Recently, I was catching up with MMAC member (of 51 years!) BiltRite Furniture and was struck by the image in Randi Komisar's signature line.
Closing a retail operation for nine days of prime shopping time is not a decision any business takes lightly. Thankfully, Randi indulged my curiosity by answering a few questions about BiltRite's philosophy on extended holiday closures.
When did BiltRite first begin this “store vacation” – what inspired the idea?
RANDI: We started it in 2006; the same year we opened our current Greenfield location. We were just closed for July 3 and July 4 initially, but it has grown over the years from 2, 4, 5, 7, 8 and now this year 9 days! We have also added other breaks during the year during Christmas and Easter, for about 4 to 5 days each. We run our store almost like a school. Our employees and customers value and respect that we take time off to be with family.
Care to share other strategies BiltRite has put forth to ensure your team is refreshed and operating at their best?
RANDI: In order for us to allow our team to enjoy more time with their families, we are closed on Sundays. We believe that by investing in the well-being of our staff and their families, we will see an increase in long-term employees that are knowledgeable and passionate about home furnishings.
In a world that quickly flipped to remote and virtual commerce – what changes you have made to accommodate customer shopping?
RANDI: We launched a more user-friendly website in November 2021, but we are still 100% a brick-and-mortar retail store. We do not sell online. Furniture and mattresses are investment pieces. You need to touch it, feel it and be educated on what you are buying so you can make a smart decision. We want to drive customers to our showroom. BiltRite now offers after hours appointments since we close at 6pm, to accommodate those who need to shop later.
Randi, I read you are the 4th generation at BiltRite and have been working in the store since you were 12. Is there a 5th generation in training?
RANDI: Yes—this is very true. The 5th generation is in training. From time to time, they are at the store working too. Currently, you can see them in our TV commercials!
Source:https://app.cerkl.com/org/story.php?id=15914107
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