In a sign that the economy may be improving, Capel Rugs said its sales skyrocketed 70 percent at this spring's High Point Market compared to last year. The company noted it saw increases across all categories, especially in its transitional and braided collections.

"We are very pleased to report such a dramatic increase in sales this market," said Capel VP Sales Allen Robertson. "We have worked hard to create collections that meet the changing needs and tastes of today's consumer, and this success shows how our hard work has paid off."

Capel's transitional and soft-contemporary introductions were favorites among buyers, who made the nature-inspired Graphique collection the company's bestseller at market. The company reported that sales of its domestically produced American Originals braided rugs were double that of typical market sales.

The Capel Rugs showroom in High Point, N.C., is open year-round and is located at Market Square, space 112.