August 3, 1999, include a
five year call protection, which expires on August 3, 1997. The warrants trade
on the over-the-counter market.
 
10. INCOME TAXES
 
  Income tax expense was comprised of the following:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                  ----------------------------
                                                    1994      1995      1996
                                                  --------  --------  --------
   <S>                                            <C>       <C>       <C>
   Current:
     Federal....................................  $ 10,095  $ 20,499  $ 40,870
     State and local............................     2,909     2,527     4,014
                                                  --------  --------  --------
                                                    13,004    23,026    44,884
   Deferred.....................................     7,904      (211)  (10,814)
                                                  --------  --------  --------
                                                  $ 20,908  $ 22,815  $ 34,070
                                                  ========  ========  ========
 
  The following table reconciles the differences between the Federal corporate
statutory rate and the Company's effective income tax rate:
 
<CAPTION>
                                                    YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                  ----------------------------
                                                    1994      1995      1996
                                                  --------  --------  --------
   <S>                                            <C>       <C>       <C>
   Federal corporate statutory rate.............      35.0%     35.0%     35.0%
   State and local income taxes, net of Federal
    tax benefit.................................       2.9       2.6       2.3
   Amortization of excess reorganization value..       5.2       4.5       2.9
   Other........................................      (0.3)     (2.1)     (1.6)
                                                  --------  --------  --------
   Effective income tax rate....................      42.8%     40.0%     38.6%
                                                  ========  ========  ========
</TABLE>
 
                                     F-14
<PAGE>
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  The sources of the tax effects for temporary differences that give rise to
the deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           DECEMBER 31, 1995 DECEMBER 31, 1996
                                           ----------------- -----------------
   <S>                                     <C>               <C>
   Deferred tax assets:
     Employee postretirement benefits
      other than pensions.................     $  10,954         $  3,318
     Expense accruals.....................         9,267           14,251
     Valuation reserves...................         5,147            6,514
     Inventory costs capitalized..........         1,785            2,550
     Other................................           919            1,063
                                               ---------         --------
       Total gross deferred tax assets....        28,072           27,696
     Valuation allowance..................           --               --
                                               ---------         --------
       Total net deferred tax assets......        28,072           27,696
   Deferred tax liabilities:
     Fair value adjustments...............       (84,263)         (77,645)
     Employee pension plans...............        (1,990)            (697)
     Depreciation.........................        (9,029)          (7,158)
     Other................................        (8,350)          (9,784)
                                               ---------         --------
       Total deferred tax liabilities.....      (103,632)         (95,284)
                                               ---------         --------
       Net deferred tax liabilities.......     $ (75,560)        $(67,588)
                                               =========         ========
</TABLE>
 
  The net deferred tax liabilities are included in the consolidated balance
sheets as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          DECEMBER 31, 1995 DECEMBER 31, 1996
                                          ----------------- -----------------
   <S>                                    <C>               <C>
   Prepaid expenses and other current
    assets...............................     $  14,328         $ 19,783
   Other long-term liabilities...........       (89,888)         (87,371)
                                              ---------         --------
                                              $ (75,560)        $(67,588)
                                              =========         ========
</TABLE>
 
11. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
 
  The Company sponsors or contributes to retirement plans covering
substantially all employees. The total cost of all plans for 1994, 1995 and
1996 was $6,303, $7,070 and $9,450, respectively.
 
 Company-Sponsored Defined Benefit Plans
 
  Annual cost for defined benefit plans is determined using the projected unit
credit actuarial method. Prior service cost is amortized on a straight-line
basis over the average remaining service period of employees expected to
receive benefits.
 
                                     F-15
<PAGE>
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
  It is the Company's practice to fund pension costs to the extent that such
costs are tax deductible and in accordance with ERISA. The assets of the
various plans include corporate equities, government securities, corporate
debt securities and insurance contracts. The table below summarizes the funded
status of the Company-sponsored defined benefit plans.
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                           DECEMBER 31, 1995 DECEMBER 31, 1996
                                           ----------------- -----------------
   <S>                                     <C>               <C>
   Actuarial present value of benefit
    obligations:
     Vested benefit obligation............     $ 217,879         $ 230,456
                                               =========         =========
     Accumulated benefit obligation.......     $ 222,256         $ 237,512
                                               =========         =========
     Projected benefit obligation.........     $ 254,815         $ 262,667
   Plan assets at fair value..............       252,810           279,054
                                               ---------         ---------
   Plan assets in excess of (less than)
    projected benefit obligations.........        (2,005)           16,387
   Unrecognized net (gain) loss...........         5,211           (13,975)
   Unrecognized prior service cost........         1,267             1,021
                                               ---------         ---------
   Prepaid pension cost...................     $   4,473         $   3,433
                                               =========         =========
</TABLE>
 
  Net periodic pension cost for 1994, 1995 and 1996 includes the following
components:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                 ----------------------------
                                                   1994      1995      1996
                                                 --------  --------  --------
   <S>                                           <C>       <C>       <C>
   Service cost-benefits earned during the
    period...................................... $  4,758  $  3,544  $  6,792
   Interest cost on the projected benefit
    obligation..................................   13,682    17,005    18,102
   Actual return on plan assets.................     (159)  (49,272)  (41,006)
   Net amortization and deferral................  (16,297)   31,566    20,366
                                                 --------  --------  --------
   Net periodic pension cost.................... $  1,984  $  2,843  $  4,254
                                                 ========  ========  ========
</TABLE>
 
  Employees are covered primarily by noncontributory plans, funded by Company
contributions to trust funds, which are held for the sole benefit of
employees. Monthly retirement benefits are based upon service and pay with
employees becoming vested upon completion of five years of service.
 
  The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets was 8.0%-9.5% in 1994,
8.5% in 1995 and 8.5% in 1996. Measurement of the projected benefit obligation
was based upon a weighted average discount rate of 8.0%, 7.25% and 7.25% and a
long-term rate of compensation increase of 4.5%, 4.5% and 4.5% for 1994, 1995
and 1996, respectively.
 
 Other Retirement Plans and Benefits
 
  In addition to defined benefit plans, the Company makes contributions to a
defined contribution plan and sponsors employee savings plans. The cost of
these plans is included in the total cost for all plans reflected above.
 
  In 1996, Thomasville discontinued postretirement medical benefits for future
retirees. The accrued postretirement benefit obligation as of December 31,
1995 of $31,906 was primarily due to the acquisition of Thomasville;
therefore, the elimination of the benefit was recorded as an adjustment to
excess of cost over net assets acquired.
 
                                     F-16
<PAGE>
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
12. LEASE COMMITMENTS
 
  Certain of the Company's real properties and equipment are operated under
lease agreements expiring at various dates through the year 2005. Leases
covering equipment generally require, in addition to stated minimums,
contingent rentals based on usage. Generally, the leases provide for renewal
for various periods at stipulated rates.
 
  Rental expense under operating leases was as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                         YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                         -----------------------
                                                          1994    1995    1996
                                                         ------- ------- -------
   <S>                                                   <C>     <C>     <C>
   Basic rentals........................................ $11,553 $11,516 $13,470
   Contingent rentals...................................     385     779   1,364
                                                         ------- ------- -------
                                                          11,938  12,295  14,834
   Less sublease rentals................................      54      54      76
                                                         ------- ------- -------
                                                         $11,884 $12,241 $14,758
                                                         ======= ======= =======
</TABLE>
 
  Future minimum lease payments under operating leases, reduced by minimum
rentals from subleases of $491 at December 31, 1996, aggregate $39,691. Annual
minimum payments under operating leases are $12,370, $10,351, $7,817, $5,087
and $2,327 for 1997 through 2001, respectively.
 
13. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
 
  The Company considers the carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents,
receivables and accounts payable to approximate fair value because of the
short maturity of these financial instruments.
 
  Amounts outstanding under the Secured Credit Agreement and Receivables
Securitization Facility are also considered to be carried on the financial
statements at their estimated fair values because they were entered into
recently and both accrue interest at rates which generally fluctuate with
interest rate trends.
 
  Amounts outstanding under the other long-term debt is considered special
purpose financing as an incentive to acquire specific real estate and for
settlement of certain claims. Accordingly, the Company believes the carrying
amounts approximate fair value given the circumstances under which such
financings were acquired.
 
  The fair value of the interest rate swap agreements at December 31, 1996 is
approximately $5.0 million. The fair value of the interest rate swap
agreements is based upon market quotes from the counterparties.
 
14. GAIN ON INSURANCE SETTLEMENT
 
  On November 20, 1994, an explosion and fire destroyed a particleboard plant
owned and operated by the Company. During 1995, the Company rebuilt the plant
with proceeds received from the insurance settlement. As a result thereof, a
gain on insurance settlement, totaling $7,882 (representing the insurance
proceeds received minus the book value of the assets destroyed), was recorded
during the fourth quarter of 1995. The gain includes all costs associated with
the claim with no further expenses or liability anticipated.
 
15. LITIGATION
 
  The Company is or may become a defendant in a number of pending or
threatened legal proceedings in the ordinary course of business. In the
opinion of management, the ultimate liability, if any, of the Company from all
such proceedings will not have a material adverse effect upon the consolidated
financial position or results of operations of the Company and its
subsidiaries.
 
                                     F-17
<PAGE>
 
                      FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
            NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS--(CONTINUED)
 
16. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)
 
  Following is a summary of unaudited quarterly information:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                              FIRST        SECOND        THIRD        FOURTH
                             QUARTER       QUARTER      QUARTER      QUARTER
                          ------------- ------------- ------------  ----------
<S>                       <C>           <C>           <C>           <C>
Year ended December 31,
 1995:
  Net sales.............. $     285,904 $     250,336 $    258,626  $  279,023
  Gross profit...........        76,349        67,399       70,557      76,932
  Net earnings:
    Continuing
     operations..........         7,743         5,487        6,196      14,797
    Extraordinary item...           --            --           --       (5,815)
      Total.............. $       7,743 $       5,487 $      6,196  $    8,982
  Net earnings per common
   share--primary:
    Continuing
     operations.......... $        0.15 $        0.11 $       0.12  $     0.29
    Extraordinary item...           --            --           --        (0.11)
      Total.............. $        0.15 $        0.11 $       0.12  $     0.18
  Net earnings per common
   share--fully diluted:
    Continuing
     operations.......... $        0.15 $        0.11 $       0.12  $     0.27
    Extraordinary item...           --            --           --        (0.11)
      Total.............. $        0.15 $        0.11 $       0.12  $     0.16
  Common stock price
   range (High-Low)...... $ 7 1/8-6 1/8 $ 6 7/8-5 3/4 $8 1/8-5 3/4  $  9 1/8-7
                          ============= ============= ============  ==========
Year ended December 31,
 1996:
  Net sales.............. $     423,947 $     420,742 $    417,921  $  434,185
  Gross profit...........       105,333       108,446      107,067     110,627
  Net earnings:
    Continuing
     operations..........        10,847        11,621       14,325      17,429
    Extraordinary item...           --            --        (7,417)        --
      Total.............. $      10,847 $      11,621 $      6,908  $   17,429
  Net earnings per common
   share--primary and
   fully diluted:
    Continuing
     operations.......... $        0.19 $        0.18 $       0.22  $     0.27
    Extraordinary item...           --            --  $      (0.11)        --
      Total.............. $        0.19 $        0.18 $       0.11  $     0.27
  Common stock price
   range (High-Low)...... $10 1/8-8 3/8 $12 1/8-9 1/8   $14 5/8-10  $14 7/8-12
                          ============= ============= ============  ==========
</TABLE>
 
  The Company has not paid cash dividends on its common stock during the two
years ended December 31, 1996. The closing market price of the Company's common
stock on December 31, 1996 was $14.00 per share.
 
                                      F-18
<PAGE>
 
                      FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                           CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
                                  (UNAUDITED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                             MARCH 31, 1997
                                                         ----------------------
                                                         (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                      <C>
                         ASSETS
Current assets:
  Cash and cash equivalents.............................       $   18,663
  Receivables, less allowance of $19,276................          300,864
  Inventories (Note 2)..................................          288,052
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets.............           25,378
                                                               ----------
    Total current assets................................          632,957
                                                               ----------
Property, plant and equipment...........................          433,894
  Less accumulated depreciation.........................          135,288
                                                               ----------
    Net property, plant and equipment...................          298,606
Intangible assets.......................................          340,713
Other assets............................................           16,355
                                                               ----------
                                                               $1,288,631
                                                               ==========
          LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
  Accrued interest expense..............................       $    6,103
  Accounts payable and other accrued expenses...........          147,572
                                                               ----------
    Total current liabilities...........................          153,675
Long-term debt..........................................          567,800
Other long-term liabilities.............................          132,919
Shareholders' equity:
  Preferred stock, authorized 10,000,000 shares, no par
   value--issued, none..................................           --
  Common stock, authorized 100,000,000 shares, $1.00
   stated value (no par value)-- issued 61,467,066
   shares at March 31, 1997.............................           61,467
  Paid-in capital.......................................          276,040
  Retained earnings.....................................           96,730
                                                               ----------
    Total shareholders' equity..........................          434,237
                                                               ----------
                                                               $1,288,631
                                                               ==========
</TABLE>
 
 
          See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      F-19
<PAGE>
 
                      FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                                  (UNAUDITED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                          THREE MONTHS ENDED
                                                               MARCH 31,
                                                        -----------------------
                                                           1996        1997
                                                        ----------- -----------
                                                        (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS,
                                                         EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)
<S>                                                     <C>         <C>
Net sales.............................................. $   423,947 $   449,861
Costs and expenses:
  Cost of operations...................................     308,883     326,187
  Selling, general and administrative expenses.........      70,204      73,511
  Depreciation and amortization........................      14,178      14,596
                                                        ----------- -----------
Earnings from operations...............................      30,682      35,567
Interest expense.......................................      13,715       9,089
Other income, net......................................         747         872
                                                        ----------- -----------
Earnings before income tax expense.....................      17,714      27,350
Income tax expense.....................................       6,867      10,291
                                                        ----------- -----------
Net earnings........................................... $    10,847 $    17,059
                                                        =========== ===========
Net earnings per common share:
  Net earnings per common share--primary............... $      0.19 $      0.27
  Net earnings per common share--fully diluted......... $      0.19 $      0.27
</TABLE>
 
 
          See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      F-20
<PAGE>
 
                      FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                                  (UNAUDITED)
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                     THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH
                                                               31,
                                                     --------------------------
                                                         1996         1997
                                                     ------------  ------------
                                                      (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
<S>                                                  <C>           <C>
Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
  Net earnings...................................... $     10,847  $    17,059
  Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash
   provided by operating activities:
    Depreciation of property, plant and equipment...       11,084       11,581
    Amortization of intangible and other assets.....        3,094        3,015
    Noncash interest expense........................          617          276
    Increase in receivables.........................       (8,011)     (17,447)
    Increase (decrease) in inventories..............          198       (6,945)
    Increase in prepaid expenses and intangible and
     other assets...................................       (4,672)      (2,501)
    Increase in accounts payable, accrued interest
     expense and other accrued expenses.............       21,496        9,069
    Increase (decrease) in net deferred tax
     liabilities....................................        1,740       (1,253)
    Increase in other long-term liabilities.........          892        1,948
                                                     ------------  -----------
  Net cash provided by operating activities.........       37,285       14,802
                                                     ------------  -----------
Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
  Proceeds from the disposal of assets..............        1,836           20
  Additions to property, plant and equipment........       (7,298)      (8,245)
                                                     ------------  -----------
  Net cash used by investing activities.............       (5,462)      (8,225)
                                                     ------------  -----------
Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
  Additions to long-term debt.......................          --        10,000
  Payments of long-term debt........................     (109,004)     (14,800)
  Proceeds from the sale of common stock............       81,335          --
  Proceeds from the issuance of common stock........            6          274
  Payments for the repurchase of common stock
   warrants.........................................          --        (2,753)
                                                     ------------  -----------
  Net cash used by financing activities.............      (27,663)      (7,279)
                                                     ------------  -----------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash
 equivalents........................................        4,160         (702)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period....       26,412       19,365
                                                     ------------  -----------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period.......... $     30,572  $    18,663
                                                     ============  ===========
Supplemental Disclosure:
  Cash payments for income taxes, net............... $        231  $     5,454
                                                     ============  ===========
  Cash payments for interest expense................ $     11,243  $     9,274
                                                     ============  ===========
</TABLE>
 
          See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
 
                                      F-21
<PAGE>
 
                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                  NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                  (UNAUDITED)
 
(1) The financial statements are unaudited but include all adjustments
    (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) which the management of the
    Company considers necessary for a fair presentation of the results of the
    period.
 
(2) Inventories are summarized as follows:
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              MARCH 31, 1997
                                                          ----------------------
                                                          (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
      <S>                                                 <C>
      Finished products..................................        $133,878
      Work-in-process....................................          54,385
      Raw materials......................................          99,789
                                                                 --------
                                                                 $288,052
                                                                 ========
</TABLE>
 
 
(3) In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued
    Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128 (SFAS No. 128)
    "Earnings Per Share" (EPS). SFAS No. 128 establishes standards for
    computing and presenting earnings per share. It also requires dual
    presentation of basic and diluted EPS on the face of the income statement
    for all entities with complex capital structures and requires a
    reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of the basic EPS
    computation to the numerator and denominator of the diluted EPS
    computation. SFAS No. 128 is effective for financial statements for both
    interim and annual periods ending after December 15, 1997, and early
    application is not permitted. The Company believes the adoption of this
    accounting standard will not have a material impact on earnings per share.
 
                                     F-22
<PAGE>
 
                                    PART II
 
                    INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
 
14. OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION
 
  The following table shows the estimated expenses of the issuance and
distribution of the securities offered hereby, other than underwriting
discounts and commissions:
 
<TABLE>
      <S>                                                            <C>
      Securities and Exchange Commission filing fee................. $   58,896
      National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. filing fee...     19,936
      Printing expenses.............................................    450,000
      Legal fees and expenses.......................................    100,000
      Accounting fees and expenses..................................    100,000
      Blue sky filing fees and expenses (including counsel fees)....      5,000
      Miscellaneous expenses........................................    266,168
                                                                     ----------
        Total....................................................... $1,000,000
                                                                     ==========
</TABLE>
 
15. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
 
  Section 145 ("Section 145") of the Delaware General Corporation Law permits
indemnification of directors, officers, agents and controlling persons of a
corporation under certain conditions and subject to certain limitations.
Section 145 empowers a corporation to indemnify any person who was or is a
party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or
completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative
or investigative, by reason of the fact that such person is or was a director,
officer or agent of the corporation or another enterprise if serving at the
request of the corporation. Depending on the character of the proceeding, a
corporation may indemnify against expenses (including attorneys' fees),
judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably
incurred in connection with such action, suit or proceeding if the person
indemnified acted in good faith and in a manner such person reasonably
believed to be in or not opposed to, the best interests of the corporation,
and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable
cause to believe such person's conduct was unlawful. In the case of an action
by or in the right of the corporation, no indemnification may be made with
respect to any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been
adjudged to be liable to the corporation unless and only to the extent that
the Court of Chancery or the court in which such action or suit was brought
shall determine that despite the adjudication of liability such person is
fairly and reasonably entitled to indemnity for such expenses which the court
shall deem proper. Section 145 further provides that to the extent a director
or officer of a corporation has been successful in the defense of any action,
suit or proceeding referred to above or in the defense of any claim, issue or
matter therein, such person shall be indemnified against expenses (including
attorneys' fees) actually and reasonably incurred by such person in connection
therewith.
 
  The Company's By-laws contain provisions for indemnification of directors,
officers, employees and agents which are substantially the same as Section 145
and also permit the Company to purchase insurance on behalf of any such person
against any liability asserted against such person and incurred by such person
in any such capacity, or arising out of such person's status as such, whether
or not the Company would have the power to indemnify such person against such
liability under the foregoing provision of the By-laws. The Company maintains
such insurance.
 
  Certain of the directors and former directors of the Company have entered
into and are the beneficiaries of indemnification agreements with the Company.
These agreements provide indemnity protection for such persons which is
substantially the same as that authorized by the Delaware General Corporation
Law and provided for in the Company's By-Laws.
 
 
                                     II-1
<PAGE>
 
  The Underwriting Agreement, included as Exhibit 1 hereto, provides that each
of the Underwriters will indemnify the directors and officers of the Company
against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act
1933, as amended.
 
ITEM 16. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
 
 EXHIBITS
 
<TABLE>   
 <C>   <S>
  1(a) Form of U.S. Underwriting Agreement.*
  1(b) Form of International Underwriting Agreement.*
  3(a) Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, as amended
       (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to the Company's Report on
       Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1996).
  3(b) By-Laws of the Company revised and amended to April 23, 1996
       (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(b) to the Company's Report on
       Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1996).
  5    Opinion of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP as to the validity of the
        securities.**
  23.1 Consents of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP.*
  23.2 Consent of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP (included in Exhibit 5).**
  24   Powers of Attorney.**
</TABLE>    
- --------
* Filed herewith.
   
** Previously filed.     
 
ITEM 17. UNDERTAKINGS
 
  The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of
determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of the
registrant's annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or Section 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (and, where applicable, each filing of an
employee benefit plan, annual report pursuant to Section 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934) that is incorporated by reference in the
registration statement shall be deemed to be a new registration statement
relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such
securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering
thereof.
 
  Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act
of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the
registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the undersigned
registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange
Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the
Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for
indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the
registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling
person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or
proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in
connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless
in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling
precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether
such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act
and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
 
  The registrant hereby undertakes that:
 
    (1) For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act of
  1933, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of
  this registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a
  form of prospectus filed by the registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or
  (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this
  registration statement as of the time it was declared effective.
 
    (2) For the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act
  of 1933, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus
  shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the
  securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that
  time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
 
                                     II-2
<PAGE>
 
                                  SIGNATURES
   
  PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED, THE
REGISTRANT CERTIFIES THAT IT HAS REASONABLE GROUNDS TO BELIEVE THAT IT MEETS
ALL OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR FILING ON FORM S-3 AND HAS DULY CAUSED THIS
REGISTRATION STATEMENT TO BE SIGNED ON ITS BEHALF BY THE UNDERSIGNED,
THEREUNTO DULY AUTHORIZED, IN THE COUNTY OF ST. LOUIS, STATE OF MISSOURI ON
JUNE 24, 1997.     
 
                                          FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
 
                                               /s/ Wilbert G. Holliman, Jr.
                                          By: _________________________________
                                                 WILBERT G. HOLLIMAN, JR.
                                               PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE
                                                          OFFICER
 
  PURSUANT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, THIS
REGISTRATION STATEMENT HAS BEEN SIGNED BY THE FOLLOWING PERSONS IN THE
CAPACITIES INDICATED ON THE DATES INDICATED BELOW.
 
              SIGNATURE                        TITLE                 DATE
 
    /s/ Wilbert G. Holliman, Jr.       President, Chief            
- -------------------------------------   Executive Officer       June 24, 1997
      WILBERT G. HOLLIMAN, JR.          and Director                     
 
         /s/ David P. Howard           Vice-President and          
- -------------------------------------   Chief Financial         June 24, 1997
           DAVID P. HOWARD              Officer                          
 
        /s/ Steven W. Alstadt          Controller and Chief        
- -------------------------------------   Accounting Officer      June 24, 1997
          STEVEN W. ALSTADT                                              
 
                  *                    Director
- -------------------------------------
            LEON D. BLACK
 
                  *                    Director
- -------------------------------------
          MICHAEL S. GROSS
 
                  *                    Director
- -------------------------------------
           JOHN J. HANNAN
 
                  *                    Director
- -------------------------------------
          JOSHUA J. HARRIS
 
                  *                    Director
- -------------------------------------
           BRUCE A. KARSH
 
                  *                    Director
- -------------------------------------
           JOHN H. KISSICK
 
                                     II-3
<PAGE>
 
              SIGNATURE                         TITLE                DATE
 
                  *                     Director
- -------------------------------------
          DONALD E. LASATER
 
                  *                     Director
- -------------------------------------
           LEE M. LIBERMAN
 
                  *                     Director
- -------------------------------------
          RICHARD B. LOYND
 
                  *                     Director
- -------------------------------------
            MARC J. ROWAN
 
                  *                     Director
- -------------------------------------
          JOHN J. RYAN, III
 
                  *                     Director
- -------------------------------------
          MICHAEL D. WEINER
 
        /s/ Lynn Chipperfield
*By: ________________________________
  LYNN CHIPPERFIELD, ATTORNEY-IN-
               FACT
           
        JUNE 24, 1997     
 
                                      II-4
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
 NO DEALER, SALESPERSON OR OTHER PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY
INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS OTHER THAN AS CONTAINED HEREIN AND,
IF GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATIONS MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON
AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY THE COMPANY OR ANY OF THE UNDERWRITERS. THIS
PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER
TO PURCHASE ANY SECURITIES OTHER THAN THOSE TO WHICH IT RELATES OR AN OFFER TO,
OR SOLICITATION OF, ANY PERSON IN ANY JURISDICTION WHERE SUCH AN OFFER OR
SOLICITATION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL. NEITHER THE DELIVERY OF THIS PROSPECTUS NOR ANY
SALE HEREUNDER SHALL UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES CREATE ANY IMPLICATION THAT THERE
HAS BEEN NO CHANGE IN THE AFFAIRS OF THE COMPANY OR THAT INFORMATION PROVIDED
HEREIN IS CORRECT AT ANY TIME SUBSEQUENT TO ITS DATE.
 
                                 ------------
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                          PAGE
                                                                          ----
<S>                                                                       <C>
Prospectus Summary.......................................................   3
Risk Factors.............................................................  10
Use of Proceeds..........................................................  12
Price Range of Common Stock and Dividend Policy..........................  12
Capitalization...........................................................  13
Selected Consolidated Historical and Pro Forma Financial Information.....  14
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
 of Operations...........................................................  16
Business.................................................................  23
Management...............................................................  35
Certain Transactions.....................................................  36
Selling Stockholders and Company Repurchase..............................  36
Description of Capital Stock.............................................  37
Certain U.S. Tax Consequences to Non-U.S. Stockholders...................  39
Underwriting.............................................................  42
Legal Matters............................................................  45
Experts..................................................................  45
Available Information....................................................  45
Incorporation of Certain Documents by Reference..........................  45
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements............................... F-1
</TABLE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                               11,000,000 SHARES
 
 
 
                   [LOGO OF FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL]
 
 
                                  COMMON STOCK
 
                    [LOGOS OF BROYHILL, LANE, THOMASVILLE]
 
                                   --------
 
                                   PROSPECTUS
 
                                      , 1997
 
                                   --------
 
                               SMITH BARNEY INC.
                           CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON
                            DILLON, READ & CO. INC.
                              MERRILL LYNCH & CO.
                              SALOMON BROTHERS INC
                           WHEAT FIRST BUTCHER SINGER
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
 
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS SUBJECT TO COMPLETION OR AMENDMENT. A         +
+REGISTRATION STATEMENT RELATING TO THESE SECURITIES HAS BEEN FILED WITH THE   +
+SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION. THESE SECURITIES MAY NOT BE SOLD NOR MAY  +
+OFFERS TO BUY BE ACCEPTED PRIOR TO THE TIME THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT        +
+BECOMES EFFECTIVE. THIS PROSPECTUS SHALL NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR   +
+THE SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY SALE OF THESE      +
+SECURITIES IN ANY STATE IN WHICH SUCH OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE    +
+UNLAWFUL PRIOR TO REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF  +
+ANY SUCH STATE.                                                               +
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
                   
                SUBJECT TO COMPLETION, DATED JUNE 24, 1997     
 
PROSPECTUS
 
                               11,000,000 SHARES
 
                     [FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL LOGO]

                                  COMMON STOCK
 
                                   --------
 
                    [LOGOS OF BROYHILL, LANE, THOMASVILLE]
   
  The 11,000,000 shares of Common Stock, no par value (the "Common Stock"), of
Furniture Brands International, Inc. (the "Company") offered hereby are being
sold by the Selling Stockholders (as defined herein). The Company will not
receive any of the proceeds from the sale of the Common Stock offered hereby.
Of the 11,000,000 shares of Common Stock offered hereby, a total of 2,200,000
shares are being offered hereby in an international offering outside the United
States and Canada (the "International Offering") by the Managers (as defined)
and a total of 8,800,000 shares are being offered by the U.S. Underwriters (as
defined) in a concurrent offering in the United States and Canada (the "U.S.
Offering" and, together with the International Offering, the "Offerings"). The
Common Stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "FBN."
On June 23, 1997, the last reported sale price of the Common Stock on the New
York Stock Exchange was $17 per share.     
 
  Concurrently with the consummation of the Offerings, the Company will
repurchase (i) 10,842,299 shares of Common Stock from the Selling Stockholders
at a price of $15.75 per share, subject to certain adjustments, and (ii)
warrants to purchase 290,821 shares of Common Stock at a price of $8.62 per
warrant (representing $15.75 per share less the $7.13 per share warrant
exercise price), subject to certain adjustments. See "Selling Stockholders and
Company Repurchase."
 
  SEE "RISK FACTORS" BEGINNING ON PAGE 10 FOR A DISCUSSION OF CERTAIN FACTORS
THAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED BY PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS OF THE COMMON STOCK OFFERED
HEREBY.
 
                                   --------
 
THESE SECURITIES  HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED  OR DISAPPROVED BY  THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION  OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR HAS  THE SECURITIES
 AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION  OR ANY  STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION  PASSED UPON THE
 ACCURACY OR  ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION  TO THE CONTRARY
  IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   UNDERWRITING         PROCEEDS TO
                 PRICE TO          DISCOUNT AND         THE SELLING
                  PUBLIC          COMMISSIONS(1)      STOCKHOLDERS(2)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>         <C>                 <C>                 <C>
Per Share         $                    $                  $
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Total(3)       $                    $                  $
</TABLE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 (1)For information regarding indemnification of the U.S. Underwriters and the
  Managers, see "Underwriting."
 (2)Before deducting expenses estimated at $1,000,000 payable by the Company.
 (3) The Selling Stockholders have granted the U.S. Underwriters a 30-day
     option to purchase up to 1,100,000 additional shares of Common Stock
     solely to cover over-allotments, if any. If such option is exercised in
     full, the total Price to Public, Underwriting Discounts and Commissions
     and Proceeds to the Selling Stockholders will be    ,    and    ,
     respectively.
 
                                   --------
  The shares of Common Stock are being offered by the several Managers named
herein, subject to prior sale, when, as and if accepted by them and subject to
certain conditions. It is expected that certificates for the shares of Common
Stock offered hereby will be available for delivery on or about    , 1997, at
the office of Smith Barney Inc., 333 West 34th Street, New York, New York
10001.
 
                                   --------
 
SMITH BARNEY INC.
    CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON
        DILLON, READ & CO. INC.
            MERRILL LYNCH INTERNATIONAL
                SALOMON BROTHERS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
                    WHEAT FIRST BUTCHER SINGER
 
    , 1997
<PAGE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
 NO DEALER, SALESPERSON OR OTHER PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY
INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY REPRESENTATIONS OTHER THAN AS CONTAINED HEREIN AND,
IF GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATIONS MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON
AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY THE COMPANY OR ANY OF THE UNDERWRITERS. THIS
PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO SELL OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER
TO PURCHASE ANY SECURITIES OTHER THAN THOSE TO WHICH IT RELATES OR AN OFFER TO,
OR SOLICITATION OF, ANY PERSON IN ANY JURISDICTION WHERE SUCH AN OFFER OR
SOLICITATION WOULD BE UNLAWFUL. NEITHER THE DELIVERY OF THIS PROSPECTUS NOR ANY
SALE HEREUNDER SHALL UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES CREATE ANY IMPLICATION THAT THERE
HAS BEEN NO CHANGE IN THE AFFAIRS OF THE COMPANY OR THAT INFORMATION PROVIDED
HEREIN IS CORRECT AT ANY TIME SUBSEQUENT TO ITS DATE.
 
                                  -----------
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                          PAGE
                                                                          ----
<S>                                                                       <C>
Prospectus Summary.......................................................   3
Risk Factors.............................................................  10
Use of Proceeds..........................................................  12
Price Range of Common Stock and Dividend Policy..........................  12
Capitalization...........................................................  13
Selected Consolidated Historical and Pro Forma Financial Information.....  14
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
 of Operations...........................................................  16
Business.................................................................  23
Management...............................................................  35
Certain Transactions.....................................................  36
Selling Stockholders and Company Repurchase..............................  36
Description of Capital Stock.............................................  37
Certain U.S. Tax Consequences to Non-U.S. Stockholders...................  39
Underwriting.............................................................  42
Legal Matters............................................................  45
Experts..................................................................  45
Available Information....................................................  45
Incorporation of Certain Documents by Reference..........................  45
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements............................... F-1
</TABLE>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                               11,000,000 SHARES
 
 
 
                   [LOGO OF FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL]
 
 
                                  COMMON STOCK
 
                    [LOGOS OF BROYHILL, LANE, THOMASVILLE]
 
                                    -------
 
                                   PROSPECTUS
 
                                      , 1997
 
                                    -------
 
                               SMITH BARNEY INC.
                           CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON
                            DILLON, READ & CO. INC.
                          MERRILL LYNCH INTERNATIONAL
                     SALOMON BROTHERS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
                           WHEAT FIRST BUTCHER SINGER
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
 
                                 EXHIBIT INDEX
 
<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
 EXHIBIT NO.                         DESCRIPTION                           PAGE
 -----------                         -----------                           ----
 <C>         <S>                                                           <C>
   1(a)      Form of U.S. Underwriting Agreement.*
   1(b)      Form of International Underwriting Agreement.*
   3(a)      Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company
             (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(a) to the Company's
             Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30,
             1996).
   3(b)      By-Laws of the Company revised and amended to April 23,
             1996 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3(b) to the
             Company's Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
             September 30, 1996).
   5         Opinion of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP as to the validity
              of the securities.**
  23.1       Consents of KPMG Peat Marwick LLP.*
  23.2       Consent of Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP (included in Exhibit
              5).**
  24         Powers of Attorney.**
</TABLE>    
- --------
 * Filed herewith.
   
**Previously filed.     

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    Exhibit 1(a)

                                8,800,000 Shares

                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.

                                  Common Stock

                      FORM OF U.S. UNDERWRITING AGREEMENT
                      -----------------------------------

                                                                 June [  ], 1997
SMITH BARNEY INC.
CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON CORPORATION
DILLON, READ & CO. INC.
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED
SALOMON BROTHERS INC
WHEAT, FIRST SECURITIES, INC.

     As Representatives of the Several U.S. Underwriters

c/o  SMITH BARNEY INC.
     388 Greenwich Street
     New York, New York 10013

Dear Sirs:

     Certain stockholders named in Schedule II hereto (the "Selling
Stockholders") of Furniture Brands International, Inc. (the "Company"), propose
to sell an aggregate of 8,800,000 shares (the "Firm Shares") of the common
stock, no par value per share of the Company (the "Common Stock"), to the
several Underwriters named in Schedule I hereto (the "U.S. Underwriters").  The
Selling Stockholders also propose to sell to the U.S. Underwriters, upon the
terms and conditions set forth in Section 2 hereof, up to an additional
1,100,000 shares (the "Additional Shares") of Common Stock.  The Firm Shares and
the Additional Shares are hereinafter collectively referred to as the "Shares".

     It is understood that the Company and the Selling Stockholders are
currently entering into an International Underwriting Agreement, dated the date
hereof (the "International Underwriting Agreement"), providing for the sale of
2,200,000 shares of the Common Stock by the Selling Stockholders (the
"International Shares"), through arrangements with certain underwriters outside
the United States and Canada (the "Managers"), for whom Smith Barney Inc.,
Credit Suisse First Boston (Europe) Limited, Dillon, Read & Co. Inc., Merrill
Lynch International, Salomon Brothers International Limited and Wheat, First
Securities, Inc. are acting as lead managers (the "Lead Managers").  The
International Shares and the Shares, collectively, are herein called the
"Underwritten Shares".
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               2

     The Company and the Selling Stockholders also understand that the
Representatives and the Lead Managers have entered into an agreement (the
"Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and Managers") contemplating the
coordination of certain transactions between the U.S. Underwriters and the
Managers and that, pursuant thereto and subject to the conditions set forth
therein, the U.S. Underwriters may purchase from the Managers a portion of the
International Shares or sell to the Managers a portion of the Shares.  The
Company and the Selling Stockholders understand that any such purchases and
sales between the U.S. Underwriters and the Managers shall be governed by the
Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and Managers and shall not be governed by
the terms of this Agreement or the International Underwriting Agreement.

     The Company and the Selling Stockholders wish to confirm as follows their
respective agreements with you (the "Representatives") and the other several
U.S. Underwriters on whose behalf you are acting, in connection with the several
purchases of the Shares by the U.S. Underwriters.

     1.   Registration Statement and Prospectus.  The Company has prepared and
          -------------------------------------                               
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") in
accordance with the provisions of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and
the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder (collectively, the
"Act"), a registration statement on Form S-3 under the Act (the "registration
statement"), including a prospectus subject to completion relating to the
Underwritten Shares.  The term "Registration Statement" as used in this
Agreement means the registration statement (including all financial schedules
and exhibits), as amended at the time it becomes effective, or, if the
registration statement became effective prior to the execution of this
Agreement, as supplemented or amended prior to the execution of this Agreement.
If it is contemplated, at the time this Agreement is executed, that a post-
effective amendment to the registration statement will be filed and must be
declared effective before the offering of the Shares may commence, the term
"Registration Statement" as used in this Agreement means the registration
statement as amended by said post-effective amendment.  If an abbreviated
registration statement is prepared and filed with the Commission in accordance
with Rule 462(b) under the Act ("a Rule 462(b) Registration Statement"), the
term "Registration Statement" as used in this Agreement includes the Rule 462(b)
Registration Statement.  The term "Prospectuses" as used in this Agreement means
the prospectuses in the form included in the Registration Statement, or, if the
prospectuses included in the Registration Statement omit information in reliance
on Rule 430A under the Act and such information is included in prospectuses
filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Act, the term
"Prospectuses" as used in this Agreement means the prospectuses in the form
included in the Registration Statement as supplemented by the addition of the
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               3

Rule 430A information contained in the prospectuses filed with the Commission
pursuant to Rule 424(b).  The term "Prepricing Prospectuses" as used in this
Agreement means the prospectuses subject to completion in the form included in
the registration statement at the time of the initial filing of the registration
statement with the Commission, and as such prospectuses shall have been amended
from time to time prior to the date of the Prospectuses.  Any reference in this
Agreement to the registration statement, the Registration Statement, any
Prepricing Prospectus or the Prospectuses shall be deemed to refer to and
include the documents incorporated by reference therein pursuant to Item 12 of
Form S-3 under the Act, as of the date of the registration statement, the
Registration Statement, such Prepricing Prospectus or the Prospectuses, as the
case may be, and any reference to any amendment or supplement to the
registration statement, the Registration Statement, any Prepricing Prospectus or
the Prospectuses shall be deemed to refer to and include any documents filed
after such date under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the
"Exchange Act") which, upon filing, are incorporated by reference therein, as
required by paragraph (b) of Item 12 of Form S-3.  As used herein, the term
"Incorporated Documents" means the documents which at the time are incorporated
by reference in the registration statement, the Registration Statement, any
Prepricing Prospectus, the Prospectuses, or any amendment or supplement thereto.

     It is understood that two forms of Prepricing Prospectus and two forms of
Prospectus are to be used in connection with the offering and sale of the
Underwritten Shares:  a Prepricing Prospectus and a Prospectus relating to the
Shares that are to be offered and sold in the United States (as defined herein)
or Canada (as defined herein) to U.S. or Canadian Persons (the "U.S. Prepricing
Prospectus" and the "U.S. Prospectus", respectively), and a Prepricing
Prospectus and a Prospectus relating to the International Shares which are to be
offered and sold outside the United States and Canada to persons other than U.S.
or Canadian Persons (the "International Prepricing Prospectus" and the
"International Prospectus", respectively).  The U.S. Prospectus and the
International Prospectus are herein collectively called the "Prospectuses," and
the U.S. Prepricing Prospectus and the International Prepricing Prospectus are
herein collectively called the "Prepricing Prospectuses".  For purposes of this
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               4

Agreement:  "U.S. or Canadian Person" means any resident or national of the
United States or Canada, any corporation, partnership or other entity created or
organized in or under the laws of the United States or Canada or any estate or
trust the income of which is subject to United States or Canadian income
taxation regardless of the source of its income (other than the foreign branch
of any U.S. or Canadian Person), and includes any United States or Canadian
branch of a person other than a U.S. or Canadian Person; "United States" means
the United States of America (including the states thereof and the District of
Columbia) and its territories, its possessions and other areas subject to its
jurisdiction; and "Canada" means Canada and its territories, its possessions and
other areas subject to its jurisdiction.

     2.   Agreements to Sell and Purchase.  Subject to such adjustments as you
          -------------------------------                                     
may determine in order to avoid fractional shares, each Selling Stockholder
agrees, severally and not jointly, subject to all the terms and conditions set
forth herein, to sell to each U.S. Underwriter and, upon the basis of the
representations, warranties and agreements of the Company and the Selling
Stockholders herein contained and subject to all the terms and conditions set
forth herein, each U.S. Underwriter, severally and not jointly, agrees to
purchase from each Selling Stockholder at a price per share of $[  ] (the
"purchase price per share") the number of Firm Shares which bears the same
proportion to the number of Firm Shares set forth opposite the name of such
Selling Stockholder in Schedule II hereto as the number of Firm Shares set forth
opposite the name of such U.S. Underwriter in Schedule I hereto (or such number
of Firm Shares increased as set forth in Section 12 hereof) bears to the
aggregate number of Firm Shares to be sold by the Selling Stockholders.

     The Selling Stockholders also agree, subject to all the terms and
conditions set forth herein, to sell to the U.S. Underwriters, and, upon the
basis of the representations, warranties and agreements of the Company and the
Selling Stockholders herein contained and subject to all the terms and
conditions set forth herein, the U.S. Underwriters shall have the right to
purchase from the Selling Stockholders, at the purchase price per share,
pursuant to an option (the "over-allotment option") which may be exercised at
any time and from time to time prior to 9:00 P.M., New York City time, on the
30th day after the date of the U.S. Prospectus (or, if such 30th day shall be a
Saturday or Sunday or a holiday, on the next business day thereafter when the
New York Stock Exchange is open for trading), up to an aggregate of 1,100,000
Additional Shares.  Additional Shares may be purchased only for the purpose of
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               5

covering over-allotments made in connection with the offering of the Firm
Shares. Upon any exercise of the over-allotment option, each U.S. Underwriter,
severally and not jointly, agrees to purchase from each Selling Stockholder, and
each Selling Stockholder agrees, severally and not jointly, to sell to each U.S.
Underwriter, the number of Additional Shares (subject to such adjustments as you
may determine in order to avoid fractional shares) which bears the same
proportion to the total number of Additional Shares to be purchased pursuant to
such exercise of the over-allotment option as the number of Firm Shares sold by
such Selling Stockholder to such U.S. Underwriter pursuant to the preceding
paragraph bears to the total number of Firm Shares.

     Each U.S. Underwriter represents, warrants, covenants and agrees that,
except as contemplated under Section 2 of the Agreement Between U.S.
Underwriters and Managers dated the date hereof (as described in the
Prospectuses under "Underwriting"), (i) it is not purchasing any Shares for the
account of anyone other than a U.S. or Canadian Person, (ii) it has not offered
or sold, and will not offer, sell, resell or deliver, directly or indirectly,
any Shares or distribute any U.S. Prospectus outside the United States or Canada
or to anyone other than a U.S. or Canadian Person, and (iii) any offer of Shares
in Canada will be made only pursuant to an exemption from the requirement to
file a prospectus in the relevant province of Canada in which such offer is made
and any such offer will not result in the Company being required to take any
action under any national, provincial and local law in Canada, except for the
filing with the securities regulatory authority of each province in which the
sale of the Shares are made of a trade report in the prescribed form, together
with the applicable fee.

     3.   Terms of Public Offering.  The Company and the Selling Stockholders
          ------------------------                                           
have been advised by you that the U.S. Underwriters propose to make a public
offering of their respective portions of the Shares as soon after the
Registration Statement and this Agreement have become effective as in your
judgment is advisable and initially to offer the Shares upon the terms set forth
in the U.S. Prospectus.

     4.   Delivery of the Shares and Payment Therefor. Delivery to the U.S.
          -------------------------------------------                      
Underwriters of and payment for the Firm Shares shall be made at the office of
Smith Barney Inc., 388 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10013, at 10:00 A.M., New
York City time, on June [  ], 1997 (the "Closing Date").  The place of closing
for the Firm Shares and the Closing Date may be varied by agreement among you,
the Company and the Selling Stockholders.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               6

     Delivery to the U.S. Underwriters of and payment for any Additional Shares
to be purchased by the U.S. Underwriters shall be made at the aforementioned
office of Smith Barney Inc. at such time on such date (the "Option Closing
Date"), which may be the same as the Closing Date but shall in no event be
earlier than the Closing Date nor earlier than two nor later than ten business
days after the giving of the notice hereinafter referred to, as shall be
specified in a written notice from you on behalf of the U.S. Underwriters to the
Selling Stockholders of the U.S. Underwriters' determination to purchase a
number, specified in such notice, of Additional Shares.  The place of closing
for any Additional Shares and the Option Closing Date for such Shares may be
varied by agreement among you, the Company and the Selling Stockholders.

     Certificates for the Firm Shares and for any Additional Shares to be
purchased hereunder shall be registered in such names and in such denominations
as you shall request prior to 9:30 A.M., New York City time, on the second
business day preceding the Closing Date or any Option Closing Date, as the case
may be.  Such certificates shall be made available to you in New York City for
inspection and packaging not later than 9:30 A.M., New York City time, on the
business day next preceding the Closing Date or the Option Closing Date, as the
case may be.  The certificates evidencing the Firm Shares and any Additional
Shares to be purchased hereunder shall be delivered to you on the Closing Date
or the Option Closing Date, as the case may be, against payment of the purchase
price therefor in immediately available funds.

     5.   Agreements of the Company.  The Company agrees with the several U.S.
          -------------------------                                           
Underwriters as follows:

          (a) If, at the time this Agreement is executed and delivered, it is
necessary for the Registration Statement or a post-effective amendment thereto
or any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement to be declared effective before the
offering of the Shares may commence, the Company will endeavor to cause the
Registration Statement or such post-effective amendment to become effective as
soon as possible and will advise you promptly and, if requested by you, will
confirm such advice in writing, when the Registration Statement or such post-
effective amendment has become effective.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               7

          (b) The Company will advise you promptly and, if requested by you,
will confirm such advice in writing: (i) of any request by the Commission for
amendment of or a supplement to the Registration Statement, any Prepricing
Prospectus or the Prospectuses or for additional information; (ii) of the
issuance by the Commission of any stop order suspending the effectiveness of the
Registration Statement or of the suspension of qualification of the Shares for
offering or sale in any jurisdiction or the initiation of any proceeding for
such purpose; and (iii) within the period of time referred to in paragraph (f)
below, of any change in the Company's condition (financial or other), business,
prospects, properties, net worth or results of operations, or of the happening
of any event, which makes any statement of a material fact made in the
Registration Statement or the Prospectuses (as then amended or supplemented)
untrue or which requires the making of any additions to or changes in the
Registration Statement or the Prospectuses (as then amended or supplemented) in
order to state a material fact required by the Act or the regulations thereunder
to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein not
misleading, or of the necessity to amend or supplement the Prospectuses (as then
amended or supplemented) to comply with the Act or any other law.  If at any
time the Commission shall issue any stop order suspending the effectiveness of
the Registration Statement, the Company will make every reasonable effort to
obtain the withdrawal of such order at the earliest possible time.

          (c) The Company will furnish to you, without charge (i) six copies of
the registration statement as originally filed with the Commission and of each
amendment thereto, including financial statements and all exhibits to the
Registration Statement, and of any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement and any
amendment thereto, (ii) such number of conformed copies of the Registration
Statement as originally filed and of each amendment thereto, but without
exhibits, as you may reasonably request, (iii) such number of copies of the
Incorporated Documents, without exhibits, and of any Rule 462(b) Registration
Statement and any amendment thereto, as you may reasonably request, and (iv) six
copies of the exhibits to the Incorporated Documents.

          (d)  The Company will not file any amendment to the Registration
Statement, any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement or amendment thereto, or make
any amendment or supplement to the Prospectuses or, prior to the end of the
period of time referred to in the first sentence in subsection (f) below, file
any document which, upon filing becomes an Incorporated Document, of which you
shall not previously have been advised or to which, after you shall have
received a copy of the document proposed to be filed, you shall reasonably
object.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               8

          (e) Prior to the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Company
has delivered to you, without charge, in such quantities as you have requested,
copies of each form of the U.S. Prepricing Prospectus.  The Company consents to
the use, in accordance with the provisions of the Act and with the securities or
Blue Sky laws of the jurisdictions in which the Shares are offered by the
several U.S. Underwriters and by dealers, prior to the date of the U.S.
Prospectus, of each U.S. Prepricing Prospectus so furnished by the Company.

          (f) As soon after the execution and delivery of this Agreement as
possible and thereafter from time to time for such period as in the opinion of
counsel for the U.S. Underwriters a prospectus is required by the Act to be
delivered in connection with sales by any U.S. Underwriter or dealer, the
Company will expeditiously deliver to each U.S. Underwriter and each dealer,
without charge, as many copies of the U.S. Prospectus (and of any amendment or
supplement thereto) as you may reasonably request.  The Company consents to the
use of the U.S. Prospectus (and of any amendment or supplement thereto) in
accordance with the provisions of the Act and with the securities or Blue Sky
laws of the jurisdictions in which the Shares are offered by the several U.S.
Underwriters and by all dealers to whom Shares may be sold, both in connection
with the offering and sale of the Shares and for such period of time thereafter
as the U.S. Prospectus is required by the Act to be delivered in connection with
sales by any U.S. Underwriter or dealer. If during such period of time any event
shall occur that in the judgment of the Company or in the opinion of counsel for
the U.S. Underwriters is required to be set forth in the U.S. Prospectus (as
then amended or supplemented) or should be set forth therein in order to make
the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were
made, not misleading, or if it is necessary to supplement or amend the U.S.
Prospectus (or to file under the Exchange Act any document which, upon filing,
becomes an Incorporated Document) in order to comply with the Act or any other
law, the Company will forthwith prepare and, subject to the provisions of
paragraph (d) above, file with the Commission an appropriate supplement or
amendment thereto (or to such document), and will expeditiously furnish to the
U.S. Underwriters and dealers a reasonable number of copies thereof.  In the
event that the Company and you, as Representatives of the several U.S.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               9

Underwriters, agree that the U.S. Prospectus should be amended or supplemented,
the Company, if requested by you, will promptly issue a press release announcing
or disclosing the matters to be covered by the proposed amendment or supplement.

          (g) The Company will cooperate with you and with counsel for the U.S.
Underwriters in connection with the registration or qualification of the Shares
for offering and sale by the several U.S. Underwriters and by dealers under the
securities or Blue Sky laws of such jurisdictions as you may designate and will
file such consents to service of process or other documents necessary or
appropriate in order to effect such registration or qualification; provided that
in no event shall the Company be obligated to qualify to do business in any
jurisdiction where it is not now so qualified or to take any action which would
subject it to service of process in suits, other than those arising out of the
offering or sale of the Shares, in any jurisdiction where it is not now so
subject.

          (h) The Company will make generally available to its security holders
a consolidated earnings statement, which need not be audited, covering the
period specified by Section 11(a) of the Act and Rule 158 thereunder, as soon as
reasonably practicable, which consolidated earnings statement shall satisfy the
provisions of Section 11(a) of the Act and Rule 158 thereunder.

          (i) During the period of five years hereafter, the Company will
furnish to you (i) upon your request, at such address as you may specify, as
soon as available, a copy of each report of the Company mailed to stockholders
or filed with the Commission, and (ii) from time to time such other information
concerning the Company as you may reasonably request.

          (j) If this Agreement shall terminate or shall be terminated after
execution pursuant to any provisions hereof (otherwise than pursuant to the
second paragraph of Section 12 hereof or by notice given by you terminating this
Agreement pursuant to Section 12 or Section 13 hereof) or if this Agreement
shall be terminated by the U.S. Underwriters because of any failure or refusal
on the part of the Company or any of the Selling Stockholders to comply with the
terms or fulfill any of the conditions of this Agreement, the Company agrees to
reimburse the Representatives for all out-of-pocket expenses (including
reasonable fees and expenses of counsel for the U.S. Underwriters) incurred by
you in connection herewith.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              10

          (k) If Rule 430A of the Act is employed, the Company will timely file
the Prospectuses pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Act and will advise you of
the time and manner of such filing.

          (l) Except as provided in this Agreement, the Company will not sell,
contract to sell or otherwise dispose of any Common Stock (except shares issued
upon exercises of options outstanding under the Company's 1992 stock option plan
or upon exercise of outstanding warrants) or any securities convertible into or
exercisable or exchangeable for Common Stock, or grant any options (except any
options granted under the Company's 1992 stock option plan) or warrants to
purchase Common Stock, for a period of 90 days after the date of the U.S.
Prospectus, without the prior written consent of Smith Barney Inc.

          (m)  The Company has furnished or will furnish to you "lock-up"
letters, in form and substance satisfactory to you, signed by each of its
current officers and directors listed on Schedule III hereto.

          (n) Except as stated in this Agreement and in the Prepricing
Prospectuses and Prospectuses, the Company has not taken, nor will it take,
directly or indirectly, any action designed to or that might reasonably be
expected to cause or result in stabilization or manipulation of the price of the
Common Stock to facilitate the sale or resale of the Shares.

          (o)  The Company will use all reasonable efforts to satisfy on or
before the Closing Date or any Option Date, as the case may be, all conditions
to the U.S. Underwriters' obligations to purchase the Shares.

     6.   Agreements of the Selling Stockholders.  Each of the Selling
          --------------------------------------                      
Stockholders agrees with the several U.S. Underwriters as follows:

          (a)  Such Selling Stockholder will cooperate to the extent necessary
to cause the registration statement or any post-effective amendment thereto to
become effective at the earliest possible time.

          (b)  Such Selling Stockholder will pay all Federal and other taxes, if
any, on the transfer or sale of such Shares that are sold by the Selling
Stockholder to the U.S. Underwriters.

          (c)  Such Selling Stockholder will do or perform all things required
to be done or performed by the Selling Stockholder prior to the Closing Date or
any Option Closing Date, as the case may be, to satisfy all conditions precedent
to the delivery of the Shares pursuant to this Agreement.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              11

          (d)  Except as provided in this Agreement and in the lock-up letter
referred to in paragraph (e) below, such Selling Stockholder will not sell or
otherwise dispose of any Common Stock for a period of 90 days after the date of
the U.S. Prospectus, without the prior written consent of Smith Barney Inc.

          (e)  Such Selling Stockholder has furnished or will furnish to you a
"lock-up" letter, in form and substance satisfactory to you.

          (f)  Except as stated in this Agreement and the International
Underwriting Agreement and in the Prepricing Prospectuses and the Prospectuses,
such Selling Stockholder has not taken, nor will it take, directly or
indirectly, any action designed to or that might reasonably be expected to cause
or result in stabilization or manipulation of the price of the Common Stock to
facilitate the sale or resale of the Shares.

     7.   Representations and Warranties of the Company. The Company represents
          ---------------------------------------------                        
and warrants to each U.S. Underwriter and to the Selling Stockholders that:

          (a) Each U.S. Prepricing Prospectus included as part of the
registration statement as originally filed or as part of any amendment or
supplement thereto, or filed pursuant to Rule 424 under the Act, complied when
so filed in all material respects with the provisions of the Act; except that
this representation and warranty does not apply to statements in or omissions
from such U.S. Prepricing Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto)
made in reliance upon and in conformity with information relating to any Selling
Stockholder or to any U.S. Underwriter or Manager furnished to the Company in
writing by a U.S. Underwriter through the Representatives or by a Manager
through the Lead Managers or by a Selling Stockholder expressly for use therein.
The Commission has not issued any order preventing or suspending the use of any
Prepricing Prospectus.

          (b) The Company and the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
meet the requirements for using Form S-3 under the Act.  The registration
statement in the form in which it became or becomes effective and also in such
form as it may be when any post-effective amendment thereto or any Rule 462(b)
Registration Statement or amendment thereto shall become effective and the U.S.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              12

Prospectus and any supplement or amendment thereto when filed with the
Commission under Rule 424(b) under the Act, complied or will comply in all
material respects with the provisions of the Act and will not at any such times
contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact
required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not
misleading; except that this representation and warranty does not apply to
statements in or omissions from the Registration Statement or the U.S.
Prospectus made in reliance upon and in conformity with information relating to
any Selling Stockholder or to any U.S. Underwriter or Manager furnished to the
Company in writing by a U.S. Underwriter through the Representatives or by a
Manager through the Lead Managers or by a Selling Stockholder expressly for use
therein.

          (c)  The Incorporated Documents included in the Registration Statement
heretofore filed, when they were filed (or, if any amendment with respect to any
such document was filed, when such amendment was filed), conformed in all
material respects with the requirements of the Exchange Act and the rules and
regulations thereunder, and any further Incorporated Documents so filed will,
when they are filed, conform in all material respects with the requirements of
the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder; no such document when
it was filed (or, if an amendment with respect to any such document was filed,
when such amendment was filed), contained an untrue statement of a material fact
or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary
in order to make the statements therein not misleading; and no such further
document, when it is filed, will contain an untrue statement of a material fact
or will omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary
in order to make the statements therein not misleading.

          (d) All the outstanding shares of Common Stock of the Company,
including the Underwritten Shares, have been duly authorized and validly issued,
are fully paid and nonassessable and are free of any preemptive or similar
rights; and the capital stock of the Company conforms to the description thereof
in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses.

          (e) The Company is a corporation duly organized and validly existing
in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware with full corporate
power and authority to own, lease and operate its properties and to conduct its
business as described in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses, and is
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              13

duly registered and qualified to conduct its business and is in good standing in
each jurisdiction or place where the nature of its properties or the conduct of
its business requires such registration or qualification, except where the
failure so to register or qualify does not, individually or in the aggregate,
have a material adverse effect on the condition (financial or other), business,
properties, net worth or results of operations of the Company and the
Subsidiaries (as hereinafter defined) taken as a whole (a "Material Adverse
Effect").

          (f) All the Company's subsidiaries (collectively, the "Subsidiaries")
are listed in an exhibit to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K which is
incorporated by reference into the Registration Statement (except for certain
immaterial subsidiaries formed since the filing thereof).  Each of Action
Industries, Inc., Broyhill Furniture Industries, Inc., The Lane Company,
Incorporated, and Thomasville Furniture Industries, Inc. (the "Material
Subsidiaries") is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good
standing in the jurisdiction of its incorporation, with full corporate power and
authority to own, lease and operate its properties and to conduct its business
as described in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses, and is duly
registered and qualified to conduct its business and is in good standing in each
jurisdiction or place where the nature of its properties or the conduct of its
business requires such registration or qualification, except where the failure
so to register or qualify does not, individually or in the aggregate, have a
Material Adverse Effect; all the outstanding shares of capital stock of each of
the Material Subsidiaries have been duly authorized and validly issued, are
fully paid and nonassessable, and are owned by the Company, free and clear of
any lien, adverse claim, security interest, equity, or other encumbrance,
except as described in the Registration Statement.

          (g) There are no legal or governmental proceedings pending or, to the
knowledge of the Company, threatened, against the Company or any of the
Subsidiaries, or to which the Company or any of the Subsidiaries, or to which
any of their respective properties is subject, that are required to be described
in the Registration Statement or the Prospectuses but are not described as
required, and there are no agreements, contracts, indentures, leases or other
instruments that are required to be described in the Registration Statement or
the Prospectuses or to be filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement or
any Incorporated Document therein that are not described or filed as required by
the Act or the Exchange Act.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              14

          (h) Neither the Company nor any of the Subsidiaries is in violation of
its certificate or articles of incorporation or by-laws, or other organizational
documents, or of any law, ordinance, administrative or governmental rule or
regulation applicable to the Company or any of the Subsidiaries or of any decree
of any court or governmental agency or body having jurisdiction over the Company
or any of the Subsidiaries, except any violations which will not, individually
or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect, or in default in any
material respect in the performance of any material obligation, agreement or
condition contained in any bond, debenture, note or any other evidence of
indebtedness or in any material agreement, indenture, lease or other instrument
to which the Company or any of the Subsidiaries is a party or by which any of
them or any of their respective properties may be bound (except where any such
default or defaults would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material
Adverse Effect).

          (i) Neither the sale of the Underwritten Shares, the execution,
delivery or performance of this Agreement, the Stock Purchase and Secondary
Offering Agreement dated as of May 27, 1997, among the Company and the Selling
Stockholders (the "Repurchase Agreement"), and the Secured Credit Agreement (as
defined herein) by the Company nor the consummation by the Company of the
transactions contemplated hereby or thereby (i) requires any consent, approval,
authorization or other order of or registration or filing with, any court,
regulatory body, administrative agency or other governmental body, agency or
official (except such as may be required for the registration of the Shares
under the Act and compliance with the securities or Blue Sky laws of various
jurisdictions, both of which have been or will be effected in accordance with
this Agreement) or conflicts or will conflict with or constitutes or will
constitute a breach of, or a default under, the certificate or articles of
incorporation or bylaws, or other organizational documents, of the Company or
any of the Subsidiaries or (ii) conflicts or will conflict with or constitutes
or will constitute a breach of, or a default under, any agreement, indenture,
lease or other instrument to which the Company or any of the Subsidiaries is a
party or by which any of them or any of their respective properties may be
bound, or violates or will violate any statute, law, regulation or filing
(except the securities or Blue Sky laws of the various jurisdictions, as to
which no representation or warranty is made) or judgment, injunction, order or
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              15

decree applicable to the Company or any of the Subsidiaries or any of their
respective properties, or will result in the creation or imposition of any lien,
charge or encumbrance upon any property or assets of the Company or any of the
Subsidiaries pursuant to the terms of any agreement or instrument to which any
of them is a party or by which any of them may be bound or to which any of the
property or assets of any of them is subject.

          (j) The accountants, KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, who have certified or
shall certify the financial statements included or incorporated by reference in
the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement
thereto) are independent public accountants as required by the Act.

          (k) The financial statements, together with related schedules and
notes, included or incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement and
the Prospectuses (and any amendment or supplement thereto), present fairly, in
all material respects, the consolidated financial position, results of
operations and changes in financial position of the Company and the Subsidiaries
on the basis stated in the Registration Statement at the respective dates or for
the respective periods to which they apply; such statements and related
schedules and notes have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles consistently applied throughout the periods involved,
except as disclosed therein; and the other financial and statistical information
and data relating to the Company and the Subsidiaries included or incorporated
by reference in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses (and any
amendment or supplement thereto) are accurately presented in all material
respects and prepared on a basis consistent with such financial statements and
the books and records of the Company and the Subsidiaries.

          (l) The execution and delivery of, and the performance by the Company
of its obligations under, this Agreement, the Repurchase Agreement and the
Secured Credit Agreement have been duly and validly authorized by the Company,
and each of this Agreement, the Repurchase Agreement and the Secured Credit
Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by the Company and constitutes a
valid and legally binding agreement of the Company, enforceable against the
Company in accordance with terms, except as rights to indemnity and contribution
hereunder or thereunder may be limited by federal or state securities laws and
subject to the qualification that the enforceability of the Company's
obligations hereunder or thereunder may be limited by bankruptcy, fraudulent
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              16

conveyance, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, and other laws relating to
or affecting creditors' rights generally, and by general equitable principles.

          (m) Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement and the
Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement thereto), subsequent to the
respective dates as of which such information is given in the Registration
Statement and the Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement thereto), neither
the Company nor any of the Subsidiaries has incurred any liability or
obligation, direct or contingent, or entered into any transaction, not in the
ordinary course of business, that is material to the Company and the
Subsidiaries taken as a whole, and there has not been any change in the capital
stock of the Company, or material increase in the short-term debt or long-term
debt of the Company or any of the Subsidiaries, or any material adverse change,
or any development involving or which may reasonably be expected to involve, a
prospective material adverse change, in the condition (financial or other),
business, net worth or results of operations of the Company and the Subsidiaries
taken as a whole.

          (n) With only such exceptions as would not, individually or in the
aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect, each of the Company and the
Subsidiaries has good and, in the case of real property, marketable title to all
property (real and personal) described in the Prospectuses as being owned by it,
free and clear of all liens, claims, security interests or other encumbrances
except such as are described in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses
or in a document filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement and all the
property described in the Prospectuses as being held under lease by each of the
Company and the Subsidiaries is held by it under valid, subsisting and
enforceable leases.

          (o) The Company has not distributed and, prior to the later to occur
of (i) the Closing Date and (ii) completion of the distribution of the Shares,
will not distribute any offering material in connection with the offering and
sale of the Shares other than the Registration Statement, the Prepricing
Prospectuses, the Prospectuses or other materials, if any, permitted by the Act.

          (p) The Company and each of the Subsidiaries has such material
permits, licenses, franchises and authorizations of governmental or regulatory
authorities ("permits") as are necessary to own its respective properties and to
conduct its business in all material respects in the manner described in the
Prospectuses, subject to such qualifications as may be set forth in the
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              17

Prospectuses; the Company and each of the Subsidiaries has fulfilled and
performed all its material obligations with respect to such permits and no event
has occurred which allows, or after notice or lapse of time would allow,
revocation or termination thereof or results in any other material impairment of
the rights of the holder of any such permit, subject in each case to such
qualification as may be set forth in the Prospectuses; and, except as described
in the Prospectuses, none of such permits contains any restriction that is
materially burdensome to the Company or any of the Subsidiaries.

          (q)  The properties, assets and operations of the Company and its
Subsidiaries comply with all applicable Environmental Laws (as defined below),
except to the extent that failure so to comply would not, individually or in the
aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.  Except as specifically described in
the Prospectuses, none of the property, assets or operations of the Company or
its Subsidiaries is the subject of any investigation by any federal, state,
local or foreign governmental agency evaluating whether any remedial action is
needed to respond to a release of any Hazardous Materials (as defined below)
into the environment or a release of any Hazardous Materials that is in
contravention of any federal, state, local or foreign law, order or regulation,
in each case that is likely to have a Material Adverse Effect, and neither the
Company nor any Subsidiary has received notice of any such investigation.
Except as described in the Prospectuses, neither the Company nor any Subsidiary
has received any notice or claim, nor are there pending, reasonably anticipated
or, to the best knowledge of the Company, threatened lawsuits against any of
them, with respect to violations of an Environmental Law or in connection with
any release of any Hazardous Materials into the environment that, if adversely
determined, could have a Material Adverse Effect.  Except as disclosed in the
Prospectuses, with respect to the business of the Company or its Subsidiaries,
including any previously or currently owned, leased, or used properties or
operations, there are no past, present, or, to the best knowledge of the
Company, reasonably anticipated future events, conditions, circumstances,
activities, practices, incidents, actions or plans that may interfere with or
prevent compliance or continued compliance with the Environmental Laws in any
material respect.  As used herein, "Environmental Laws" means any federal,
state, local or foreign law, common law, doctrine, rule, order, decrees,
judgment, injunction, license, permit or regulation relating to environmental
matters, and "Hazardous Materials" means those substances that are regulated by
or form the basis of liability under any Environmental Laws.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              18

          (r)  The Company and each other person or entity that, together with
the Company, is treated as a single employer under Section 414 of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") (each such person or entity being
an "ERISA Affiliate"), complies in all material respects with the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), and the Code with
respect to each pension plan (as defined in Section 3(2) of ERISA) maintained by
the Company or such ERISA Affiliate, and none of the Company or any of its ERISA
Affiliates has incurred any material liability under Title IV of ERISA to any
pension plan or to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation that has not been
fully paid as of the date hereof.

          (s) The Company maintains a system of internal accounting controls
sufficient to provide reasonable assurances that (i) transactions are executed
in accordance with management's general or specific authorization; (ii)
transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial
statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles and to
maintain accountability for assets; (iii) access to assets is permitted only in
accordance with management's general or specific authorization; and (iv) the
recorded accountability for assets is compared with existing assets at
reasonable intervals and appropriate action is taken with respect to any
differences.

          (t) To the knowledge of the Company, neither the Company nor any of
its Subsidiaries nor any employee or agent of the Company or any Subsidiary has
made any payment of funds of the Company or any Subsidiary or received or
retained any funds in violation of any law, rule or regulation, which payment,
receipt or retention of funds is of a character required to be disclosed in the
Prospectuses.

          (u) The Company and each of the Subsidiaries have filed all material
tax returns required to be filed, which returns are complete and correct in all
material respects, and neither the Company nor any Subsidiary is in default in
the payment of any taxes which were payable pursuant to said returns or any
assessments with respect thereto.

          (v) No holder of any security of the Company has any right (except as
has been satisfied or waived) to require registration of shares of Common Stock
or any other security of the Company because of the filing of the registration
statement or consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              19

          (w) The Company and the Subsidiaries own or possess all patents,
trademarks, trademark registrations, service marks, service mark registrations,
trade names, copyrights, licenses, inventions, trade secrets and rights
described in the Prospectuses as being owned by them or any of them or to the
Company's knowledge necessary for the conduct of their respective businesses,
and the Company is not aware of any claim to the contrary or any challenge by
any other person to the rights of the Company and the Subsidiaries with respect
to the foregoing which will have a Material Adverse Effect.

          (x)  The Company has complied with all provisions of Florida Statutes,
(S)517.075, relating to issuers doing business with Cuba.

     8.   Representations and Warranties of the Selling Stockholders.  Each
          ----------------------------------------------------------       
Selling Stockholder represents and warrants to each U.S. Underwriter and the
Company that:

          (a)  Such Selling Stockholder now has, and on the Closing Date and any
Option Closing Date will have, full legal right, power and authorization, and
any approval required by law, to sell, assign, transfer and deliver such Shares
in the manner provided in this Agreement, and upon delivery of and payment for
such Shares hereunder, the several U.S. Underwriters will acquire valid and
marketable title to such Shares free and clear of any lien, claim, security
interest, or other encumbrance.

          (b)  The execution and delivery of, and the performance by such
Selling Stockholder of its obligations under, this Agreement and the Repurchase
Agreement have been duly and validly authorized by such Selling Stockholder, and
each of this Agreement and the Repurchase Agreement has been duly executed and
delivered by such Selling Stockholder and constitutes a valid and legally
binding agreement of such Selling Stockholder, enforceable against such Selling
Stockholder in accordance with its terms, except as limited by federal or state
securities laws and subject to the qualification that the enforceability of the
Selling Stockholder's obligations hereunder or thereunder may be limited by
bankruptcy, fraudulent conveyance, insolvency reorganization, moratorium, and
other laws relating to or affecting creditors' rights generally, and by general
equitable principles.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              20

          (c)  Neither the sale of the Shares nor the execution, delivery or
performance of this Agreement or the Repurchase Agreement by or on behalf of
such Selling Stockholder nor the consummation by or on behalf of such Selling
Stockholder of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby (i) requires any
consent, approval, authorization or other order of, or registration or filing
with, any court, regulatory body, administrative agency or other governmental
body, agency or official (except such as may be required for the registration of
the Shares under the Act or compliance with the securities or Blue Sky laws of
various jurisdictions), or (ii) conflicts or will conflict with or constitutes
or will constitute a breach of, or a default under, any agreement, indenture,
lease or other instrument to which such Selling Stockholder is a party or by
which such Selling Stockholder is or may be bound, or violates or will violate
any statute, law, regulation or filing or judgment, injunction, order or decree
applicable to such Selling Stockholder, or will result in the creation or
imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon any property or assets of
such Selling Stockholder pursuant to the terms of any agreement or instrument to
which such Selling Stockholder is a party or by which such Selling Stockholder
may be bound or to which any of the property or assets of such Selling
Stockholder is subject.

          (d)  The Registration Statement and the Prospectuses, insofar as they
contain information relating to such Selling Stockholder, do not and will not
contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material
fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein
not misleading.

          (e)  Such Selling Stockholder has not taken, directly or indirectly,
any action designed to or that might reasonably be expected to cause or result
in stabilization or manipulation of the price of the Common Stock to facilitate
the sale or resale of the Shares, except for the lock-up arrangements referred
to in the Prospectuses.

          (f)  Such Selling Stockholder (without undertaking any independent
investigation) does not have any knowledge that the Registration Statement or
the Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement thereto) contains any untrue
statement of a material fact or omits to state any material fact required to be
stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading.

     9.   Indemnification and Contribution.  (a) The Company agrees to indemnify
          --------------------------------                                      
and hold harmless each of you and each other U.S. Underwriter and each person,
if any, who controls any U.S. Underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              21

the Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act from and against any and all losses,
claims, damages, liabilities and expenses (including reasonable costs of
investigation) arising out of or based upon any untrue statement or alleged
untrue statement of a material fact contained in any U.S. Prepricing Prospectus
or in the Registration Statement or the U.S. Prospectus or in any amendment or
supplement thereto, or arising out of or based upon any omission or alleged
omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, except insofar as such
losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses arise out of or are based upon
any untrue statement or omission or alleged untrue statement or omission which
has been made therein or omitted therefrom in reliance upon and in conformity
with the information relating to such U.S. Underwriter or Manager furnished in
writing to the Company by or on behalf of any U.S. Underwriter through you or by
or on behalf of any Manager through a Lead Manager expressly for use in
connection therewith; provided, however, that the indemnification contained in
this paragraph (a) with respect to any U.S. Prepricing Prospectus shall not
inure to the benefit of any U.S. Underwriter (or to the benefit of any person
controlling such U.S. Underwriter) on account of any such loss, claim, damage,
liability or expense arising from the sale of the Shares by such U.S.
Underwriter to any person if a copy of the U.S. Prospectus shall not have been
delivered or sent to such person within the time required by the Act and the
regulations thereunder, and the untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or
omission or alleged omission of a material fact contained in such U.S.
Prepricing Prospectus was corrected in the U.S. Prospectus, provided that the
Company has delivered the U.S. Prospectus to the several U.S. Underwriters in
requisite quantity on a timely basis to permit such delivery or sending.  The
foregoing indemnity agreement shall be in addition to any liability which the
Company may otherwise have.

          (b)  Each Selling Stockholder agrees, severally and not jointly, to
indemnify and hold harmless you and each other U.S. Underwriter and each person,
if any, who controls any U.S. Underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of
the Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act with the same exceptions and to the
same extent as the foregoing indemnity from the Company to each U.S.
Underwriter, but only with respect to information relating to such Selling
Stockholder furnished in writing by or on behalf of such Selling Stockholder
expressly for use in the Registration Statement, the U.S. Prospectus or any U.S.
Prepricing Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto.  The foregoing
indemnity agreement shall be in addition to any liability which any Selling
Stockholder may otherwise have.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              22

          (c) If any action, suit or proceeding shall be brought against any
U.S. Underwriter or any person controlling any U.S. Underwriter in respect of
which indemnity may be sought against the Company, any Selling Stockholder or
both, such U.S. Underwriter or such controlling person shall promptly notify in
writing the parties against whom indemnification is being sought (the
"indemnifying parties"), and such indemnifying parties shall assume the defense
thereof, including the employment of counsel and payment of all fees and
expenses.  Such U.S. Underwriter or any such controlling person shall have the
right to employ separate counsel in any such action, suit or proceeding and to
participate in the defense thereof, but the fees and expenses of such counsel
shall be at the expense of such U.S. Underwriter or such controlling person
unless (i) the indemnifying parties have agreed in writing to pay such fees and
expenses, (ii) the indemnifying parties have failed to assume the defense and
employ counsel, or (iii) the named parties to any such action, suit or
proceeding (including any impleaded parties) include both such U.S. Underwriter
or such controlling person and the indemnifying parties and such U.S.
Underwriter or such controlling person shall have been advised by its counsel in
writing, with a copy furnished to the Company upon request, that representation
of such indemnified party and the indemnifying parties by the same counsel would
be inappropriate under applicable standards of professional conduct (whether or
not such representation by the same counsel has been proposed) due to actual or
potential differing interests between them (in which case the indemnifying
parties shall not have the right to assume the defense of such action, suit or
proceeding on behalf of such U.S. Underwriter or such controlling person).  It
is understood, however, that the indemnifying parties shall, in connection with
any one such action, suit or proceeding or separate but substantially similar or
related actions, suits or proceedings in the same jurisdiction arising out of
the same general allegations or circumstances, be liable for the reasonable fees
and expenses of only one separate firm of attorneys (in addition to any local
counsel) at any time for all such U.S. Underwriters and controlling persons not
having actual or potential differing interests with you or among themselves,
which firm shall be designated in writing by Smith Barney Inc., and that all
such fees and expenses shall be reimbursed as they are incurred.  The
indemnifying parties shall not be liable for any settlement of any such action,
suit or proceeding effected without its written consent, but if settled with
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              23

such written consent, or if there be a final judgment for the plaintiff in any
such action, suit or proceeding, the indemnifying parties agree to indemnify and
hold harmless any U.S. Underwriter, to the extent provided in the preceding
paragraph, and any such controlling person from and against any loss, claim,
damage, liability or expense by reason of such settlement or judgment.

          (d) Each U.S. Underwriter agrees, severally and not jointly, to
indemnify and hold harmless the Company, its directors, its officers who sign
the Registration Statement, any person who controls the Company within the
meaning of Section 15 of the Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act and the
Selling Stockholders, to the same extent as the foregoing indemnity from the
Company and the Selling Stockholders to each U.S. Underwriter, but only with
respect to information relating to such U.S. Underwriter furnished in writing by
or on behalf of such U.S. Underwriter through you expressly for use in the
Registration Statement, the U.S. Prospectus or any U.S. Prepricing Prospectus,
or any amendment or supplement thereto.  If any action, suit or proceeding shall
be brought against the Company, any of its directors, any such officer, any such
controlling person or any Selling Stockholder based on the Registration
Statement, the U.S. Prospectus or any U.S. Prepricing Prospectus, or any
amendment or supplement thereto, and in respect of which indemnity may be sought
against any U.S. Underwriter pursuant to this paragraph (d), such U.S.
Underwriter shall have the rights and duties given to the Company and the
Selling Stockholders by paragraph (c) above (except that if the Company or the
Selling Stockholders shall have assumed the defense thereof such U.S.
Underwriter shall not be required to do so, but may employ separate counsel
therein and participate in the defense thereof, but the fees and expenses of
such counsel shall be at such U.S. Underwriter's expense), and the Company, its
directors, any such officer, any such controlling person and the Selling
Stockholders shall have the rights and duties given to the U.S. Underwriters by
paragraph (c) above.  The foregoing indemnity agreement shall be in addition to
any liability which any U.S. Underwriter may otherwise have.

          (e) If the indemnification provided for in this Section 9 is
unavailable to an indemnified party under paragraphs (a), (b) or (d) hereof in
respect of any losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses referred to
therein, then an indemnifying party, in lieu of indemnifying such indemnified
party, shall contribute to the amount paid or payable by such indemnified party
as a result of such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses (i) in such
proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received by the
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              24

Company and the Selling Stockholders on the one hand and the U.S. Underwriters
on the other hand from the offering of the Shares, or (ii) if the allocation
provided by clause (i) above is not permitted by applicable law, in such
proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only the relative benefits referred
to in clause (i) above but also the relative fault of the Company and the
Selling Stockholders on the one hand and the U.S. Underwriters on the other in
connection with the statements or omissions that resulted in such losses,
claims, damages, liabilities or expenses, as well as any other relevant
equitable considerations.  The relative benefits received by the Company and the
Selling Stockholders on the one hand and the U.S. Underwriters on the other
shall be deemed to be in the same proportion as the total net proceeds from the
offering (before deducting expenses) received by the Selling Stockholders bear
to the total underwriting discounts and commissions received by the U.S.
Underwriters, in each case as set forth in the table on the cover page of the
U.S. Prospectus; provided that, in the event that the U.S. Underwriters shall
have purchased any Additional Shares hereunder, any determination of the
relative benefits received by the Company, the Selling Stockholders or the U.S.
Underwriters from the offering of the Shares shall include the net proceeds
(before deducting expenses) received by the Selling Stockholders, and the
underwriting discounts and commissions received by the U.S. Underwriters, from
the sale of such Additional Shares, in each case computed on the basis of the
respective amounts set forth in the notes to the table on the cover page of the
U.S. Prospectus.  The relative fault of the Company and the Selling Stockholders
on the one hand and the U.S. Underwriters on the other hand shall be determined
by reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or alleged untrue
statement of a material fact or the omission or alleged omission to state a
material fact relates to information supplied by the Company and the Selling
Stockholders on the one hand or by the U.S. Underwriters on the other hand and
the parties' relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity
to correct or prevent such statement or omission.

          (f) The Company, the Selling Stockholders and the U.S. Underwriters
agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to this
Section 9 were determined by a pro rata allocation (even if the U.S.
Underwriters were treated as one entity for such purpose) or by any other method
of allocation that does not take account of the equitable considerations
referred to in paragraph (e) above.  The amount paid or payable by an
indemnified party as a result of the losses, claims, damages, liabilities and
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              25

expenses referred to in paragraph (e) above shall be deemed to include, subject
to the limitations set forth above, any legal or other expenses reasonably
incurred by such indemnified party in connection with investigating any claim or
defending any such action, suit or proceeding. Notwithstanding the provisions of
this Section 9, no U.S. Underwriter shall be required to contribute any amount
in excess of the amount by which the total price of the Shares underwritten by
it and distributed to the public exceeds the amount of any damages which such
U.S. Underwriter has otherwise been required to pay by reason of such untrue or
alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission. No person guilty of
fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the Act)
shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty of such
fraudulent misrepresentation.  The U.S. Underwriters' obligations to contribute
pursuant to this Section 9 are several in proportion to the respective numbers
of Firm Shares set forth opposite their names in Schedule I hereto (or such
numbers of Firm Shares increased as set forth in Section 12 hereof) and not
joint.

          (g)  No indemnifying party shall, without the prior written consent of
the indemnified party, effect any settlement of any pending or threatened
action, suit or proceeding in respect of which any indemnified party is or could
have been a party and indemnity could have been sought hereunder by such
indemnified party, unless such settlement includes an unconditional release of
such indemnified party from all liability on claims that are the subject matter
of such action, suit or proceeding.

          (h) Any losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses for which an
indemnified party is entitled to indemnification or contribution under this
Section 9 shall be paid by the indemnifying party to the indemnified party as
such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses are incurred.  The
indemnity and contribution agreements contained in this Section 9 and the
representations and warranties of the Company and the Selling Stockholders set
forth in this Agreement shall remain operative and in full force and effect,
regardless of (i) any investigation made by or on behalf of any U.S. Underwriter
or any person controlling any U.S. Underwriter, the Company, its directors or
officers or the Selling Stockholders, any director, officer or partner of a
Selling Stockholder or any person controlling the Company or any Selling
Stockholder, (ii) acceptance of any Shares and payment therefor hereunder, and
(iii) any termination of this Agreement.  A successor to any U.S. Underwriter or
any person controlling any U.S. Underwriter, or to the Company, its directors or
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              26

officers, or to a Selling Stockholder, any director, officer or partner of a
Selling Stockholder or any person controlling the Company or any Selling
Stockholder shall be entitled to the benefits of the indemnity, contribution and
reimbursement agreements contained in this Section 9.

     10.  Conditions of U.S. Underwriters' Obligations.  The several obligations
          --------------------------------------------                          
of the U.S. Underwriters to purchase the Firm Shares hereunder are subject to
the following conditions:

          (a) If, at the time this Agreement is executed and delivered, it is
necessary for the registration statement or a post-effective amendment thereto
(or a Rule 462(b) Registration Statement) to be declared effective before the
offering of the Shares may commence, the registration statement or such post-
effective amendment or Rule 462(b) Registration Statement shall have become
effective not later than 5:30 P.M., New York City time, on the date hereof, or
at such later date and time as shall be consented to in writing by you, and all
filings, if any, required by Rules 424 and 430A under the Act shall have been
timely made; no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the registration
statement shall have been issued and no proceeding for that purpose shall have
been instituted or, to the knowledge of the Company or any U.S. Underwriter,
threatened by the Commission, and any request of the Commission for additional
information (to be included in the registration statement or the Prospectuses or
otherwise) shall have been complied with to your reasonable satisfaction.

          (b) Subsequent to the effective date of this Agreement, there shall
not have occurred (i) any change, or any development involving a prospective
change, in or affecting the condition (financial or other), business,
properties, net worth, or results of operations of the Company or the
Subsidiaries not contemplated by the Prospectuses, which in your reasonable
opinion, as Representatives of the several U.S. Underwriters, would materially,
adversely affect the market for the Shares, or (ii) any event or development
relating to or involving the Company or any officer or director of the Company
which makes any statement made in the Prospectuses untrue or which, in the
opinion of the Company and its counsel or the U.S. Underwriters and their
counsel, requires the making of any addition to or change in the Prospectuses in
order to state a material fact required by the Act or any other law to be stated
therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein not misleading, if
amending or supplementing the Prospectuses to reflect such event or development
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              27

would, in your reasonable opinion, as Representatives of the several U.S.
Underwriters, materially adversely affect the market for the Shares.

          (c) Each condition (other than the issuance and sale of the Shares) to
the closing contemplated by the Repurchase Agreement, shall have been satisfied
or waived. There shall exist at and as of the Closing Date (after giving effect
to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement) no condition that would
constitute a default (or any event that with notice or the lapse of time, or
both, would constitute a default) under the Repurchase Agreement, which has not
been waived.  Simultaneously with the issue and sale of the Shares by the
Company, the Company will repurchase from the Selling Stockholders 10,842,299
shares of Common Stock and warrants to purchase 290,821 shares of Common Stock
(the "Company Repurchase").  The Company Repurchase shall be consummated on
terms that conform in all material respects to the descriptions thereof in the
Prospectuses and the Representatives shall have received true and correct copies
of all documents pertaining thereto, as originally executed, and evidence
satisfactory to the Representatives of the consummation thereof.

          (d)  The Credit Agreement, dated as of March 27, 1994, as amended and
restated as of December 29, 1995, and further amended and restated as of
September 6, 1996, among the Company, Broyhill Furniture Industries, Inc., The
Lane Company, Incorporated, Thomasville Furniture Industries, Inc., the Banks
party thereto, Credit Lyonnais New York Branch, as Documentation Agent,
NationsBank, N.A., as Syndication Agent and Bankers Trust Company, as
Administrative Agent, shall be amended in all material respects in accordance
with the financing letter dated May 27, 1997 between Bankers Trust Company and
the Company and in accordance with the description of such amendment in the
Prospectuses (as so amended, the "Secured Credit Agreement").  Each condition to
the closing contemplated under the Secured Credit Agreement in connection with
the Company Repurchase shall have been satisfied or waived. There shall exist at
and as of the Closing Date (after giving effect to the transactions contemplated
by this Agreement) no condition that would constitute a default (or any event
that with notice or the lapse of time, or both, would constitute a default)
under the Secured Credit Agreement, which has not been waived. The closing
contemplated under the Secured Credit Agreement shall have been consummated on
terms that conform in all material respects to the descriptions thereof in the
Prospectuses and the Representatives shall have received true and correct copies
of all documents pertaining thereto, as originally executed, and evidence
satisfactory to the Representatives of the consummation thereof.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              28

          (e) You shall have received on the Closing Date, an opinion of Morgan,
Lewis & Bockius LLP, counsel for the Company, dated the Closing Date and
addressed to you, as Representatives of the several U.S. Underwriters, to the
effect that:

          (i) The Company is a corporation validly existing in good standing
     under the laws of the State of Delaware with corporate power and authority
     to own, lease and operate its properties and to conduct its business as
     described in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses (and any
     amendment or supplement thereto);

          (ii) Each of the Material Subsidiaries is a corporation validly
     existing in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its
     organization, with corporate power and authority to own, lease, and operate
     its properties and to conduct its business as described in the Registration
     Statement and the Prospectuses (and any amendment or supplement thereto);

          (iii) The authorized and outstanding capital stock of the Company is
     as set forth under the caption "Capitalization" in the Prospectuses; and
     the authorized capital stock of the Company conforms in all material
     respects as to legal matters to the description thereof contained in the
     Prospectuses under the caption "Description of Capital Stock";

          (iv) All the outstanding shares of capital stock of the Company have
     been duly authorized and validly issued, and are fully paid and
     nonassessable;

          (v) The Registration Statement and all post-effective amendments, if
     any, have become effective under the Act and, to the knowledge of such
     counsel, no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration
     Statement has been issued and no proceedings for that purpose are pending
     before or contemplated by the Commission; and any required filing of the
     Prospectuses pursuant to Rule 424(b) has been made in accordance with Rule
     424(b);

          (vi) The Company has corporate power and authority to enter into this
     Agreement, and this Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and
     delivered by the Company and is a valid, legal and binding agreement of the
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              29

     Company, enforceable against the Company in accordance with its terms,
     except as enforcement of rights to indemnity and contribution hereunder may
     be limited by Federal or state securities laws or principles of public
     policy and subject to the qualification that the enforceability of the
     Company's obligations hereunder may be limited by bankruptcy, fraudulent
     conveyance, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, and other laws relating
     to or affecting creditors' rights generally, and by general equitable
     principles;

          (vii)  Neither the offer, sale or delivery of the Shares, the
     execution, delivery or performance of this Agreement, compliance by the
     Company and the Selling Stockholders with the provisions hereof nor
     consummation by the Company and the Selling Stockholders of the
     transactions contemplated hereby conflicts or will conflict with or
     constitutes or will constitute a breach of, or a default under, the
     certificate or articles of incorporation or bylaws, or other organizational
     documents, of the Company or any of the Material Subsidiaries or any
     agreement, indenture, lease or other instrument to which the Company or any
     of the Material Subsidiaries is a party or by which any of them or any of
     their respective properties is bound that is an exhibit to the Registration
     Statement or to any Incorporated Document, or is known to such counsel, or
     will result in the creation or imposition of any lien, charge or
     encumbrance upon any property or assets of the Company or any of the
     Material Subsidiaries, nor will any such action result in any violation of
     any existing law, regulation, ruling (assuming compliance with all
     applicable state securities and Blue Sky laws), judgment, injunction, order
     or decree known to such counsel, applicable to the Company, the Material
     Subsidiaries or any of their respective properties;

          (viii) The Registration Statement and the Prospectuses and any
     supplements or amendments thereto (except for the financial statements and
     the notes thereto and the schedules and other financial and statistical
     data included therein, as to which such counsel need not express any
     opinion) comply as to form in all material respects with the requirements
     of the Act; and each of the Incorporated Documents included in the
     Registration Statement (except for the financial statements and the notes
     thereto and the schedules and other financial and statistical data included
     therein, as to which counsel need not express any opinion) complies as to
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              30

     form in all material respects with the Exchange Act and the rules and
     regulations of the Commission thereunder;

          (ix) To the knowledge of such counsel, (A) other than as described or
     contemplated in the Prospectuses (or any supplement thereto), there are no
     legal or governmental proceedings pending or threatened against the Company
     or any of the Subsidiaries, or to which the Company or any of the
     Subsidiaries, or any of their property, is subject, which are required to
     be described in the Registration Statement or Prospectuses (or any
     amendment or supplement thereto) and (B) there are no agreements,
     contracts, indentures, leases or other instruments, that are required to be
     described in the Registration Statement or the Prospectuses (or any
     amendment or supplement thereto) or to be filed as an exhibit to the
     Registration Statement or any Incorporated Document that are not described
     or filed as required, as the case may be;

          (x)  The following statements in the Prospectuses, insofar as they are
     descriptions of contracts, agreements or other legal documents, or refer to
     statements of law or legal conclusions, are accurate and present fairly the
     information required to be shown:  on page 10, under "Risk Factors -
     Significant Leverage", the second sentence relating to the Secured Credit
     Agreement amount, the third sentence relating to the Receivables
     Securitization Facility amount and the last sentence relating to the
     interest rate swap agreement amounts; on page 10, under "Risk Factors -
     Restrictive Covenants in Certain Debt Instruments", the entire paragraph;
     on page 11, under "Risk Factors -Absence of Dividends", the first sentence
     relating to restrictions on the payment of dividends under the Secured
     Credit Agreement; on page 11, under "Risk Factors - Anti-Takeover
     Provisions", the entire paragraph; on page 12, under "Price Range of Common
     Stock and Dividend Policy", the first sentence of the last paragraph
     relating to restrictions on the payment of dividends under the Secured
     Credit Agreement; on page 16, under "Management's Discussion and Analysis
     of Financial Condition and Results of Operations -General", the third
     sentence of the third paragraph relating to no ownership interest or
     management control of the footwear business upon the completion of the
     restructuring; on page 21, under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
     Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Financial Condition and
     Liquidity", the first five sentences of the fourth full paragraph relating
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              31

     to the Secured Credit Agreement and the ninth and tenth sentences of such
     paragraph relating to the financial covenants of the Secured Credit
     Agreement, the entire fifth paragraph on the page relating to the
     Receivables Securitization Facility and the entire sixth paragraph on the
     page; on page 34, under "Business - Environmental Matters", the entire
     first and second paragraphs; on page 36, under "Certain Transactions", the
     entire paragraph; on page 36, under "Selling Stockholders and Company
     Repurchase", the entire second paragraph beginning on the page; on page 37,
     under "Selling Stockholders and Company Repurchase, the entire first full
     paragraph; on page 37, under "Description of Capital Stock", the entire
     section; on page 39, under "Certain U.S. Tax Consequences to Non-U.S.
     Stockholders", the entire section; on page 42, under "Underwriting", the
     first sentence of the third paragraph relating to the obligations of the
     several underwriters; and

          (xi)  Although counsel has not undertaken, except as otherwise
     indicated, to determine independently, and does not assume any
     responsibility for, the accuracy or completeness of the statements in the
     Registration Statement, such counsel has participated in the preparation of
     the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses, including review and
     discussion of the contents thereof (including review and discussion of the
     contents of all Incorporated Documents), and nothing has come to the
     attention of such counsel that has caused them to believe that the
     Registration Statement (including the Incorporated Documents) at the time
     the Registration Statement became effective, or the Prospectuses, as of the
     date thereof and as of the Closing Date or the Option Closing Date, as the
     case may be, contained an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to
     state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make
     the statements therein not misleading or that any amendment or supplement
     to the Prospectuses, as of the respective date thereof, and as of the
     Closing Date or the Option Closing Date, as the case may be, contained any
     untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact
     necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the
     circumstances under which they were made, not misleading (it being
     understood that such counsel need express no belief with respect to the
     financial statements and the notes thereto and the schedules and other
     financial and statistical data included in the Registration Statement or
     the Prospectuses or any Incorporated Document).
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              32

          In rendering such opinion as aforesaid, counsel may limit their
opinion to the federal laws of the United States, the General Corporation Law of
the State of Delaware, and the laws of the States of New York and Pennsylvania,
and may assume that the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the State of
North Carolina are in all relevant respects the same as the Delaware General
Corporation Law.

          (f)  You shall have received on the Closing Date an opinion from
Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, counsel for the Selling Stockholders, dated the
Closing Date and addressed to you, as Representatives of the several U.S.
Underwriters to the effect that:

          (i)  This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by or on
     behalf of each of the Selling Stockholders;

          (ii)  Each Selling Stockholder has full legal right, power and
     authorization, and any approval required by law, to sell, assign, transfer
     and deliver good and marketable title to the Shares which such Selling
     Stockholder has agreed to sell pursuant to this Agreement and, upon
     delivery of the Shares to the U.S. Underwriters against payment therefor in
     accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, the U.S. Underwriters
     will acquire the Shares free of any adverse claim within the meaning of
     Section 8-302 of the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect in the State of
     New York, assuming the U.S. Underwriters have acquired the Shares in good
     faith and without notice of any adverse claim; and

          (iii)  The Repurchase Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and
     delivered by each of the Selling Stockholders and is a valid, legal and
     binding agreement of each of the Selling Stockholders, enforceable against
     each of them in accordance with its terms, except as enforcement of rights
     to indemnity and contribution thereunder may be limited by Federal or state
     securities laws or principles of public policy and subject to the
     qualification that the enforceability of the Selling Stockholders'
     obligations thereunder may be limited by bankruptcy, fraudulent conveyance,
     insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, and other laws relating to or
     affecting creditors' rights generally, and by general equitable principles;

          (iv) The execution and delivery of each of this Agreement and the
     Repurchase Agreement by the Selling Stockholders and the consummation of
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              33

     the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby will not conflict with,
     violate, result in a breach of or constitute a default under the terms or
     provisions of the partnership agreement of any Selling Stockholder, or, to
     such counsel's knowledge, any agreement, indenture, lease or other
     instrument to which any Selling Stockholder is a party or by which any of
     them or any of their assets or property is bound, or violate any statute,
     law, regulation, court order or decree known to such counsel to be
     applicable to any Selling Stockholder or to any of the property or assets
     of any Selling Stockholder, except for any such conflicts, breaches,
     defaults or violations that would not, individually or in the aggregate,
     have a Material Adverse Effect on the ability of such Selling Stockholder
     to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

In rendering their opinion as aforesaid, counsel may, as to factual matters,
rely upon written certificates or statements of officers of the Selling
Stockholders and, as to matters of law, may limit their opinion to the federal
laws of the United States, the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware
and the laws of the State of New York.

          (g) You shall have received on the Closing Date, an opinion of Lynn
Chipperfield, Esq., general counsel for the Company, dated the Closing Date and
addressed to you, as Representatives of the several U.S. Underwriters, to the
effect that:

          (i) The Company and each of the Subsidiaries has corporate power and
     authority, and, to such counsel's knowledge, all necessary governmental
     authorizations, approvals, orders, licenses, certificates, franchises and
     permits of and from all governmental regulatory officials and bodies
     (except where the failure so to have any such authorizations, approvals,
     orders, licenses, certificates, franchises or permits, individually or in
     the aggregate, would not have a Material Adverse Effect), to own their
     respective properties and to conduct their respective businesses as now
     being conducted, as described in the Prospectuses;

          (ii) Each of the Company and the Material Subsidiaries is duly
     qualified to transact business as a foreign corporation in good standing in
     the jurisdictions listed in an attached schedule, which are all
     jurisdictions in which they own, lease or operate manufacturing facilities;
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              34

          (iii)  Neither the Company nor any of the Material Subsidiaries is in
     violation of its respective certificate or articles of incorporation or
     bylaws, or other organizational documents, to the knowledge of such
     counsel, or is in default in the performance of any material obligation,
     agreement or condition contained in any bond, debenture, note or other
     evidence of indebtedness, to the knowledge of such counsel, except as may
     be disclosed in the Prospectuses;

          (iv) Except as disclosed in the Prospectuses, the Company owns of
     record, directly or indirectly, all the outstanding shares of capital stock
     of each of the Subsidiaries free and clear of any lien, adverse claim,
     security interest, equity, or other encumbrance, and all the outstanding
     shares of capital stock of each of the Subsidiaries have been duly
     authorized and validly issued, are fully paid and nonassessable;

          (v)  Other than as described or contemplated in the Prospectuses (or
     any supplement thereto), to such counsel's knowledge after reasonable
     inquiry, there are no legal or governmental proceedings pending or
     threatened against the Company or any of the Subsidiaries, or to which the
     Company or any of the Subsidiaries, or any of their property, is subject,
     which are required to be described in the Registration Statement or
     Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement thereto);

          (vi) To such counsel's knowledge after reasonable inquiry, there are
     no agreements, contracts, indentures, leases or other instruments, that are
     required to be described in the Registration Statement or the Prospectuses
     (or any amendment or supplement thereto) or to be filed as an exhibit to
     the Registration Statement or any Incorporated Document therein that are
     not described or filed as required, as the case may be;

          (vii)  The Company and the Subsidiaries own all patents, trademarks,
     trademark registrations, service marks, service mark registrations, trade
     names, copyrights, licenses, inventions, trade secrets and rights described
     in the Prospectuses as being owned by them or any of them or, to the
     knowledge of such counsel, necessary for the conduct of their respective
     businesses, and such counsel is not aware of any claim to the contrary or
     any challenge by any other person to the rights of the Company and the
     Subsidiaries with respect to the foregoing;
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              35

          (viii)  To such counsel's knowledge after reasonable inquiry, neither
     the Company nor any of the Subsidiaries is in violation of any law,
     ordinance, administrative or governmental rule or regulation applicable to
     the Company or any of the Subsidiaries or of any decree of any court or
     governmental agency or body having jurisdiction over the Company or any of
     the Subsidiaries except for violations that would not, individually or in
     the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect;

          (ix)  Except as described in the Prospectuses, there are no
     outstanding options, warrants or other rights calling for the issuance of,
     and such counsel does not know of any commitment, plan or arrangement to
     issue, any shares of capital stock of the Company or any security
     convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for capital stock of the
     Company; and

          (x)  Except as described in the Prospectuses, there is no holder of
     any security of the Company or any other person who has the right,
     contractual or otherwise, to cause the Company to sell or otherwise issue
     to them, or to permit them to underwrite the sale of, the Shares or the
     right to have any Common Stock or other securities of the Company included
     in the registration statement or the right, as a result of the filing of
     the registration statement, to require registration under the Act of any
     shares of Common Stock or other securities of the Company.

          (xi) The Company has corporate power and authority to enter into the
     Repurchase Agreement and the Secured Credit Agreement and each of the
     Repurchase Agreement and the Secured Credit Agreement has been duly
     authorized, executed and delivered by the Company and is a valid, legal and
     binding agreement of the Company, enforceable against the Company in
     accordance with its terms, except as enforcement of rights to indemnity and
     contribution thereunder may be limited by Federal or state securities laws
     or principles of public policy and subject to the qualification that the
     enforceability of the Company's obligations thereunder may be limited by
     bankruptcy, fraudulent conveyance, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium,
     and other laws relating to or affecting creditors' rights generally, and by
     general equitable principles;
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              36

          (xii)  Neither the execution, delivery or performance of the
     Repurchase Agreement or the Secured Credit Agreement, compliance by the
     Company and the Selling Stockholders with the provisions thereof nor
     consummation by the Company of the transactions contemplated thereby
     conflicts or will conflict with or constitutes or will constitute a breach
     of, or a default under, the certificate or articles of incorporation or
     bylaws, or other organizational documents, of the Company or any of the
     Material Subsidiaries or any agreement, indenture, lease or other
     instrument to which the Company or any of the Material Subsidiaries is a
     party or by which any of them or any of their respective properties is
     bound that is an exhibit to the Registration Statement or to any
     Incorporated Document, or is known to such counsel, or will result in the
     creation or imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon any property
     or assets of the Company or any of the Material Subsidiaries, nor will any
     such action result in any violation of any existing law, regulation, ruling
     (assuming compliance with all applicable state securities and Blue Sky
     laws), judgment, injunction, order or decree known to such counsel,
     applicable to the Company, the Material Subsidiaries or any of their
     respective properties;

          (h) You shall have received on the Closing Date an opinion of Cravath,
Swaine & Moore, counsel for the U.S. Underwriters, dated the Closing Date and
addressed to you, as Representatives of the several U.S. Underwriters, with
respect to such matters as you may reasonably request.

          (i) You shall have received letters addressed to you, as
Representatives of the several U.S. Underwriters, and dated the date hereof and
the Closing Date from KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, independent certified public
accountants, substantially in the forms heretofore approved by you.

          (j) (i)  No stop order suspending the effectiveness of the
Registration Statement shall have been issued and no proceedings for that
purpose shall have been taken or, to the knowledge of the Company, shall be
contemplated by the Commission at or prior to the Closing Date; (ii) there shall
not have been any material change in the capital stock of the Company nor any
material increase in the short-term or long-term debt of the Company (other than
in the ordinary course of business) from that set forth or contemplated in the
Registration Statement or the Prospectuses (or any amendment or Supplement
thereto); (iii) there shall not have been, since the respective dates as of
which information is given in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              37

(or any amendment or supplement thereto), except as may otherwise be stated in
the Registration Statement and Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement
thereto), any material adverse change in the condition (financial or other),
business, prospects, properties, net worth or results of operations of the
Company and the Subsidiaries taken as a whole; (iv) the Company and the
Subsidiaries shall not have any liabilities or obligations, direct or contingent
(whether or not in the ordinary course of business), that are material to the
Company and the Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, other than those reflected in
the Registration Statement or the Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement
thereto); and (v) all the representations and warranties of the Company
contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct on and as of the date
hereof and on and as of the Closing Date as if made on and as of the Closing
Date, and you shall have received a certificate of the Company, dated the
Closing Date and signed on behalf of the Company by the chief executive officer
and the chief financial officer of the Company (or such other officers as are
acceptable to you), to the effect set forth in this Section 10(j) and in Section
10(k) hereof.

          (k) The Company shall not have failed at or prior to the Closing Date
to have performed or complied with any of its agreements herein contained and
required to be performed or complied with by it hereunder at or prior to the
Closing Date.

          (l) All the representations and warranties of the Selling Stockholders
contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct on and as of the date
hereof and on and as of the Closing Date as if made on and as of the Closing
Date and you shall have received a certificate, dated the Closing Date, signed
by or on behalf of each Selling Stockholder to the effect set forth in this
Section 10(l) and in Section 10(m) hereof.

          (m) The Selling Stockholders shall not have failed at or prior to the
Closing Date to have performed or complied with any of their agreements
contained in this Agreement and required to be performed or complied with by
them at or prior to the Closing Date.

          (n) The Company and the Selling Stockholders shall have furnished or
caused to be furnished to you such further certificates and documents as you
shall have reasonably requested.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              38

          (o)  The closing under the International Underwriting Agreement shall
have occurred on the Closing Date concurrently with the closing hereunder.

     All such opinions, certificates, letters and other documents will be in
compliance with the provisions hereof only if they are reasonably satisfactory
in form and substance to you and your counsel.

     Any certificate or document signed by any officer of the Company or by any
Selling Stockholder and delivered to you, as Representatives of the U.S.
Underwriters, or to counsel for the U.S. Underwriters, shall be deemed a
representation and warranty by the Company or such Selling Stockholder to each
U.S. Underwriter as to the statements made therein.

     The several obligations of the U.S. Underwriters to purchase Additional
Shares hereunder are subject to the satisfaction on and as of any Option Closing
Date of the conditions set forth in this Section 10, except that, if any Option
Closing Date is other than the Closing Date, the certificates, opinions and
letters referred to in paragraphs (e) through (l) shall be dated the Option
Closing Date in question and the opinions called for by paragraphs (e), (f), (g)
and (h) shall be revised to reflect the sale of Additional Shares.

     11.  Expenses.  The Company and the Selling Stockholders agree to pay the
          --------                                                            
following costs and expenses and all other costs and expenses incident to the
performance by them of their obligations hereunder:  (i) the preparation,
printing or reproduction, and filing with the Commission of the registration
statement (including financial statements and exhibits thereto), each of the
Prepricing Prospectuses, the Prospectuses, and each amendment or supplement to
any of them; (ii) the printing (or reproduction) and delivery (including
postage, air freight charges and charges for counting and packaging) of such
copies of the registration statement, each U.S. Prepricing Prospectus, the U.S.
Prospectus, and all amendments or supplements to any of them as may be
reasonably requested for use in connection with the offering and sale of the
Shares; (iii) the preparation, printing, authentication, issuance and delivery
of certificates for the Shares, including any stamp taxes in connection with the
original issuance and sale of the Shares; (iv) the cost of production (or
reproduction) and delivery of this Agreement, the Blue Sky Memorandum and all
other agreements, memoranda, correspondence and other documents printed (or
reproduced) and delivered in connection with the original issuance and sale of
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              39

the Shares; (v) the registration or qualification of the Shares for offer and
sale under the securities or Blue Sky laws of the several jurisdictions as
provided in Section 5(g) hereof (including the reasonable fees, expenses and
disbursements of counsel for the U.S. Underwriters and Managers relating to the
preparation, printing or reproduction, and delivery of the Blue Sky Memorandum
and such registration and qualification); (vi) the filing fees in connection
with any filings required to be made with the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc.; (vii) the transportation and other expenses incurred by or on
behalf of representatives of the Company in connection with presentations to
prospective purchasers of the Shares; (viii) the fees and expenses of the
Company's accountants and the fees and expenses of counsel (including local and
special counsel) for the Company and the Selling Stockholders; (ix) the
underwriting discounts and commissions (in proportion to the number of Shares
being offered by each Selling Stockholder, including any Additional Shares that
the U.S. Underwriters have elected to purchase); and (x) the performance by the
Company and the Selling Stockholders of their other obligations under this
Agreement.

     12.  Effective Date of Agreement.  This Agreement shall become effective:
          ---------------------------                                         
(i) upon the execution and delivery hereof by the parties hereto; or (ii) if, at
the time this Agreement is executed and delivered, it is necessary for the
registration statement or a post-effective amendment thereto to be declared
effective before the offering of the Shares may commence, when notification of
the effectiveness of the registration statement or such post-effective amendment
has been released by the Commission.  Until such time as this Agreement shall
have become effective, it may be terminated by the Company or the Selling
Stockholders, by notifying you, or by you, as Representatives of the several
U.S. Underwriters, by notifying the Company and the Selling Stockholders.

          If any one or more of the U.S. Underwriters shall fail or refuse to
purchase Shares which it or they are obligated to purchase hereunder on the
Closing Date, and the aggregate number of Shares which such defaulting U.S.
Underwriter or U.S. Underwriters are obligated but fail or refuse to purchase is
not more than one-tenth of the aggregate number of Shares which the U.S.
Underwriters are obligated to purchase on the Closing Date, each non-defaulting
U.S. Underwriter shall be obligated, severally, in the proportion which the
number of Firm Shares set forth opposite its name in Schedule I hereto bears to
the aggregate number of Firm Shares set forth opposite the names of all non-
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              40

defaulting U.S. Underwriters or in such other proportion as you may specify in
accordance with Section 20 of the Master Agreement Among Underwriters of Smith
Barney Inc., to purchase the Shares which such defaulting U.S. Underwriter or
U.S. Underwriters are obligated, but fail or refuse, to purchase.  If any one or
more of the U.S. Underwriters shall fail or refuse to purchase Shares which it
or they are obligated to purchase on the Closing Date and the aggregate number
of Shares with respect to which such default occurs is more than one-tenth of
the aggregate number of Shares which the U.S. Underwriters are obligated to
purchase on the Closing Date and arrangements satisfactory to you and the
Selling Stockholders for the purchase of such Shares by one or more non-
defaulting U.S. Underwriters or other party or parties approved by you and the
Selling Stockholders are not made within 36 hours after such default, this
Agreement will terminate without liability on the part of any non-defaulting
U.S. Underwriter, the Company or any Selling Stockholder.  In any such case
which does not result in termination of this Agreement, either you or the
Company shall have the right to postpone the Closing Date, but in no event for
longer than seven days, in order that the required changes, if any, in the
Registration Statement and the Prospectuses or any other documents or
arrangements may be effected.  Any action taken under this paragraph shall not
relieve any defaulting U.S. Underwriter from liability in respect of any such
default of any such U.S. Underwriter under this Agreement.  The term "U.S.
Underwriter" as used in this Agreement includes, for all purposes of this
Agreement, any party not listed in Schedule I hereto who, with your approval and
the approval of the Company, purchases Shares which a defaulting U.S.
Underwriter is obligated, but fails or refuses, to purchase.

     Any notice under this Section 12 may be given by telegram, telecopy or
telephone but shall be subsequently confirmed by letter.

     13.  Termination of Agreement.  This Agreement shall be subject to
          ------------------------                                     
termination in your absolute discretion, without liability on the part of any
U.S. Underwriter to the Company or any Selling Stockholder by notice to the
Company, if prior to the Closing Date or any Option Closing Date (if different
from the Closing Date and then only as to the Additional Shares), as the case
may be, (i) trading in securities generally on the New York Stock Exchange, the
American Stock Exchange or the Nasdaq National Market shall have been suspended
or materially limited, (ii) a general moratorium on commercial banking
activities in New York shall have been declared by either federal or state
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              41

authorities, or (iii) there shall have occurred any outbreak or escalation of
hostilities or other international or domestic calamity, crisis or change in
political, financial or economic conditions, the effect of which on the
financial markets of the United States is such as to make it, in your judgment,
impracticable or inadvisable to commence or continue the offering of the Shares
at the offering price to the public set forth on the cover page of the U.S.
Prospectus or to enforce contracts for the resale of the Shares by the U.S.
Underwriters.  Notice of such termination may be given to the Company and the
Selling Stockholders by telegram, telecopy or telephone and shall be
subsequently confirmed by letter.

     14.  Information Furnished by the U.S. Underwriters. The statements set
          ----------------------------------------------                    
forth in the last paragraph on the cover page, the stabilization legend on the
inside front cover, and the statements in the first, second, fourth, seventh,
eighth, ninth, tenth, thirteenth and fourteenth paragraphs under the caption
"Underwriting" in any U.S. Prepricing Prospectus and in the U.S. Prospectus,
constitute the only information furnished by or on behalf of the U.S.
Underwriters through you as such information is referred to in Sections 7(b) and
9 hereof.

     15.  Miscellaneous.  Except as otherwise provided in Sections 5, 12 and 13
          -------------                                                        
hereof, notice given pursuant to any provision of this Agreement shall be in
writing and shall be delivered (i) if to the Company, at the office of the
Company at Furniture Brands International, Inc., 101 South Hanley Road, St.
Louis, Missouri 63105, Attention: Lynn Chipperfield, Esq., General Counsel; (ii)
if to the Selling Stockholders, at Apollo Investment Fund, L.P., care of CICB
Bank and Trust Company (Cayman) Limited, Edward Street, Georgetown, Grand
Cayman, Cayman Islands, British West Indies and Lion Advisors, L.P., Two
Manhattanville Road, Purchase, New York 10577; or (iii) if to you, as
Representatives of the several U.S. Underwriters, care of Smith Barney Inc., 388
Greenwich Street, New York, New York 10013, Attention:  Manager, Investment
Banking Division.

     This Agreement has been and is made solely for the benefit of the several
U.S. Underwriters, the Company, its directors and officers, and the other
controlling persons referred to in Section 9 hereof and the Selling Stockholders
and their respective successors and assigns, to the extent provided herein, and
no other person shall acquire or have any right under or by virtue of this
Agreement.  Neither the term "successor" nor the term "successors and assigns"
as used in this Agreement shall include a purchaser from any U.S. Underwriter of
any of the Shares in his status as such purchaser.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              42

     16.  Applicable Law; Counterparts.  This Agreement shall be governed by and
          ----------------------------                                          
construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York applicable to
contracts made and to be performed within the State of New York.

     This Agreement may be signed in various counterparts which together
constitute one and the same instrument.  If signed in counterparts, this
Agreement shall not become effective unless at least one counterpart hereof
shall have been executed and delivered on behalf of each party hereto.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              43

     Please confirm that the foregoing correctly sets forth the agreement among
the Company, the Selling Stockholders and the several U.S. Underwriters.


                         Very truly yours,


                         FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.


                         By ........................
                            Name:
                            Title:  Vice President


                         APOLLO INVESTMENT FUND, L.P.


                         By: Apollo Advisors, L.P.,
                             Managing General Partner


                         By: Apollo Capital Management,
                             Inc., General Partner


                         By ........................
                            Name:
                            Title:  Vice President


                         LION ADVISORS, L.P.,
                         on behalf of an investment account   
                         under management

                         By: Lion Capital Management, Inc.
                             General Partner


                         By ........................
                            Name:
                            Title:  Vice President
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              44

Confirmed as of the date first
above mentioned on behalf of
themselves and the other several
U.S. Underwriters named in Schedule I
hereto.

SMITH BARNEY INC.
CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON CORPORATION
DILLON, READ & CO. INC
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED
SALOMON BROTHERS INC
WHEAT, FIRST SECURITIES, INC.


As Representatives of the Several U.S. Underwriters


By SMITH BARNEY INC.


By ..........................
   Name:
   Title:
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              45

                    SCHEDULE I



        FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                          Number of
           U.S. Underwriter              Firm Shares
           ----------------              -----------
<S>                                       <C>
 
Smith Barney Inc.........................
Credit Suisse First Boston Corporation...
Dillon, Read & Co. Inc...................
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
            Incorporated.................
Salomon Brothers Inc.....................
Wheat, First Securities, Inc.............
 
 
      Total..............................  8,800,000
                                           =========
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              46

            SCHEDULE II


   FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.


          Selling Stockholders
          --------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
 
                                      Number of
Name                                 Firm Shares
- ----                                 -----------
<S>                                  <C>
Apollo Investment Fund, L.P........    4,400,000
Lion Advisors, L.P., on behalf of      
an investment account under
management.........................    4,400,000
                                       _________
          Total                        8,800,000
                                       =========
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              47

                                 SCHEDULE III


                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.


                    Required Director and Officer Lock-Ups
                    --------------------------------------

 
     1.   Richard B. Loynd

     2.   Wilbert G. Holliman, Jr.

     3.   Brent B. Kincaid

     4.   K. Scott Tyler, Jr.

     5.   Frederick B. Starr

     6.   David P. Howard

     7.   Lynn Chipperfield

     8.   Steven W. Alstadt

<PAGE>
                                                                    Exhibit 1(b)

                                2,200,000 Shares

                     FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.

                                  Common Stock

                 FORM OF INTERNATIONAL UNDERWRITING AGREEMENT
                 --------------------------------------------

                                                                 June [  ], 1997

SMITH BARNEY INC.
CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON (EUROPE) LIMITED
DILLON, READ & CO. INC.
MERRILL LYNCH INTERNATIONAL
SALOMON BROTHERS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
WHEAT, FIRST SECURITIES, INC.

     As Lead Managers for the Several Managers

c/o  SMITH BARNEY INC.
     388 Greenwich Street
     New York, New York 10013

Dear Sirs:

          Certain stockholders named in Schedule II hereto (the "Selling
Stockholders") of Furniture Brands International, Inc. (the "Company"), propose
to sell an aggregate of 2,200,000 shares (the "Shares") of the common stock, no
par value per share of the Company (the "Common Stock"), to the several Managers
named in Schedule I hereto (the "Managers").

          It is understood that the Company and the Selling Stockholders are
currently entering into a U.S. Underwriting Agreement, dated the date hereof
(the "U.S. Underwriting Agreement"), providing for the sale of 8,800,000 shares
of the Common Stock by the Selling Stockholders (the "U.S. Shares"), through
arrangements with certain underwriters in the United States and Canada (the
"U.S. Underwriters"), for whom Smith Barney Inc., Credit Suisse First Boston
Corporation, Dillon, Read & Co. Inc., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated, Salomon Brothers Inc. and Wheat, First Securities, Inc. are acting
as representatives (the "Representatives").  The Shares and the U.S. Shares,
collectively, are herein called the "Underwritten Shares".

          The Company and the Selling Stockholders also understand that the Lead
Managers and the Representatives have entered into an agreement (the "Agreement
Between U.S. Underwriters and Managers") contemplating the coordination of
certain transactions between the Managers and the U.S. Underwriters and that,
pursuant thereto and subject to the conditions set forth therein, the Managers
may purchase from the U.S. Underwriters a portion of the U.S. Shares or sell to
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               2

the U.S. Underwriters a portion of the Shares.  The Company and the Selling
Stockholders understand that any such purchases and sales between the Managers
and the U.S. Underwriters shall be governed by the Agreement Between U.S.
Underwriters and Managers and shall not be governed by the terms of this
Agreement or the U.S. Underwriting Agreement.

          The Company and the Selling Stockholders wish to confirm as follows
their respective agreements with you (the "Lead Managers") and the other several
Managers on whose behalf you are acting, in connection with the several
purchases of the Shares by the Managers.

     1.   Registration Statement and Prospectus.  The Company has prepared and
          -------------------------------------                               
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") in
accordance with the provisions of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and
the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder (collectively, the
"Act"), a registration statement on Form S-3 under the Act (the "registration
statement"), including a prospectus subject to completion relating to the
Underwritten Shares.  The term "Registration Statement" as used in this
Agreement means the registration statement (including all financial schedules
and exhibits), as amended at the time it becomes effective, or, if the
registration statement became effective prior to the execution of this
Agreement, as supplemented or amended prior to the execution of this Agreement.
If it is contemplated, at the time this Agreement is executed, that a post-
effective amendment to the registration statement will be filed and must be
declared effective before the offering of the Shares may commence, the term
"Registration Statement" as used in this Agreement means the registration
statement as amended by said post-effective amendment.  If an abbreviated
registration statement is prepared and filed with the Commission in accordance
with Rule 462(b) under the Act ("a Rule 462(b) Registration Statement"), the
term "Registration Statement" as used in this Agreement includes the Rule 462(b)
Registration Statement.  The term "Prospectuses" as used in this Agreement means
the prospectuses in the form included in the Registration Statement, or, if the
prospectuses included in the Registration Statement omit information in reliance
on Rule 430A under the Act and such information is included in prospectuses
filed with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Act, the term
"Prospectuses" as used in this Agreement means the prospectuses in the form
included in the Registration Statement as supplemented by the addition of the
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               3

Rule 430A information contained in the prospectuses filed with the Commission
pursuant to Rule 424(b).  The term "Prepricing Prospectuses" as used in this
Agreement means the prospectuses subject to completion in the form included in
the registration statement at the time of the initial filing of the registration
statement with the Commission, and as such prospectuses shall have been amended
from time to time prior to the date of the Prospectuses.  Any reference in this
Agreement to the registration statement, the Registration Statement, any
Prepricing Prospectus or the Prospectuses shall be deemed to refer to and
include the documents incorporated by reference therein pursuant to Item 12 of
Form S-3 under the Act, as of the date of the registration statement, the
Registration Statement, such Prepricing Prospectus or the Prospectuses, as the
case may be, and any reference to any amendment or supplement to the
registration statement, the Registration Statement, any Prepricing Prospectus or
the Prospectuses shall be deemed to refer to and include any documents filed
after such date under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the
"Exchange Act") which, upon filing, are incorporated by reference therein, as
required by paragraph (b) of Item 12 of Form S-3.  As used herein, the term
"Incorporated Documents" means the documents which at the time are incorporated
by reference in the registration statement, the Registration Statement, any
Prepricing Prospectus, the Prospectuses, or any amendment or supplement thereto.

          It is understood that two forms of Prepricing Prospectus and two forms
of Prospectus are to be used in connection with the offering and sale of the
Underwritten Shares:  a Prepricing Prospectus and a Prospectus relating to the
Shares that are to be offered and sold outside the United States (as defined
herein) or Canada (as defined herein) to persons other than U.S. or Canadian
Persons (the "International Prepricing Prospectus" and the "International
Prospectus", respectively), and a Prepricing Prospectus and a Prospectus
relating to the U.S. Shares which are to be offered and sold in the United
States and Canada to U.S. or Canadian Persons (the "U.S. Prepricing Prospectus"
and the "U.S. Prospectus", respectively).  The International Prospectus and the
U.S. Prospectus are herein collectively called the "Prospectuses," and the
International Prepricing Prospectus and the U.S. Prepricing Prospectus are
herein collectively called the "Prepricing Prospectuses".  For purposes of this
Agreement:  "U.S. or Canadian Person" means any resident or national of the
United States or Canada, any corporation, partnership or other entity created or
organized in or under the laws of the United States or Canada or any estate or
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               4

trust the income of which is subject to United States or Canadian income
taxation regardless of the source of its income (other than the foreign branch
of any U.S. or Canadian Person), and includes any United States or Canadian
branch of a person other than a U.S. or Canadian Person; "United States" means
the United States of America (including the states thereof and the District of
Columbia) and its territories, its possessions and other areas subject to its
jurisdiction; and "Canada" means Canada and its territories, its possessions and
other areas subject to its jurisdiction.

     2.   Agreements to Sell and Purchase.  Subject to such adjustments as you
          -------------------------------                                     
may determine in order to avoid fractional shares, each Selling Stockholder
agrees, severally and not jointly, subject to all the terms and conditions set
forth herein, to sell to each Manager and, upon the basis of the
representations, warranties and agreements of the Company and the Selling
Stockholders herein contained and subject to all the terms and conditions set
forth herein, each Manager, severally and not jointly, agrees to purchase from
each Selling Stockholder at a price per share of $[     ] (the "purchase price
per share") the number of Shares which bears the same proportion to the number
of Shares set forth opposite the name of such Selling Stockholder in Schedule II
hereto as the number of Shares set forth opposite the name of such Manager in
Schedule I hereto (or such number of Shares increased as set forth in Section 12
hereof) bears to the aggregate number of Shares to be sold by the Selling
Stockholders.

          Each Manager represents, warrants, covenants and agrees that, except
as contemplated under Section 2 of the Agreement Between U.S. Underwriters and
Managers dated the date hereof (as described in the Prospectuses under
"Underwriting"), (i) it is not purchasing any Shares for the account of a U.S.
or Canadian Person and (ii) it has not offered or sold, and will not offer,
sell, resell or deliver, directly or indirectly, any Shares or distribute any
International Prospectus in the United States or Canada or to a U.S. or Canadian
Person.

     3.   Terms of Public Offering.  The Company and the Selling Stockholders
          ------------------------                                           
have been advised by you that the Managers propose to make a public offering of
their respective portions of the Shares as soon after the Registration Statement
and this Agreement have become effective as in your judgment is advisable and
initially to offer the Shares upon the terms set forth in the International
Prospectus.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               5

     4.   Delivery of the Shares and Payment Therefor. Delivery to the Managers
          -------------------------------------------                          
of and payment for the Shares shall be made at the office of Smith Barney Inc.,
388 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10013, at 10:00 A.M., New York City time, on
June [  ], 1997 (the "Closing Date").  The place of closing for the Shares and
the Closing Date may be varied by agreement among you, the Company and the
Selling Stockholders.

          Certificates for the Shares shall be registered in such names and in
such denominations as you shall request prior to 9:30 A.M., New York City time,
on the second business day preceding the Closing Date.  Such certificates shall
be made available to you in New York City for inspection and packaging not later
than 9:30 A.M., New York City time, on the business day next preceding the
Closing Date.  The certificates evidencing the Shares and shall be delivered to
you on the Closing Date, against payment of the purchase price therefor in
immediately available funds.

     5.   Agreements of the Company.  The Company agrees with the several
          -------------------------                                      
Managers as follows:

          (a) If, at the time this Agreement is executed and delivered, it is
necessary for the Registration Statement or a post-effective amendment thereto
or any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement to be declared effective before the
offering of the Shares may commence, the Company will endeavor to cause the
Registration Statement or such post-effective amendment to become effective as
soon as possible and will advise you promptly and, if requested by you, will
confirm such advice in writing, when the Registration Statement or such post-
effective amendment has become effective.

          (b) The Company will advise you promptly and, if requested by you,
will confirm such advice in writing: (i) of any request by the Commission for
amendment of or a supplement to the Registration Statement, any Prepricing
Prospectus or the Prospectuses or for additional information; (ii) of the
issuance by the Commission of any stop order suspending the effectiveness of the
Registration Statement or of the suspension of qualification of the Shares for
offering or sale in any jurisdiction or the initiation of any proceeding for
such purpose; and (iii) within the period of time referred to in paragraph (f)
below, of any change in the Company's condition (financial or other), business,
prospects, properties, net worth or results of operations, or of the happening
of any event, which makes any statement of a material fact made in the
Registration Statement or the Prospectuses (as then amended or supplemented)
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               6

untrue or which requires the making of any additions to or changes in the
Registration Statement or the Prospectuses (as then amended or supplemented) in
order to state a material fact required by the Act or the regulations thereunder
to be stated therein or necessary in order to make the statements therein not
misleading, or of the necessity to amend or supplement the Prospectuses (as then
amended or supplemented) to comply with the Act or any other law.  If at any
time the Commission shall issue any stop order suspending the effectiveness of
the Registration Statement, the Company will make every reasonable effort to
obtain the withdrawal of such order at the earliest possible time.

          (c) The Company will furnish to you, without charge (i) six copies of
the registration statement as originally filed with the Commission and of each
amendment thereto, including financial statements and all exhibits to the
Registration Statement, and of any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement and any
amendment thereto, (ii) such number of conformed copies of the Registration
Statement as originally filed and of each amendment thereto, but without
exhibits, as you may reasonably request, (iii) such number of copies of the
Incorporated Documents, without exhibits, and of any Rule 462(b) Registration
Statement and any amendment thereto, as you may reasonably request, and (iv) six
copies of the exhibits to the Incorporated Documents.

          (d)  The Company will not file any amendment to the Registration
Statement, any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement or amendment thereto, or make
any amendment or supplement to the Prospectuses or, prior to the end of the
period of time referred to in the first sentence in subsection (f) below, file
any document which, upon filing becomes an Incorporated Document, of which you
shall not previously have been advised or to which, after you shall have
received a copy of the document proposed to be filed, you shall reasonably
object.

          (e) Prior to the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Company
has delivered to you, without charge, in such quantities as you have requested,
copies of each form of the International Prepricing Prospectus.  The Company
consents to the use, in accordance with the provisions of the Act and with the
securities laws of the jurisdictions in which the Shares are offered by the
several Managers and by dealers, prior to the date of the International
Prospectus, of each International Prepricing Prospectus so furnished by the
Company.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               7

          (f) As soon after the execution and delivery of this Agreement as
possible and thereafter from time to time for such period as in the opinion of
counsel for the Managers a prospectus is required by the Act to be delivered in
connection with sales by any Manager or dealer, the Company will expeditiously
deliver to each Manager and each dealer, without charge, as many copies of the
International Prospectus (and of any amendment or supplement thereto) as you may
reasonably request.  The Company consents to the use of the International
Prospectus (and of any amendment or supplement thereto) in accordance with the
provisions of the Act and with the securities laws of the jurisdictions in which
the Shares are offered by the several Managers and by all dealers to whom Shares
may be sold, both in connection with the offering and sale of the Shares and for
such period of time thereafter as the International Prospectus is required by
the Act to be delivered in connection with sales by any Manager or dealer.  If
during such period of time any event shall occur that in the judgment of the
Company or in the opinion of counsel for the Managers is required to be set
forth in the International Prospectus (as then amended or supplemented) or
should be set forth therein in order to make the statements therein, in the
light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, or if it
is necessary to supplement or amend the International Prospectus (or to file
under the Exchange Act any document which, upon filing, becomes an Incorporated
Document) in order to comply with the Act or any other law, the Company will
forthwith prepare and, subject to the provisions of paragraph (d) above, file
with the Commission an appropriate supplement or amendment thereto (or to such
document), and will expeditiously furnish to the Managers and dealers a
reasonable number of copies thereof.  In the event that the Company and you, as
Lead Managers for the several Managers, agree that the International Prospectus
should be amended or supplemented, the Company, if requested by you, will
promptly issue a press release announcing or disclosing the matters to be
covered by the proposed amendment or supplement.

          (g) The Company will cooperate with you and with counsel for the
Managers in connection with the registration or qualification of the Shares for
offering and sale by the several Managers and by dealers under the securities
laws of such jurisdictions as you may designate and will file such consents to
service of process or other documents necessary or appropriate in order to
effect such registration or qualification; provided that in no event shall the
Company be obligated to qualify to do business in any jurisdiction where it is
not now so qualified or to take any action which would subject it to service of
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               8

process in suits, other than those arising out of the offering or sale of the
Shares, in any jurisdiction where it is not now so subject.

          (h) The Company will make generally available to its security holders
a consolidated earnings statement, which need not be audited, covering the
period specified by Section 11(a) of the Act and Rule 158 thereunder, as soon as
reasonably practicable, which consolidated earnings statement shall satisfy the
provisions of Section 11(a) of the Act and Rule 158 thereunder.

          (i) During the period of five years hereafter, the Company will
furnish to you (i) upon your request, at such address as you may specify, as
soon as available, a copy of each report of the Company mailed to stockholders
or filed with the Commission, and (ii) from time to time such other information
concerning the Company as you may reasonably request.

          (j) If this Agreement shall terminate or shall be terminated after
execution pursuant to any provisions hereof (otherwise than pursuant to the
second paragraph of Section 12 hereof or by notice given by you terminating this
Agreement pursuant to Section 12 or Section 13 hereof) or if this Agreement
shall be terminated by the Managers because of any failure or refusal on the
part of the Company or any of the Selling Stockholders to comply with the terms
or fulfill any of the conditions of this Agreement, the Company agrees to
reimburse the Lead Managers for all out-of-pocket expenses (including reasonable
fees and expenses of counsel for the Managers) incurred by you in connection
herewith.

          (k) If Rule 430A of the Act is employed, the Company will timely file
the Prospectuses pursuant to Rule 424(b) under the Act and will advise you of
the time and manner of such filing.

          (l) Except as provided in this Agreement, the Company will not sell,
contract to sell or otherwise dispose of any Common Stock (except shares issued
upon exercises of options outstanding under the Company's 1992 stock option plan
or upon exercise of outstanding warrants) or any securities convertible into or
exercisable or exchangeable for Common Stock, or grant any options (except any
options granted under the Company's 1992 stock option plan) or warrants to
purchase Common Stock, for a period of 90 days after the date of the
International Prospectus, without the prior written consent of Smith Barney Inc.

          (m)  The Company has furnished or will furnish to you "lock-up"
letters, in form and substance satisfactory to you, signed by each of its
<PAGE>
 
                                                                               9

current officers and directors listed on Schedule III hereto.

          (n) Except as stated in this Agreement and in the Prepricing
Prospectuses and Prospectuses, the Company has not taken, nor will it take,
directly or indirectly, any action designed to or that might reasonably be
expected to cause or result in stabilization or manipulation of the price of the
Common Stock to facilitate the sale or resale of the Shares.

          (o)  The Company will use all reasonable efforts to satisfy on or
before the Closing Date all conditions to the Managers' obligations to purchase
the Shares.

     6.  Agreements of the Selling Stockholders.  Each of the Selling
         --------------------------------------                      
Stockholders agrees with the several Managers as follows:

          (a)  Such Selling Stockholder will cooperate to the extent necessary
to cause the registration statement or any post-effective amendment thereto to
become effective at the earliest possible time.

          (b)  Such Selling Stockholder will pay all Federal and other taxes, if
any, on the transfer or sale of such Shares that are sold by the Selling
Stockholder to the Managers.

          (c)  Such Selling Stockholder will do or perform all things required
to be done or performed by the Selling Stockholder prior to the Closing Date to
satisfy all conditions precedent to the delivery of the Shares pursuant to this
Agreement.

          (d)  Except as provided in this Agreement and in the lock-up letter
referred to in paragraph (e) below, such Selling Stockholder will not sell or
otherwise dispose of any Common Stock for a period of 90 days after the date of
the International Prospectus, without the prior written consent of Smith Barney
Inc.

          (e)  Such Selling Stockholder has furnished or will furnish to you a
"lock-up" letter, in form and substance satisfactory to you.

          (f)  Except as stated in this Agreement and the U.S. Underwriting
Agreement and in the Prepricing Prospectuses and the Prospectuses, such Selling
Stockholder has not taken, nor will it take, directly or indirectly, any action
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              10

designed to or that might reasonably be expected to cause or result in
stabilization or manipulation of the price of the Common Stock to facilitate the
sale or resale of the Shares.

     7.   Representations and Warranties of the Company. The Company represents
          ---------------------------------------------                        
and warrants to each Manager and to the Selling Stockholders that:

          (a) Each International Prepricing Prospectus included as part of the
registration statement as originally filed or as part of any amendment or
supplement thereto, or filed pursuant to Rule 424 under the Act, complied when
so filed in all material respects with the provisions of the Act; except that
this representation and warranty does not apply to statements in or omissions
from such International Prepricing Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement
thereto) made in reliance upon and in conformity with information relating to
any Selling Stockholder or to any Manager or U.S. Underwriter furnished to the
Company in writing by a Manager through the Lead Managers or by a U.S.
Underwriter through the Representatives or by a Selling Stockholder expressly
for use therein.  The Commission has not issued any order preventing or
suspending the use of any Prepricing Prospectus.

          (b) The Company and the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
meet the requirements for using Form S-3 under the Act.  The registration
statement in the form in which it became or becomes effective and also in such
form as it may be when any post-effective amendment thereto or any Rule 462(b)
Registration Statement or amendment thereto shall become effective and the
International Prospectus and any supplement or amendment thereto when filed with
the Commission under Rule 424(b) under the Act, complied or will comply in all
material respects with the provisions of the Act and will not at any such times
contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact
required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not
misleading; except that this representation and warranty does not apply to
statements in or omissions from the Registration Statement or the International
Prospectus made in reliance upon and in conformity with information relating to
any Selling Stockholder or to any Manager or U.S. Underwriter furnished to the
Company in writing by a Manager through the Lead Managers or by a U.S.
Underwriter through the Representatives or by a Selling Stockholder expressly
for use therein.

          (c)  The Incorporated Documents included in the Registration Statement
heretofore filed, when they were filed (or, if any amendment with respect to any
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              11

such document was filed, when such amendment was filed), conformed in all
material respects with the requirements of the Exchange Act and the rules and
regulations thereunder, and any further Incorporated Documents so filed will,
when they are filed, conform in all material respects with the requirements of
the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder; no such document when
it was filed (or, if an amendment with respect to any such document was filed,
when such amendment was filed), contained an untrue statement of a material fact
or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary
in order to make the statements therein not misleading; and no such further
document, when it is filed, will contain an untrue statement of a material fact
or will omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary
in order to make the statements therein not misleading.

          (d) All the outstanding shares of Common Stock of the Company,
including the Underwritten Shares, have been duly authorized and validly issued,
are fully paid and nonassessable and are free of any preemptive or similar
rights; and the capital stock of the Company conforms to the description thereof
in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses.

          (e) The Company is a corporation duly organized and validly existing
in good standing under the laws of the State of Delaware with full corporate
power and authority to own, lease and operate its properties and to conduct its
business as described in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses, and is
duly registered and qualified to conduct its business and is in good standing in
each jurisdiction or place where the nature of its properties or the conduct of
its business requires such registration or qualification, except where the
failure so to register or qualify does not, individually or in the aggregate,
have a material adverse effect on the condition (financial or other), business,
properties, net worth or results of operations of the Company and the
Subsidiaries (as hereinafter defined) taken as a whole (a "Material Adverse
Effect").

          (f) All the Company's subsidiaries (collectively, the "Subsidiaries")
are listed in an exhibit to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K which is
incorporated by reference into the Registration Statement (except for certain
immaterial subsidiaries formed since the filing thereof).  Each of Action
Industries, Inc., Broyhill Furniture Industries, Inc., The Lane Company,
Incorporated, and Thomasville Furniture Industries, Inc. (the "Material
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              12

Subsidiaries") is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and in good
standing in the jurisdiction of its incorporation, with full corporate power and
authority to own, lease and operate its properties and to conduct its business
as described in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses, and is duly
registered and qualified to conduct its business and is in good standing in each
jurisdiction or place where the nature of its properties or the conduct of its
business requires such registration or qualification, except where the failure
so to register or qualify does not, individually or in the aggregate, have a
Material Adverse Effect; all the outstanding shares of capital stock of each of
the Material Subsidiaries have been duly authorized and validly issued, are
fully paid and nonassessable, and are owned by the Company, free and clear of
any lien, adverse claim, security interest, equity, or other encumbrance,
except as described in the Registration Statement.

          (g) There are no legal or governmental proceedings pending or, to the
knowledge of the Company, threatened, against the Company or any of the
Subsidiaries, or to which the Company or any of the Subsidiaries, or to which
any of their respective properties is subject, that are required to be described
in the Registration Statement or the Prospectuses but are not described as
required, and there are no agreements, contracts, indentures, leases or other
instruments that are required to be described in the Registration Statement or
the Prospectuses or to be filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement or
any Incorporated Document therein that are not described or filed as required by
the Act or the Exchange Act.

          (h) Neither the Company nor any of the Subsidiaries is in violation of
its certificate or articles of incorporation or by-laws, or other organizational
documents, or of any law, ordinance, administrative or governmental rule or
regulation applicable to the Company or any of the Subsidiaries or of any decree
of any court or governmental agency or body having jurisdiction over the Company
or any of the Subsidiaries, except any violations which will not, individually
or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect, or in default in any
material respect in the performance of any material obligation, agreement or
condition contained in any bond, debenture, note or any other evidence of
indebtedness or in any material agreement, indenture, lease or other instrument
to which the Company or any of the Subsidiaries is a party or by which any of
them or any of their respective properties may be bound (except where any such
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              13

default or defaults would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material
Adverse Effect).

          (i) Neither the sale of the Underwritten Shares, the execution,
delivery or performance of this Agreement, the Stock Purchase and Secondary
Offering Agreement dated as of May 27, 1997, among the Company and the Selling
Stockholders (the "Repurchase Agreement"), and the Secured Credit Agreement (as
defined herein) by the Company nor the consummation by the Company of the
transactions contemplated hereby or thereby (i) requires any consent, approval,
authorization or other order of or registration or filing with, any court,
regulatory body, administrative agency or other governmental body, agency or
official (except such as may be required for the registration of the Shares
under the Act and compliance with the securities or Blue Sky laws of various
jurisdictions, both of which have been or will be effected in accordance with
this Agreement) or conflicts or will conflict with or constitutes or will
constitute a breach of, or a default under, the certificate or articles of
incorporation or bylaws, or other organizational documents, of the Company or
any of the Subsidiaries or (ii) conflicts or will conflict with or constitutes
or will constitute a breach of, or a default under, any agreement, indenture,
lease or other instrument to which the Company or any of the Subsidiaries is a
party or by which any of them or any of their respective properties may be
bound, or violates or will violate any statute, law, regulation or filing
(except the securities or Blue Sky laws of the various jurisdictions, as to
which no representation or warranty is made) or judgment, injunction, order or
decree applicable to the Company or any of the Subsidiaries or any of their
respective properties, or will result in the creation or imposition of any lien,
charge or encumbrance upon any property or assets of the Company or any of the
Subsidiaries pursuant to the terms of any agreement or instrument to which any
of them is a party or by which any of them may be bound or to which any of the
property or assets of any of them is subject.

          (j) The accountants, KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, who have certified or
shall certify the financial statements included or incorporated by reference in
the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement
thereto) are independent public accountants as required by the Act.

          (k) The financial statements, together with related schedules and
notes, included or incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement and
the Prospectuses (and any amendment or supplement thereto), present fairly, in
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              14

all material respects, the consolidated financial position, results of
operations and changes in financial position of the Company and the Subsidiaries
on the basis stated in the Registration Statement at the respective dates or for
the respective periods to which they apply; such statements and related
schedules and notes have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles consistently applied throughout the periods involved,
except as disclosed therein; and the other financial and statistical information
and data relating to the Company and the Subsidiaries included or incorporated
by reference in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses (and any
amendment or supplement thereto) are accurately presented in all material
respects and prepared on a basis consistent with such financial statements and
the books and records of the Company and the Subsidiaries.

          (l) The execution and delivery of, and the performance by the Company
of its obligations under, this Agreement, the Repurchase Agreement and the
Secured Credit Agreement have been duly and validly authorized by the Company,
and each of this Agreement, the Repurchase Agreement and the Secured Credit
Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by the Company and constitutes a
valid and legally binding agreement of the Company, enforceable against the
Company in accordance with terms, except as rights to indemnity and contribution
hereunder or thereunder may be limited by federal or state securities laws and
subject to the qualification that the enforceability of the Company's
obligations hereunder or thereunder may be limited by bankruptcy, fraudulent
conveyance, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, and other laws relating to
or affecting creditors' rights generally, and by general equitable principles.

          (m) Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement and the
Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement thereto), subsequent to the
respective dates as of which such information is given in the Registration
Statement and the Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement thereto), neither
the Company nor any of the Subsidiaries has incurred any liability or
obligation, direct or contingent, or entered into any transaction, not in the
ordinary course of business, that is material to the Company and the
Subsidiaries taken as a whole, and there has not been any change in the capital
stock of the Company, or material increase in the short-term debt or long-term
debt of the Company or any of the Subsidiaries, or any material adverse change,
or any development involving or which may reasonably be expected to involve, a
prospective material adverse change, in the condition (financial or other),
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              15

business, net worth or results of operations of the Company and the Subsidiaries
taken as a whole.

          (n) With only such exceptions as would not, individually or in the
aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect, each of the Company and the
Subsidiaries has good and, in the case of real property, marketable title to all
property (real and personal) described in the Prospectuses as being owned by it,
free and clear of all liens, claims, security interests or other encumbrances
except such as are described in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses
or in a document filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement and all the
property described in the Prospectuses as being held under lease by each of the
Company and the Subsidiaries is held by it under valid, subsisting and
enforceable leases.

          (o) The Company has not distributed and, prior to the later to occur
of (i) the Closing Date and (ii) completion of the distribution of the Shares,
will not distribute any offering material in connection with the offering and
sale of the Shares other than the Registration Statement, the Prepricing
Prospectuses, the Prospectuses or other materials, if any, permitted by the Act.

          (p) The Company and each of the Subsidiaries has such material
permits, licenses, franchises and authorizations of governmental or regulatory
authorities ("permits") as are necessary to own its respective properties and to
conduct its business in all material respects in the manner described in the
Prospectuses, subject to such qualifications as may be set forth in the
Prospectuses; the Company and each of the Subsidiaries has fulfilled and
performed all its material obligations with respect to such permits and no event
has occurred which allows, or after notice or lapse of time would allow,
revocation or termination thereof or results in any other material impairment of
the rights of the holder of any such permit, subject in each case to such
qualification as may be set forth in the Prospectuses; and, except as described
in the Prospectuses, none of such permits contains any restriction that is
materially burdensome to the Company or any of the Subsidiaries.

          (q)  The properties, assets and operations of the Company and its
Subsidiaries comply with all applicable Environmental Laws (as defined below),
except to the extent that failure so to comply would not, individually or in the
aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.  Except as specifically described in
the Prospectuses, none of the property, assets or operations of the Company or
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              16

its Subsidiaries is the subject of any investigation by any federal, state,
local or foreign governmental agency evaluating whether any remedial action is
needed to respond to a release of any Hazardous Materials (as defined below)
into the environment or a release of any Hazardous Materials that is in
contravention of any federal, state, local or foreign law, order or regulation,
in each case that is likely to have a Material Adverse Effect, and neither the
Company nor any Subsidiary has received notice of any such investigation.
Except as described in the Prospectuses, neither the Company nor any Subsidiary
has received any notice or claim, nor are there pending, reasonably anticipated
or, to the best knowledge of the Company, threatened lawsuits against any of
them, with respect to violations of an Environmental Law or in connection with
any release of any Hazardous Materials into the environment that, if adversely
determined, could have a Material Adverse Effect.  Except as disclosed in the
Prospectuses, with respect to the business of the Company or its Subsidiaries,
including any previously or currently owned, leased, or used properties or
operations, there are no past, present, or, to the best knowledge of the
Company, reasonably anticipated future events, conditions, circumstances,
activities, practices, incidents, actions or plans that may interfere with or
prevent compliance or continued compliance with the Environmental Laws in any
material respect.  As used herein, "Environmental Laws" means any federal,
state, local or foreign law, common law, doctrine, rule, order, decrees,
judgment, injunction, license, permit or regulation relating to environmental
matters, and "Hazardous Materials" means those substances that are regulated by
or form the basis of liability under any Environmental Laws.

          (r)  The Company and each other person or entity that, together with
the Company, is treated as a single employer under Section 414 of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") (each such person or entity being
an "ERISA Affiliate"), complies in all material respects with the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA"), and the Code with
respect to each pension plan (as defined in Section 3(2) of ERISA) maintained by
the Company or such ERISA Affiliate, and none of the Company or any of its ERISA
Affiliates has incurred any material liability under Title IV of ERISA to any
pension plan or to the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation that has not been
fully paid as of the date hereof.

          (s) The Company maintains a system of internal accounting controls
sufficient to provide reasonable assurances that (i) transactions are executed
in accordance with management's general or specific authorization; (ii)
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              17

transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial
statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles and to
maintain accountability for assets; (iii) access to assets is permitted only in
accordance with management's general or specific authorization; and (iv) the
recorded accountability for assets is compared with existing assets at
reasonable intervals and appropriate action is taken with respect to any
differences.

          (t) To the knowledge of the Company, neither the Company nor any of
its Subsidiaries nor any employee or agent of the Company or any Subsidiary has
made any payment of funds of the Company or any Subsidiary or received or
retained any funds in violation of any law, rule or regulation, which payment,
receipt or retention of funds is of a character required to be disclosed in the
Prospectuses.

          (u) The Company and each of the Subsidiaries have filed all material
tax returns required to be filed, which returns are complete and correct in all
material respects, and neither the Company nor any Subsidiary is in default in
the payment of any taxes which were payable pursuant to said returns or any
assessments with respect thereto.

          (v) No holder of any security of the Company has any right (except as
has been satisfied or waived) to require registration of shares of Common Stock
or any other security of the Company because of the filing of the registration
statement or consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

          (w) The Company and the Subsidiaries own or possess all patents,
trademarks, trademark registrations, service marks, service mark registrations,
trade names, copyrights, licenses, inventions, trade secrets and rights
described in the Prospectuses as being owned by them or any of them or to the
Company's knowledge necessary for the conduct of their respective businesses,
and the Company is not aware of any claim to the contrary or any challenge by
any other person to the rights of the Company and the Subsidiaries with respect
to the foregoing which will have a Material Adverse Effect.

          (x)  The Company has complied with all provisions of Florida Statutes,
(S)517.075, relating to issuers doing business with Cuba.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              18

     8.   Representations and Warranties of the Selling Stockholders.  Each
          ----------------------------------------------------------       
Selling Stockholder represents and warrants to each Manager and the Company
that:

          (a)  Such Selling Stockholder now has, and on the Closing Date will
have, full legal right, power and authorization, and any approval required by
law, to sell, assign, transfer and deliver such Shares in the manner provided in
this Agreement, and upon delivery of and payment for such Shares hereunder, the
several Managers will acquire valid and marketable title to such Shares free and
clear of any lien, claim, security interest, or other encumbrance.

          (b)  The execution and delivery of, and the performance by such
Selling Stockholder of its obligations under, this Agreement and the Repurchase
Agreement have been duly and validly authorized by such Selling Stockholder, and
each of this Agreement and the Repurchase Agreement has been duly executed and
delivered by such Selling Stockholder and constitutes a valid and legally
binding agreement of such Selling Stockholder, enforceable against such Selling
Stockholder in accordance with its terms, except as limited by federal or state
securities laws and subject to the qualification that the enforceability of the
Selling Stockholder's obligations hereunder or thereunder may be limited by
bankruptcy, fraudulent conveyance, insolvency reorganization, moratorium, and
other laws relating to or affecting creditors' rights generally, and by general
equitable principles.

          (c)  Neither the sale of the Shares nor the execution, delivery or
performance of this Agreement or the Repurchase Agreement by or on behalf of
such Selling Stockholder nor the consummation by or on behalf of such Selling
Stockholder of the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby (i) requires any
consent, approval, authorization or other order of, or registration or filing
with, any court, regulatory body, administrative agency or other governmental
body, agency or official (except such as may be required for the registration of
the Shares under the Act or compliance with the securities laws of various
jurisdictions), or (ii) conflicts or will conflict with or constitutes or will
constitute a breach of, or a default under, any agreement, indenture, lease or
other instrument to which such Selling Stockholder is a party or by which such
Selling Stockholder is or may be bound, or violates or will violate any statute,
law, regulation or filing or judgment, injunction, order or decree applicable to
such Selling Stockholder, or will result in the creation or imposition of any
lien, charge or encumbrance upon any property or assets of such Selling
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              19

Stockholder pursuant to the terms of any agreement or instrument to which such
Selling Stockholder is a party or by which such Selling Stockholder may be bound
or to which any of the property or assets of such Selling Stockholder is
subject.

          (d)  The Registration Statement and the Prospectuses, insofar as they
contain information relating to such Selling Stockholder, do not and will not
contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state any material
fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein
not misleading.

          (e)  Such Selling Stockholder has not taken, directly or indirectly,
any action designed to or that might reasonably be expected to cause or result
in stabilization or manipulation of the price of the Common Stock to facilitate
the sale or resale of the Shares, except for the lock-up arrangements referred
to in the Prospectuses.

          (f)  Such Selling Stockholder (without undertaking any independent
investigation) does not have any knowledge that the Registration Statement or
the Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement thereto) contains any untrue
statement of a material fact or omits to state any material fact required to be
stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading.

     9.   Indemnification and Contribution.  (a)  The Company agrees to
          --------------------------------                             
indemnify and hold harmless each of you and each other Manager and each person,
if any, who controls any Manager within the meaning of Section 15 of the Act or
Section 20 of the Exchange Act from and against any and all losses, claims,
damages, liabilities and expenses (including reasonable costs of investigation)
arising out of or based upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of
a material fact contained in any International Prepricing Prospectus or in the
Registration Statement or the International Prospectus or in any amendment or
supplement thereto, or arising out of or based upon any omission or alleged
omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, except insofar as such
losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses arise out of or are based upon
any untrue statement or omission or alleged untrue statement or omission which
has been made therein or omitted therefrom in reliance upon and in conformity
with the information relating to such Manager or U.S. Underwriter furnished in
writing to the Company by or on behalf of any Manager through you or by or on
behalf of any U.S. Underwriter through a Representative expressly for use in
connection therewith; provided, however, that the indemnification contained in
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              20

this paragraph (a) with respect to any International Prepricing Prospectus shall
not inure to the benefit of any Manager (or to the benefit of any person
controlling such Manager) on account of any such loss, claim, damage, liability
or expense arising from the sale of the Shares by such Manager to any person if
a copy of the International Prospectus shall not have been delivered or sent to
such person within the time required by the Act and the regulations thereunder,
and the untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged
omission of a material fact contained in such International Prepricing
Prospectus was corrected in the International Prospectus, provided that the
Company has delivered the International Prospectus to the several Managers in
requisite quantity on a timely basis to permit such delivery or sending.  The
foregoing indemnity agreement shall be in addition to any liability which the
Company may otherwise have.

     (b)  Each Selling Stockholder agrees, severally and not jointly, to
indemnify and hold harmless you and each other Manager and each person, if any,
who controls any Manager within the meaning of Section 15 of the Act or Section
20 of the Exchange Act with the same exceptions and to the same extent as the
foregoing indemnity from the Company to each Manager, but only with respect to
information relating to such Selling Stockholder furnished in writing by or on
behalf of such Selling Stockholder expressly for use in the Registration
Statement, the International Prospectus or any International Prepricing
Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto.  The foregoing indemnity
agreement shall be in addition to any liability which any Selling Stockholder
may otherwise have.

     (c) If any action, suit or proceeding shall be brought against any Manager
or any person controlling any Manager in respect of which indemnity may be
sought against the Company, any Selling Stockholder or both, such Manager or
such controlling person shall promptly notify in writing the parties against
whom indemnification is being sought (the "indemnifying parties"), and such
indemnifying parties shall assume the defense thereof, including the employment
of counsel and payment of all fees and expenses.  Such Manager or any such
controlling person shall have the right to employ separate counsel in any such
action, suit or proceeding and to participate in the defense thereof, but the
fees and expenses of such counsel shall be at the expense of such Manager or
such controlling person unless (i) the indemnifying parties have agreed in
writing to pay such fees and expenses, (ii) the indemnifying parties have failed
to assume the defense and employ counsel, or (iii) the named parties to any such
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              21

action, suit or proceeding (including any impleaded parties) include both such
Manager or such controlling person and the indemnifying parties and such Manager
or such controlling person shall have been advised by its counsel in writing,
with a copy furnished to the Company upon request, that representation of such
indemnified party and the indemnifying parties by the same counsel would be
inappropriate under applicable standards of professional conduct (whether or not
such representation by the same counsel has been proposed) due to actual or
potential differing interests between them (in which case the indemnifying
parties shall not have the right to assume the defense of such action, suit or
proceeding on behalf of such Manager or such controlling person).  It is
understood, however, that the indemnifying parties shall, in connection with any
one such action, suit or proceeding or separate but substantially similar or
related actions, suits or proceedings in the same jurisdiction arising out of
the same general allegations or circumstances, be liable for the reasonable fees
and expenses of only one separate firm of attorneys (in addition to any local
counsel) at any time for all such Managers and controlling persons not having
actual or potential differing interests with you or among themselves, which firm
shall be designated in writing by Smith Barney Inc., and that all such fees and
expenses shall be reimbursed as they are incurred.  The indemnifying parties
shall not be liable for any settlement of any such action, suit or proceeding
effected without its written consent, but if settled with such written consent,
or if there be a final judgment for the plaintiff in any such action, suit or
proceeding, the indemnifying parties agree to indemnify and hold harmless any
Manager, to the extent provided in the preceding paragraph, and any such
controlling person from and against any loss, claim, damage, liability or
expense by reason of such settlement or judgment.

     (d) Each Manager agrees, severally and not jointly, to indemnify and hold
harmless the Company, its directors, its officers who sign the Registration
Statement, any person who controls the Company within the meaning of Section 15
of the Act or Section 20 of the Exchange Act and the Selling Stockholders, to
the same extent as the foregoing indemnity from the Company and the Selling
Stockholders to each Manager, but only with respect to information relating to
such Manager furnished in writing by or on behalf of such Manager through you
expressly for use in the Registration Statement, the International Prospectus or
any International Prepricing Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto.
If any action, suit or proceeding shall be brought against the Company, any of
its directors, any such officer, any such controlling person or any Selling
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              22

Stockholder based on the Registration Statement, the International Prospectus or
any International Prepricing Prospectus, or any amendment or supplement thereto,
and in respect of which indemnity may be sought against any Manager pursuant to
this paragraph (d), such Manager shall have the rights and duties given to the
Company and the Selling Stockholders by paragraph (c) above (except that if the
Company or the Selling Stockholders shall have assumed the defense thereof such
Manager shall not be required to do so, but may employ separate counsel therein
and participate in the defense thereof, but the fees and expenses of such
counsel shall be at such Manager's expense), and the Company, its directors, any
such officer, any such controlling person and the Selling Stockholders shall
have the rights and duties given to the Managers by paragraph (c) above.  The
foregoing indemnity agreement shall be in addition to any liability which any
Manager may otherwise have.

     (e) If the indemnification provided for in this Section 9 is unavailable to
an indemnified party under paragraphs (a), (b) or (d) hereof in respect of any
losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses referred to therein, then an
indemnifying party, in lieu of indemnifying such indemnified party, shall
contribute to the amount paid or payable by such indemnified party as a result
of such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses (i) in such proportion
as is appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received by the Company and
the Selling Stockholders on the one hand and the Managers on the other hand from
the offering of the Shares, or (ii) if the allocation provided by clause (i)
above is not permitted by applicable law, in such proportion as is appropriate
to reflect not only the relative benefits referred to in clause (i) above but
also the relative fault of the Company and the Selling Stockholders on the one
hand and the Managers on the other in connection with the statements or
omissions that resulted in such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or
expenses, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations.  The relative
benefits received by the Selling Stockholders on the one hand and the Managers
on the other shall be deemed to be in the same proportion as the total net
proceeds from the offering (before deducting expenses) received by the Selling
Stockholders bear to the total underwriting discounts and commissions received
by the Managers, in each case as set forth in the table on the cover page of the
International Prospectus.  The relative fault of the Company and the Selling
Stockholders on the one hand and the Managers on the other hand shall be
determined by reference to, among other things, whether the untrue or alleged
untrue statement of a material fact or the omission or alleged omission to state
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              23

a material fact relates to information supplied by the Company and the Selling
Stockholders on the one hand or by the Managers on the other hand and the
parties' relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to
correct or prevent such statement or omission.

     (f) The Company, the Selling Stockholders and the Managers agree that it
would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to this Section 9 were
determined by a pro rata allocation (even if the Managers were treated as one
entity for such purpose) or by any other method of allocation that does not take
account of the equitable considerations referred to in paragraph (e) above.  The
amount paid or payable by an indemnified party as a result of the losses,
claims, damages, liabilities and expenses referred to in paragraph (e) above
shall be deemed to include, subject to the limitations set forth above, any
legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by such indemnified party in
connection with investigating any claim or defending any such action, suit or
proceeding. Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 9, no Manager shall
be required to contribute any amount in excess of the amount by which the total
price of the Shares underwritten by it and distributed to the public exceeds the
amount of any damages which such Manager has otherwise been required to pay by
reason of such untrue or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged
omission.  No person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning
of Section 11(f) of the Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person
who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.  The Managers'
obligations to contribute pursuant to this Section 9 are several in proportion
to the respective numbers of Shares set forth opposite their names in Schedule I
hereto (or such numbers of Shares increased as set forth in Section 12 hereof)
and not joint.

     (g)  No indemnifying party shall, without the prior written consent of the
indemnified party, effect any settlement of any pending or threatened action,
suit or proceeding in respect of which any indemnified party is or could have
been a party and indemnity could have been sought hereunder by such indemnified
party, unless such settlement includes an unconditional release of such
indemnified party from all liability on claims that are the subject matter of
such action, suit or proceeding.

     (h) Any losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses for which an
indemnified party is entitled to indemnification or contribution under this
Section 9 shall be paid by the indemnifying party to the indemnified party as
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              24

such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses are incurred.  The
indemnity and contribution agreements contained in this Section 9 and the
representations and warranties of the Company and the Selling Stockholders set
forth in this Agreement shall remain operative and in full force and effect,
regardless of (i) any investigation made by or on behalf of any Manager or any
person controlling any Manager, the Company, its directors or officers or the
Selling Stockholders, any director, officer or partner of a Selling Stockholder
or any person controlling the Company or any Selling Stockholder, (ii)
acceptance of any Shares and payment therefor hereunder, and (iii) any
termination of this Agreement.  A successor to any Manager or any person
controlling any Manager, or to the Company, its directors or officers, or to a
Selling Stockholder, any director, officer or partner of a Selling Stockholder
or any person controlling the Company or any Selling Stockholder shall be
entitled to the benefits of the indemnity, contribution and reimbursement
agreements contained in this Section 9.

     10.  Conditions of Managers' Obligations.  The several obligations of the
          -----------------------------------                                 
Managers to purchase the Shares hereunder are subject to the following
conditions:

          (a) If, at the time this Agreement is executed and delivered, it is
necessary for the registration statement or a post-effective amendment thereto
(or a Rule 462(b) Registration Statement) to be declared effective before the
offering of the Shares may commence, the registration statement or such post-
effective amendment or Rule 462(b) Registration Statement shall have become
effective not later than 5:30 P.M., New York City time, on the date hereof, or
at such later date and time as shall be consented to in writing by you, and all
filings, if any, required by Rules 424 and 430A under the Act shall have been
timely made; no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the registration
statement shall have been issued and no proceeding for that purpose shall have
been instituted or, to the knowledge of the Company or any Manager, threatened
by the Commission, and any request of the Commission for additional information
(to be included in the registration statement or the Prospectuses or otherwise)
shall have been complied with to your reasonable satisfaction.

          (b) Subsequent to the effective date of this Agreement, there shall
not have occurred (i) any change, or any development involving a prospective
change, in or affecting the condition (financial or other), business,
properties, net worth, or results of operations of the Company or the
Subsidiaries not contemplated by the Prospectuses, which in your reasonable
opinion, as Lead Managers for the several Managers, would materially, adversely
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              25

affect the market for the Shares, or (ii) any event or development relating to
or involving the Company or any officer or director of the Company which makes
any statement made in the Prospectuses untrue or which, in the opinion of the
Company and its counsel or the Managers and their counsel, requires the making
of any addition to or change in the Prospectuses in order to state a material
fact required by the Act or any other law to be stated therein or necessary in
order to make the statements therein not misleading, if amending or
supplementing the Prospectuses to reflect such event or development would, in
your reasonable opinion, as Lead Managers for the several Managers, materially
adversely affect the market for the Shares.

          (c) Each condition (other than the issuance and sale of the Shares) to
the closing contemplated by the Repurchase Agreement, shall have been satisfied
or waived. There shall exist at and as of the Closing Date (after giving effect
to the transactions contemplated by this Agreement) no condition that would
constitute a default (or any event that with notice or the lapse of time, or
both, would constitute a default) under the Repurchase Agreement, which has not
been waived.  Simultaneously with the issue and sale of the Shares by the
Company, the Company will repurchase from the Selling Stockholders 10,842,299
shares of Common Stock and warrants to purchase 290,821 shares of Common Stock
(the "Company Repurchase").  The Company Repurchase shall be consummated on
terms that conform in all material respects to the descriptions thereof in the
Prospectuses and the Representatives shall have received true and correct copies
of all documents pertaining thereto, as originally executed, and evidence
satisfactory to the Representatives of the consummation thereof.

          (d)  The Credit Agreement, dated as of March 27, 1994, as amended and
restated as of December 29, 1995, and further amended and restated as of
September 6, 1996, among the Company, Broyhill Furniture Industries, Inc., The
Lane Company, Incorporated, Thomasville Furniture Industries, Inc., the Banks
party thereto, Credit Lyonnais New York Branch, as Documentation Agent,
NationsBank, N.A., as Syndication Agent and Bankers Trust Company, as
Administrative Agent, shall be amended in all material respects in accordance
with the financing letter dated May 27, 1997 between Bankers Trust Company and
the Company and in accordance with the description of such amendment in the
Prospectuses (as so amended, the "Secured Credit Agreement").  Each condition to
the closing contemplated under the Secured Credit Agreement in connection with
the Company Repurchase shall have been satisfied or waived. There shall exist at
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              26

and as of the Closing Date (after giving effect to the transactions contemplated
by this Agreement) no condition that would constitute a default (or any event
that with notice or the lapse of time, or both, would constitute a default)
under the Secured Credit Agreement, which has not been waived.
The closing contemplated under the Secured Credit Agreement shall have been
consummated on terms that conform in all material respects to the descriptions
thereof in the Prospectuses and the Representatives shall have received true and
correct copies of all documents pertaining thereto, as originally executed, and
evidence satisfactory to the Representatives of the consummation thereof.

          (e) You shall have received on the Closing Date, an opinion of Morgan,
Lewis & Bockius LLP, counsel for the Company, dated the Closing Date and
addressed to you, as Lead Managers for the several Managers, to the effect that:

          (i) The Company is a corporation validly existing in good standing
     under the laws of the State of Delaware with corporate power and authority
     to own, lease and operate its properties and to conduct its business as
     described in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses (and any
     amendment or supplement thereto);

          (ii) Each of the Material Subsidiaries is a corporation validly
     existing in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its
     organization, with corporate power and authority to own, lease, and operate
     its properties and to conduct its business as described in the Registration
     Statement and the Prospectuses (and any amendment or supplement thereto);

          (iii)  The authorized and outstanding capital stock of the Company is
     as set forth under the caption "Capitalization" in the Prospectuses; and
     the authorized capital stock of the Company conforms in all material
     respects as to legal matters to the description thereof contained in the
     Prospectuses under the caption "Description of Capital Stock";

          (iv) All the outstanding shares of capital stock of the Company have
     been duly authorized and validly issued, and are fully paid and
     nonassessable;

          (v)  The Registration Statement and all post-effective amendments, if
     any, have become effective under the Act and, to the knowledge of such
     counsel, no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              27

     Statement has been issued and no proceedings for that purpose are pending
     before or contemplated by the Commission; and any required filing of the
     Prospectuses pursuant to Rule 424(b) has been made in accordance with Rule
     424(b);

          (vi)  The Company has corporate power and authority to enter into this
     Agreement, and this Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and
     delivered by the Company and is a valid, legal and binding agreement of the
     Company, enforceable against the Company in accordance with its terms,
     except as enforcement of rights to indemnity and contribution hereunder may
     be limited by Federal or state securities laws or principles of public
     policy and subject to the qualification that the enforceability of the
     Company's obligations hereunder may be limited by bankruptcy, fraudulent
     conveyance, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, and other laws relating
     to or affecting creditors' rights generally, and by general equitable
     principles;

          (vii)  Neither the offer, sale or delivery of the Shares, the
     execution, delivery or performance of this Agreement, compliance by the
     Company and the Selling Stockholders with the provisions hereof nor
     consummation by the Company and the Selling Stockholders of the
     transactions contemplated hereby conflicts or will conflict with or
     constitutes or will constitute a breach of, or a default under, the
     certificate or articles of incorporation or bylaws, or other organizational
     documents, of the Company or any of the Material Subsidiaries or any
     agreement, indenture, lease or other instrument to which the Company or any
     of the Material Subsidiaries is a party or by which any of them or any of
     their respective properties is bound that is an exhibit to the Registration
     Statement or to any Incorporated Document, or is known to such counsel, or
     will result in the creation or imposition of any lien, charge or
     encumbrance upon any property or assets of the Company or any of the
     Material Subsidiaries, nor will any such action result in any violation of
     any existing law, regulation, ruling (assuming compliance with all
     applicable state securities and Blue Sky laws), judgment, injunction, order
     or decree known to such counsel, applicable to the Company, the Material
     Subsidiaries or any of their respective properties;

          (viii) The Registration Statement and the Prospectuses and any
     supplements or amendments thereto (except for the financial statements and
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              28

     the notes thereto and the schedules and other financial and statistical
     data included therein, as to which such counsel need not express any
     opinion) comply as to form in all material respects with the requirements
     of the Act; and each of the Incorporated Documents included in the
     Registration Statement (except for the financial statements and the notes
     thereto and the schedules and other financial and statistical data included
     therein, as to which counsel need not express any opinion) complies as to
     form in all material respects with the Exchange Act and the rules and
     regulations of the Commission thereunder;

          (ix) To the knowledge of such counsel, (A) other than as described or
     contemplated in the Prospectuses (or any supplement thereto), there are no
     legal or governmental proceedings pending or threatened against the Company
     or any of the Subsidiaries, or to which the Company or any of the
     Subsidiaries, or any of their property, is subject, which are required to
     be described in the Registration Statement or Prospectuses (or any
     amendment or supplement thereto) and (B) there are no agreements,
     contracts, indentures, leases or other instruments, that are required to be
     described in the Registration Statement or the Prospectuses (or any
     amendment or supplement thereto) or to be filed as an exhibit to the
     Registration Statement or any Incorporated Document that are not described
     or filed as required, as the case may be;

          (x)  The following statements in the Prospectuses, insofar as they are
     descriptions of contracts, agreements or other legal documents, or refer to
     statements of law or legal conclusions, are accurate and present fairly the
     information required to be shown:  on page 10, under "Risk Factors -
     Significant Leverage", the second sentence relating to the Secured Credit
     Agreement amount, the third sentence relating to the Receivables
     Securitization Facility amount and the last sentence relating to the
     interest rate swap agreement amounts; on page 10, under "Risk Factors -
     Restrictive Covenants in Certain Debt Instruments", the entire paragraph;
     on page 11, under "Risk Factors -Absence of Dividends", the first sentence
     relating to restrictions on the payment of dividends under the Secured
     Credit Agreement; on page 11, under "Risk Factors - Anti-Takeover
     Provisions", the entire paragraph; on page 12, under "Price Range of Common
     Stock and Dividend Policy", the first sentence of the last paragraph
     relating to restrictions on the payment of dividends under the Secured
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              29

     Credit Agreement; on page 16, under "Management's Discussion and Analysis
     of Financial Condition and Results of Operations -General", the third
     sentence of the third paragraph relating to no ownership interest or
     management control of the footwear business upon the completion of the
     restructuring; on page 21, under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
     Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Financial Condition and
     Liquidity", the first five sentences of the fourth full paragraph relating
     to the Secured Credit Agreement and the ninth and tenth sentences of such
     paragraph relating to the financial covenants of the Secured Credit
     Agreement, the entire fifth paragraph on the page relating to the
     Receivables Securitization Facility and the entire sixth paragraph on the
     page; on page 34, under "Business - Environmental Matters", the entire
     first and second paragraphs; on page 36, under "Certain Transactions", the
     entire paragraph; on page 36, under "Selling Stockholders and Company
     Repurchase", the entire second paragraph beginning on the page; on page 37,
     under "Selling Stockholders and Company Repurchase, the entire first full
     paragraph; on page 37, under "Description of Capital Stock", the entire
     section; on page 39, under "Certain U.S. Tax Consequences to Non-U.S.
     Stockholders", the entire section; on page 42, under "Underwriting", the
     first sentence of the third paragraph relating to the obligations of the
     several underwriters; and

          (xi)  Although counsel has not undertaken, except as otherwise
     indicated, to determine independently, and does not assume any
     responsibility for, the accuracy or completeness of the statements in the
     Registration Statement, such counsel has participated in the preparation of
     the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses, including review and
     discussion of the contents thereof (including review and discussion of the
     contents of all Incorporated Documents), and nothing has come to the
     attention of such counsel that has caused them to believe that the
     Registration Statement (including the Incorporated Documents) at the time
     the Registration Statement became effective, or the Prospectuses, as of the
     date thereof and as of the Closing Date, contained an untrue statement of a
     material fact or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated
     therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading or that
     any amendment or supplement to the Prospectuses, as of the respective date
     thereof, and as of the Closing Date, contained any untrue statement of a
     material fact or omitted to state a material fact necessary in order to
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              30

     make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which
     they were made, not misleading (it being understood that such counsel need
     express no belief with respect to the financial statements and the notes
     thereto and the schedules and other financial and statistical data included
     in the Registration Statement or the Prospectuses or any Incorporated
     Document).

          In rendering such opinion as aforesaid, counsel may limit their
opinion to the federal laws of the United States, the General Corporation Law of
the State of Delaware, and the laws of the States of New York and Pennsylvania,
and may assume that the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the State of
North Carolina are in all relevant respects the same as the Delaware General
Corporation Law.

          (f)  You shall have received on the Closing Date an opinion from
Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, counsel for the Selling Stockholders, dated the
Closing Date and addressed to you, as Lead Managers for the several Managers to
the effect that:

          (i)  This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by or on
     behalf of each of the Selling Stockholders;

          (ii)  Each Selling Stockholder has full legal right, power and
     authorization, and any approval required by law, to sell, assign, transfer
     and deliver good and marketable title to the Shares which such Selling
     Stockholder has agreed to sell pursuant to this Agreement and, upon
     delivery of the Shares to the Managers against payment therefor in
     accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, the Managers will acquire
     the Shares free of any adverse claim within the meaning of Section 8-302 of
     the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect in the State of New York, assuming
     the Managers have acquired the Shares in good faith and without notice of
     any adverse claim; and

          (iii)  The Repurchase Agreement has been duly authorized, executed and
     delivered by each of the Selling Stockholders and is a valid, legal and
     binding agreement of each of the Selling Stockholders, enforceable against
     each of them in accordance with its terms, except as enforcement of rights
     to indemnity and contribution thereunder may be limited by Federal or state
     securities laws or principles of public policy and subject to the
     qualification that the enforceability of the Selling Stockholders'
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              31

     obligations thereunder may be limited by bankruptcy, fraudulent conveyance,
     insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, and other laws relating to or
     affecting creditors' rights generally, and by general equitable principles;

          (iv) The execution and delivery of each of this Agreement by the
     Selling Stockholders and the consummation of the transactions contemplated
     hereby and thereby will not conflict with, violate, result in a breach of
     or constitute a default under the terms or provisions of the partnership
     agreement of any Selling Stockholder, or, to such counsel's knowledge, any
     agreement, indenture, lease or other instrument to which any Selling
     Stockholder is a party or by which any of them or any of their assets or
     property is bound, or violate any statute, law, regulation, court order or
     decree known to such counsel to be applicable to any Selling Stockholder or
     to any of the property or assets of any Selling Stockholder, except for any
     such conflicts, breaches, defaults or violations that would not,
     individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect on the
     ability of such Selling Stockholder to consummate the transactions
     contemplated by this Agreement.

In rendering their opinion as aforesaid, counsel may, as to factual matters,
rely upon written certificates or statements of officers of the Selling
Stockholders and, as to matters of law, may limit their opinion to the federal
laws of the United States, the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware
and the laws of the State of New York.

          (g) You shall have received on the Closing Date, an opinion of Lynn
Chipperfield, Esq., general counsel for the Company, dated the Closing Date and
addressed to you, as Lead Managers for the several Managers, to the effect that:

          (i) The Company and each of the Subsidiaries has corporate power and
     authority, and, to such counsel's knowledge, all necessary governmental
     authorizations, approvals, orders, licenses, certificates, franchises and
     permits of and from all governmental regulatory officials and bodies
     (except where the failure so to have any such authorizations, approvals,
     orders, licenses, certificates, franchises or permits, individually or in
     the aggregate, would not have a Material Adverse Effect), to own their
     respective properties and to conduct their respective businesses as now
     being conducted, as described in the Prospectuses;
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              32

          (ii) Each of the Company and the Material Subsidiaries is duly
     qualified to transact business as a foreign corporation in good standing in
     the jurisdictions listed in an attached schedule, which are all
     jurisdictions in which they own, lease or operate manufacturing facilities;

          (iii)  Neither the Company nor any of the Material Subsidiaries is in
     violation of its respective certificate or articles of incorporation or
     bylaws, or other organizational documents, to the knowledge of such
     counsel, or is in default in the performance of any material obligation,
     agreement or condition contained in any bond, debenture, note or other
     evidence of indebtedness, to the knowledge of such counsel, except as may
     be disclosed in the Prospectuses;

          (iv) Except as disclosed in the Prospectuses, the Company owns of
     record, directly or indirectly, all the outstanding shares of capital stock
     of each of the Subsidiaries free and clear of any lien, adverse claim,
     security interest, equity, or other encumbrance, and all the outstanding
     shares of capital stock of each of the Subsidiaries have been duly
     authorized and validly issued, are fully paid and nonassessable;

          (v) Other than as described or contemplated in the Prospectuses (or
     any supplement thereto), to such counsel's knowledge after reasonable
     inquiry, there are no legal or governmental proceedings pending or
     threatened against the Company or any of the Subsidiaries, or to which the
     Company or any of the Subsidiaries, or any of their property, is subject,
     which are required to be described in the Registration Statement or
     Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement thereto);

          (vi) To such counsel's knowledge after reasonable inquiry, there are
     no agreements, contracts, indentures, leases or other instruments, that are
     required to be described in the Registration Statement or the Prospectuses
     (or any amendment or supplement thereto) or to be filed as an exhibit to
     the Registration Statement or any Incorporated Document therein that are
     not described or filed as required, as the case may be;

          (vii)  The Company and the Subsidiaries own all patents, trademarks,
     trademark registrations, service marks, service mark registrations, trade
     names, copyrights, licenses, inventions, trade secrets and rights described
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              33

     in the Prospectuses as being owned by them or any of them or, to the
     knowledge of such counsel, necessary for the conduct of their respective
     businesses, and such counsel is not aware of any claim to the contrary or
     any challenge by any other person to the rights of the Company and the
     Subsidiaries with respect to the foregoing;

          (viii)  To such counsel's knowledge after reasonable inquiry, neither
     the Company nor any of the Subsidiaries is in violation of any law,
     ordinance, administrative or governmental rule or regulation applicable to
     the Company or any of the Subsidiaries or of any decree of any court or
     governmental agency or body having jurisdiction over the Company or any of
     the Subsidiaries except for violations that would not, individually or in
     the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect;

          (ix)  Except as described in the Prospectuses, there are no
     outstanding options, warrants or other rights calling for the issuance of,
     and such counsel does not know of any commitment, plan or arrangement to
     issue, any shares of capital stock of the Company or any security
     convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for capital stock of the
     Company; and

          (x)  Except as described in the Prospectuses, there is no holder of
     any security of the Company or any other person who has the right,
     contractual or otherwise, to cause the Company to sell or otherwise issue
     to them, or to permit them to underwrite the sale of, the Shares or the
     right to have any Common Stock or other securities of the Company included
     in the registration statement or the right, as a result of the filing of
     the registration statement, to require registration under the Act of any
     shares of Common Stock or other securities of the Company.

          (xi)  The Company has corporate power and authority to enter into the
     Repurchase Agreement and the Secured Credit Agreement and each of the
     Repurchase Agreement and the Secured Credit Agreement has been duly
     authorized, executed and delivered by the Company and is a valid, legal and
     binding agreement of the Company, enforceable against the Company in
     accordance with its terms, except as enforcement of rights to indemnity and
     contribution thereunder may be limited by Federal or state securities laws
     or principles of public policy and subject to the qualification that the
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              34

     enforceability of the Company's obligations thereunder may be limited by
     bankruptcy, fraudulent conveyance, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium,
     and other laws relating to or affecting creditors' rights generally, and by
     general equitable principles;

          (xii)  Neither the execution, delivery or performance of the
     Repurchase Agreement or the Secured Credit Agreement, compliance by the
     Company with the provisions thereof nor consummation by the Company of the
     transactions contemplated thereby conflicts or will conflict with or
     constitutes or will constitute a breach of, or a default under, the
     certificate or articles of incorporation or bylaws, or other organizational
     documents, of the Company or any of the Material Subsidiaries or any
     agreement, indenture, lease or other instrument to which the Company or any
     of the Material Subsidiaries is a party or by which any of them or any of
     their respective properties is bound that is an exhibit to the Registration
     Statement or to any Incorporated Document, or is known to such counsel, or
     will result in the creation or imposition of any lien, charge or
     encumbrance upon any property or assets of the Company or any of the
     Material Subsidiaries, nor will any such action result in any violation of
     any existing law, regulation, ruling (assuming compliance with all
     applicable state securities and Blue Sky laws), judgment, injunction, order
     or decree known to such counsel, applicable to the Company, the Material
     Subsidiaries or any of their respective properties;

          (h) You shall have received on the Closing Date an opinion of Cravath,
Swaine & Moore, counsel for the U.S. Underwriters, dated the Closing Date and
addressed to you, as Lead Managers for the several Managers, with respect to
such matters as you may reasonably request.

          (i) You shall have received letters addressed to you, as Lead Managers
for the several Managers, and dated the date hereof and the Closing Date from
KPMG Peat Marwick LLP, independent certified public accountants, substantially
in the forms heretofore approved by you.

          (j) (i)  No stop order suspending the effectiveness of the
Registration Statement shall have been issued and no proceedings for that
purpose shall have been taken or, to the knowledge of the Company, shall be
contemplated by the Commission at or prior to the Closing Date; (ii) there shall
not have been any material change in the capital stock of the Company nor any
material increase in the short-term or long-term debt of the Company (other than
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              35

in the ordinary course of business) from that set forth or contemplated in the
Registration Statement or the Prospectuses (or any amendment or Supplement
thereto); (iii) there shall not have been, since the respective dates as of
which information is given in the Registration Statement and the Prospectuses
(or any amendment or supplement thereto), except as may otherwise be stated in
the Registration Statement and Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement
thereto), any material adverse change in the condition (financial or other),
business, prospects, properties, net worth or results of operations of the
Company and the Subsidiaries taken as a whole; (iv) the Company and the
Subsidiaries shall not have any liabilities or obligations, direct or contingent
(whether or not in the ordinary course of business), that are material to the
Company and the Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, other than those reflected in
the Registration Statement or the Prospectuses (or any amendment or supplement
thereto); and (v) all the representations and warranties of the Company
contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct on and as of the date
hereof and on and as of the Closing Date as if made on and as of the Closing
Date, and you shall have received a certificate of the Company, dated the
Closing Date and signed on behalf of the Company by the chief executive officer
and the chief financial officer of the Company (or such other officers as are
acceptable to you), to the effect set forth in this Section 10(j) and in Section
10(k) hereof.

          (k) The Company shall not have failed at or prior to the Closing Date
to have performed or complied with any of its agreements herein contained and
required to be performed or complied with by it hereunder at or prior to the
Closing Date.

          (l) All the representations and warranties of the Selling Stockholders
contained in this Agreement shall be true and correct on and as of the date
hereof and on and as of the Closing Date as if made on and as of the Closing
Date and you shall have received a certificate, dated the Closing Date, signed
by or on behalf of each Selling Stockholder to the effect set forth in this
Section 10(l) and in Section 10(m) hereof.

          (m) The Selling Stockholders shall not have failed at or prior to the
Closing Date to have performed or complied with any of their agreements
contained in this Agreement and required to be performed or complied with by
them at or prior to the Closing Date.

          (n) The Company and the Selling Stockholders shall have furnished or
caused to be furnished to you such further certificates and documents as you
shall have reasonably requested.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              36

          (o)  The closing under the U.S. Underwriting Agreement shall have
occurred on the Closing Date concurrently with the closing hereunder.

          All such opinions, certificates, letters and other documents will be
in compliance with the provisions hereof only if they are reasonably
satisfactory in form and substance to you and your counsel.

          Any certificate or document signed by any officer of the Company or by
any Selling Stockholder and delivered to you, as Lead Managers for the Managers,
or to counsel for the Managers, shall be deemed a representation and warranty by
the Company or such Selling Stockholder to each Manager as to the statements
made therein.

     11.  Expenses.  The Company and the Selling Stockholders agree to pay the
          --------                                                            
following costs and expenses and all other costs and expenses incident to the
performance by them of their obligations hereunder:  (i) the preparation,
printing or reproduction, and filing with the Commission of the registration
statement (including financial statements and exhibits thereto), each of the
Prepricing Prospectuses, the Prospectuses, and each amendment or supplement to
any of them; (ii) the printing (or reproduction) and delivery (including
postage, air freight charges and charges for counting and packaging) of such
copies of the registration statement, each International Prepricing Prospectus,
the International Prospectus, and all amendments or supplements to any of them
as may be reasonably requested for use in connection with the offering and sale
of the Shares; (iii) the preparation, printing, authentication, issuance and
delivery of certificates for the Shares, including any stamp taxes in connection
with the original issuance and sale of the Shares; (iv) the cost of production
(or reproduction) and delivery of this Agreement, the Blue Sky Memorandum and
all other agreements, memoranda, correspondence and other documents printed (or
reproduced) and delivered in connection with the original issuance and sale of
the Shares; (v) the registration or qualification of the Shares for offer and
sale under the securities or Blue Sky laws of the several jurisdictions as
provided in Section 5(g) hereof (including the reasonable fees, expenses and
disbursements of counsel for the Managers and U.S. Underwriters relating to the
preparation, printing or reproduction, and delivery of the Blue Sky Memorandum
and such registration and qualification); (vi) the filing fees in connection
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              37

with any filings required to be made with the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc.; (vii) the transportation and other expenses incurred by or on
behalf of representatives of the Company in connection with presentations to
prospective purchasers of the Shares; (viii) the fees and expenses of the
Company's accountants and the fees and expenses of counsel (including local and
special counsel) for the Company and the Selling Stockholders; (ix) the
underwriting discounts and commissions (in proportion to the number of Shares
being offered by each Selling Stockholder; and (x) the performance by the
Company and the Selling Stockholders of their other obligations under this
Agreement.

     12.  Effective Date of Agreement.  This Agreement shall become effective:
          ---------------------------                                         
(i) upon the execution and delivery hereof by the parties hereto; or (ii) if, at
the time this Agreement is executed and delivered, it is necessary for the
registration statement or a post-effective amendment thereto to be declared
effective before the offering of the Shares may commence, when notification of
the effectiveness of the registration statement or such post-effective amendment
has been released by the Commission.  Until such time as this Agreement shall
have become effective, it may be terminated by the Company or the Selling
Stockholders, by notifying you, or by you, as Lead Managers for the several
Managers, by notifying the Company and the Selling Stockholders.

          If any one or more of the Managers shall fail or refuse to purchase
Shares which it or they are obligated to purchase hereunder on the Closing Date,
and the aggregate number of Shares which such defaulting Manager or Managers are
obligated but fail or refuse to purchase is not more than one-tenth of the
aggregate number of Shares which the Managers are obligated to purchase on the
Closing Date, each non-defaulting Manager shall be obligated, severally, in the
proportion which the number of Shares set forth opposite its name in Schedule I
hereto bears to the aggregate number of Shares set forth opposite the names of
all non-defaulting Managers or in such other proportion as you may specify in
accordance with Section 20 of the Master Agreement Among Underwriters of Smith
Barney Inc., to purchase the Shares which such defaulting Manager or Managers
are obligated, but fail or refuse, to purchase.  If any one or more of the
Managers shall fail or refuse to purchase Shares which it or they are obligated
to purchase on the Closing Date and the aggregate number of Shares with respect
to which such default occurs is more than one-tenth of the aggregate number of
Shares which the Managers are obligated to purchase on the Closing Date and
arrangements satisfactory to you and the Selling Stockholders for the purchase
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              38

of such Shares by one or more non-defaulting Managers or other party or parties
approved by you and the Selling Stockholders are not made within 36 hours after
such default, this Agreement will terminate without liability on the part of any
non-defaulting Manager, the Company or any Selling Stockholder.  In any such
case which does not result in termination of this Agreement, either you or the
Company shall have the right to postpone the Closing Date, but in no event for
longer than seven days, in order that the required changes, if any, in the
Registration Statement and the Prospectuses or any other documents or
arrangements may be effected.  Any action taken under this paragraph shall not
relieve any defaulting Manager from liability in respect of any such default of
any such Manager under this Agreement. The term "Manager" as used in this
Agreement includes, for all purposes of this Agreement, any party not listed in
Schedule I hereto who, with your approval and the approval of the Company,
purchases Shares which a defaulting Manager is obligated, but fails or refuses,
to purchase.

          Any notice under this Section 12 may be given by telegram, telecopy or
telephone but shall be subsequently confirmed by letter.

     13.  Termination of Agreement.  This Agreement shall be subject to
          ------------------------                                     
termination in your absolute discretion, without liability on the part of any
Manager to the Company or any Selling Stockholder by notice to the Company, if
prior to the Closing Date (i) trading in securities generally on the New York
Stock Exchange, the American Stock Exchange or the Nasdaq National Market shall
have been suspended or materially limited, (ii) a general moratorium on
commercial banking activities in New York shall have been declared by either
federal or state authorities, or (iii) there shall have occurred any outbreak or
escalation of hostilities or other international or domestic calamity, crisis or
change in political, financial or economic conditions, the effect of which on
the financial markets of the United States is such as to make it, in your
judgment, impracticable or inadvisable to commence or continue the offering of
the Shares at the offering price to the public set forth on the cover page of
the International Prospectus or to enforce contracts for the resale of the
Shares by the Managers. Notice of such termination may be given to the Company
and the Selling Stockholders by telegram, telecopy or telephone and shall be
subsequently confirmed by letter.

     14.  Information Furnished by the Managers.  The statements set forth in
          -------------------------------------                              
the last paragraph on the cover page, the stabilization legend on the inside
front cover, and the statements in the first, second, fourth, seventh, eighth,
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              39

ninth, tenth, thirteenth and fourteenth paragraphs under the caption
"Underwriting" in any International Prepricing Prospectus and in the
International Prospectus, constitute the only information furnished by or on
behalf of the Managers through you as such information is referred to in
Sections 7(b) and 9 hereof.

     15.  Miscellaneous.  Except as otherwise provided in Sections 5, 12 and 13
          -------------                                                        
hereof, notice given pursuant to any provision of this Agreement shall be in
writing and shall be delivered (i) if to the Company, at the office of the
Company at Furniture Brands International, Inc., 101 South Hanley Road, St.
Louis, Missouri 63105, Attention: Lynn Chipperfield, Esq., General Counsel; (ii)
if to the Selling Stockholders, at Apollo Investment Fund, L.P., care of CICB
Bank and Trust Company (Cayman) Limited, Edward Street, Georgetown, Grand
Cayman, Cayman Islands, British West Indies and Lion Advisors, L.P., Two
Manhattanville Road, Purchase, New York 10577; or (iii) if to you, as Lead
Managers for the several Managers, care of Smith Barney Inc., 388 Greenwich
Street, New York, New York 10013, Attention:  Manager, Investment Banking
Division.

          This Agreement has been and is made solely for the benefit of the
several Managers, the Company, its directors and officers, and the other
controlling persons referred to in Section 9 hereof and the Selling Stockholders
and their respective successors and assigns, to the extent provided herein, and
no other person shall acquire or have any right under or by virtue of this
Agreement.  Neither the term "successor" nor the term "successors and assigns"
as used in this Agreement shall include a purchaser from any Manager of any of
the Shares in his status as such purchaser.

     16.  Applicable Law; Counterparts.  This Agreement shall be governed by and
          ----------------------------                                          
construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York applicable to
contracts made and to be performed within the State of New York.

          This Agreement may be signed in various counterparts which together
constitute one and the same instrument.  If signed in counterparts, this
Agreement shall not become effective unless at least one counterpart hereof
shall have been executed and delivered on behalf of each party hereto.
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              40

          Please confirm that the foregoing correctly sets forth the agreement
among the Company, the Selling Stockholders and the several Managers.


                         Very truly yours,


                         FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.


                         By ........................
                            Name:
                            Title:  Vice President


                         APOLLO INVESTMENT FUND, L.P.


                         By: Apollo Advisors, L.P.,
                             Managing General Partner


                         By: Apollo Capital Management,
                             Inc., General Partner


                         By ........................
                            Name:
                            Title:  Vice President


                         LION ADVISORS, L.P.,
                         on behalf of an investment account   
                         under management

                         By: Lion Capital Management, Inc.
                             General Partner


                         By ........................
                            Name:
                            Title:  Vice President
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              41

Confirmed as of the date first
above mentioned on behalf of
themselves and the other several
Managers named in Schedule I
hereto.

SMITH BARNEY INC.
CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON (EUROPE) LIMITED
DILLON, READ & CO. INC
MERRILL LYNCH INTERNATIONAL
SALOMON BROTHERS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
WHEAT, FIRST SECURITIES, INC.


As Lead Managers for the Several Managers


By SMITH BARNEY INC.


By ..........................
   Name:
   Title:
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              42

                                  SCHEDULE I



                      FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                 Number of
                   Manager                        Shares  
- -------------------------------------------      --------- 
                                                         
 
Smith Barney Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Credit Suisse First Boston (Europe) Limited
Dillon, Read & Co. Inc. . . . . . . . . . . 
Merrill Lynch International . . . . . . . . 
Salomon Brothers International Limited  . .
Wheat, First Securities, Inc. . . . . . . . 
 
<S>                                              <C>
          Total . . . . . . . . . . . . .        2,200,000
                                                 =========
 
 
 
 
 
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              43

                                  SCHEDULE II


                      FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.


                              Selling Stockholders
                              --------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
                                                 Number of
Name                                               Shares   
- --------------------------------------------     --------- 
                                               
<S>                                              <C>
Apollo Investment Fund, L.P. . . . . . . . .     1,100,000
Lion Advisors, L.P., on behalf of                          
an investment account under                                
management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .     1,100,000
                                                 --------- 
 
          Total                                  2,200,000
                                                 =========
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
 
                                                                              44

                                  SCHEDULE III


                      FURNITURE BRANDS INTERNATIONAL, INC.


                     Required Director and Officer Lock-Ups
                     --------------------------------------

         1.   Richard B. Loynd

         2.   Wilbert G. Holliman, Jr.

         3.   Brent B. Kincaid

         4.   K. Scott Tyler, Jr.

         5.   Frederick B. Starr

         6.   David P. Howard

         7.   Lynn Chipperfield

         8.   Steven W. Alstadt

<PAGE>
 
                                                                    EXHIBIT 23.1
 
                         INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' CONSENT
 
The Board of Directors
Furniture Brands International, Inc.:
 
  We consent to the use of our reports included and incorporated by reference
herein and to the reference to our firm under the heading "Experts" in the
prospectus.
 
                                          KPMG Peat Marwick LLP
 
St. Louis, Missouri
   
June 24, 1997     


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