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This is Chris Redgrave for Zions Bank Speaking on Business.
The big news for RC Willey is their brand new store in Draper. This is the first time they've opened a new store in Utah for 24 years. It's just off Bangerter Highway on what is becoming known as the south end of the valley's own furniture row.
The focus right now at RC Willey is going after markets and areas where housing will be growing and expanding for quite some time. Draper fits that mold, as studies have shown how growth in the next 25 years in Utah will be all focused on southwest Salt Lake County, and northwest Utah County, which both of their new stores will be serving. RC Willey CEO Scott Hymas says they're positioning themselves as a company to be right in the thick of all that growth and development.
And, yes, it's true that they do more business outside of the state of Utah with locations in Idaho, Nevada and California, The RC Willey Corporation now includes 2400 employees and remains committed to Utah with some of the dedicated staff that's been with RC Willey for over 30 years. In addition to furniture and appliances, they carry mattresses, flooring, electronics and even iPads.
RC Willey is also moving their Provo store into a vacant spot in the University Mall. This will give them expanded square footage, and it's just down the street from their current location. They will also have access to more foot traffic.
The RC Willey story is a true testament to the grit and dedication it takes to start, own and operate a small family business. This 80-year-old furniture and appliance business has survived the original building burning down in 1953, two world wars, financial tumult and supporting nearby farmers and neighbors as they experienced the same challenges.
It's a long way from the days when Rufus Call Willey himself used to sell appliances from the back of his red pick-up truck. But the growth has been a test of value that RC Willey has created and treating customers like part of the extended family.
For Zions Bank, I'm Chris Redgrave, speaking on business.
RC Willey With locations in Utah, Idaho, Nevada and California www.rcwilley.com
