Michael Barrows, Sales Manager and Angela McHargue, Designer of Atlanta Flooring Design Centers
Even if you’ve never been to Suwannee, Georgia or set foot in the showroom of Atlanta Flooring Design, one visit to their website (atlantaflooringdesign.com) will tell you quick as a click, this is a quality operation. Their core values, professional affiliations and years in business (23 to be exact) speaks for itself. And so, by the way, does its “Blissful” flooring selection.
Atlanta Flooring Design brought in Bliss by Beaulieu displays shortly after the brand’s launch at Surfaces in 2008 and about four months ago the store received more new Bliss product displays to keep a good and profitable relationship going and growing. About 700 sq. ft. of floor space is devoted to Bliss.
Michael Barrows, a floor covering sales veteran and Sales Manager for Atlanta Flooring Design, cited several factors that make Bliss a popular brand on his floor for sales associates and customers alike.
“Healthy Home has a good story,” observed Michael. “It has definitely helped carpet sales.” Michael pointed out Healthy Home because it has several unique, proprietary features his customers love, such as Silver Release antimicrobial technology that helps to reduce odor and stain causing bacteria and mold and mildew. It also has Magic Fresh carpet treatment that helps to reduce household odors from pets, cooking or smoking. Both are big draws for women.
A good display also helps, according to Barrows, and the Bliss displays are no exception. “The Bliss racks put everything at eye-level and everything is spelled-out so it’s easy to sell from. Even the warranties are made simple. They show very well.”
But a relationship isn’t complete without solid interaction between mill and dealer. On that score, Michael has been very pleased. “The thing I like about Wanda (Wanda McCart is their Beaulieu TM) is that she’s developed good relationships with all my sales people not just me as the sales manager.” Additionally, Patricia Flavin, Senior VP of Marketing for Beaulieu, visited the Suwannee showroom a few months ago to conduct a day-long training class for all the sales associates. The reviews and results following her presentation were extremely positive.
And then, there’s the American Express Gift Card program Bliss is becoming known for. “It works!” commented Michael. “Everybody needs help getting ready for the holidays and this is great way to do it.” All 8 sales associates are on the program and the results, along with the PK, have been good, according to Barrows. The “Bliss for the Holidays” program rewards registered dealers for every 200 yards of Bliss carpet sold (except Bliss for Kids) with a $200 American Express Gift Card.
Atlanta Flooring Design and Beaulieu show that product, people and promotions are the key to strong relationships with dealers, every time.
