Kids Furniture Source sets the standard
By Pamela Brill -- Kids Today, 5/1/2006
Farmingdale, N.Y.— In an area known for its furniture stores, Kids Furniture Source opened its doors last October and quickly established itself on the Route 110 corridor in Farmingdale, N.Y., an East Coast destination for home furnishings.
Since then, a handful of other stores offering youth and teen furnishings have sprung up.
"When we first conceived of the idea of a kids-only store, we were first on the block," said Art Eisenberg, director of operations. "Now there are several, all within a two-mile radius."
As a result, Kids Furniture Source is tailoring its merchandise to best suit its customers' needs. Eisenberg said the store's 11,000 square feet allow it to offer a big selection of quality brands that appeal to today's discerning consumer, including Stanley, Lea, American Woodcrafters and A.P. Inds.' Mary-Kate and Ashley collection.
The current mix leans toward youth and teen, but Eisenberg said the store is considering adding more crib and baby-related furnishings.
The sales floor showcases vignettes in different themes to give customers ideas for their children's bedrooms. "Parents are looking for guidance, not just with the products, but design-wise," he said.
The sales staff — generally four or five people on weekends and two during the week — typically draw potential bedroom plans for customers to illustrate where each piece, from the bed and dresser to the armoire and nightstand, might fit best.
Parents with kids in tow can take advantage of the kids entertainment rooms, where children can play, watch TV, draw or read.
"We get tremendous feedback from our customers who appreciate that their kids can enjoy themselves while they shop," Eisenberg said.
Kids also can practice their jump shot at the indoor basketball court, which is just off the entertainment room and near a sports-themed bedroom display.
When it comes to customers, Eisenberg said the challenge is to provide quality merchandise at a reasonable price. He said Kids Furniture Source is negotiating with a number of potential partners to offer sharper prices.
Eisenberg's next goal is to work on profit margins. While the intention originally was to open more KFS stores, it's better right now to focus on growing the current venue, he said.
"Everything is changing and we find we have to fine-tune ourselves continuously," he said. "We are watching as we go."
KFS offers entertainment rooms where kids can play while parents shop.
Kids Furniture Source was the first kids store on the block that now has a handful more.
