The family owned business has been successful for over 100 years and now, they've dedicated a set space to their newest project.
CHILLICOTHE - As you're driving through downtown, it's hard to miss the large neon sign that takes you back to the 1930s and if you've been inside, you won't forget the friendly atmosphere that comes with nearly 115 years of business.
In 1905, Globe Furniture made its first debut in the Gazette. It was described as a business that had top of the line products and affordable prices that other local shops didn't have. And fifth-generation owner Seth Brown says not much has changed.
While the store has continued to stay modern with updates to technology, offering the newest appliances and using social media, their business model has always been about customer service and a genuine experience.
"Our operations stay the same when it comes to customers, our ethics and values," said Brown. "That has and always will be the same."
Despite more competition coming into town with stores like Ollie's, Big Sandy Superstore and Big Lots the family-owned business has always been able to compete with the larger, corporate entities. Brown said it's because when customers go to Globe Furniture, they know exactly who they're buying from.
Brown had no plans to become the owner of Globe Furniture although he grew up with his mother and aunt running the business. After he graduated from college, he worked in the private business sector before returning to help out his family. Brown held a variety of positions at the store from delivery driver to associate, and eventually owner. He said this was important as it allowed him to learn all aspects of the business.
"It's a great opportunity and a lot of responsibility," Brown said about running the store. "I'm happy to carry on the family business."
Although there have been recent efforts to revitalize downtown Chillicothe, Brown remembers the ups and downs of having a store in the historic district of the city. But now the large art deco sign hanging outside the shop often leads curious people inside where they can browse or buy from the store's selection, increasing their traffic and business.
And while Globe Furniture is a family success story, that isn't always the case for family-owned companies. The Conway Center for Family Business reported that family businesses account for 64 percent of the United States' gross domestic product. But a 2012 study found that while 30 percent of family businesses make it into the second generation, only 12 percent make it to the third and less than 3 percent are viable into the fourth generation and beyond.
Over the years, Globe Furniture has added more products to their selection to keep up with competition from other retailers including small and large appliances, carpeting, furniture and more as they saw a demand in town. Recently, they've started operating as smaller stores within the bigger location with the addition of the GlobeLoft in 2017.
And now, the business has dedicated a large space downstairs to Globe Mattress First - a branch of national business retailer Furniture First. The decision to develop a dedicated space to mattresses was an easy one for Brown.
Locally, there is a lot of competition for mattresses and Globe Furniture wanted in. But sleep is also an essential and important part of life. The partnership between the business and Furniture First allowed the store to have specific training and tools that help customers find their perfect mattress, pillow and more.
Globe Mattress has a piece of technology that can't be found anywhere within a 30-mile radius of Chillicothe. The Support Report from XSENSOR technology allows a prospective buyer, and their partner, to lay on a mattress with 1,500 sensors. Then, the machine uses pressure mapping technology to show exactly what kind of mattress the individual needs. If there are two people, it combines their results to find a perfect middle point. The result could be one to three clouds that show how soft or firm the ideal mattress is.
The mattresses are then categorized based on their cloud rating so that the process is easier for associates and customers. It also takes the guessing game out of what mattress is best or ensures customers don't need to test every mattress at the store, according to Brown.
As far as future plans, Brown said there are none and that Globe Mattress is the last project for a while. Now, Globe Furniture will continue to focus on keeping the family business running.
"Business is strong and we hope to continue its longevity," Brown said.
On April 13, Globe Furniture will be hosting the final day of its grand opening event featuring drawings and giveaways.