- Adweek Staff

BOSTON Once again leveraging its retail expertise, Zimmerman Advertising said it has been hired by The RoomPlace for integrated advertising chores. Spending is expected to be $10 million.

Headquartered in Lombard, Ill., the client, which sells affordable home furnishings, operates 22 stores in Illinois and Indiana. The chain was launched in 1912 and operated as a single storefront in Chicago until 1985.

"With the housing crunch dramatically affecting home furnishing sales, the sector is facing great challenge," said Jordan Zimmerman, agency founder and chairman. "It is the companies like The RoomPlace that power up and prepare to navigate the rough waters that end up getting the payoff."

Addd Bruce Berman, client CEO: "We liked the people, we respect the agency's accomplishments, and we think adding Zimmerman to our strong team will help support our continued growth strategy."

The last big score for Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based Zimmerman was the Pep Boys account in March.