E.C. Barton & Company, a specialty retailer with a more than 134-year heritage, has announced an addition to the family of home improvement brands – Barton’s Home Improvement. Following more than a year of research, the launch of the new brand will start with a set of pilot stores.
“The pilot of the new brand is based on strengthening who we already are today,” said Kevin Pierce, chief operating officer for E.C. Barton & Company. “Our objective is to make it clear to our customers that we specialize in flooring, cabinetry, plumbing and millwork; offering high quality products at the guaranteed lowest price. The changes we are making are based on improving the experience for our customers, while ensuring they know who we are and what we offer.”
The organization, which is the parent company of Barton’s Lumber, Bargain Outlet, Barton’s Surplus Warehouse and E.C.B. Brokerage, reported that findings from research indicated that consumers are confused about what the Bargain Outlet and Surplus Warehouse brands offer. This finding is the foundation for change that will align the brands within the E.C. Barton family and better reflect the product offering of the stores through a well-informed pilot program in key new and existing markets. The company also reported that additional research indicated an overwhelming response, among consumers, professionals and employees, in favor of the Barton’s Home Improvement brand.
“Research shows that our customers are extremely savvy,” Pierce stated. “We are well positioned to serve these customers and the new brand will allow us to better communicate our offerings.”
The Barton’s Home Improvement pilot launched on July 8, 2019, with a new store opening in Conway, Arkansas, and will comprise eight pilot locations by the end of the year. Each pilot store will reflect varying elements in order to test the best path forward. New stores and select locations feature a new store format that enhances the customer experience with inspirational kitchen and bathroom displays and an expanded design center, a free service that is available in all 105 store locations. These enhancements are designed to inspire customers, providing an interactive experience in the home remodeling or building journey. In addition to the changes, customers who are familiar with E.C. Barton brands will continue to experience the same variety of high-quality products at the guaranteed lowest prices and expert advice.
“As we go through this process, it’s important to us that we are doing the right thing for both our customers and our employee-Partners,” said Pierce. “Testing these changes through the pilot gives us the opportunity to ensure that it works.
“There is a reason we have been around for 134 years and continue to grow – that is almost unheard of in the retail environment. We have a history of evolving with the needs of our customers. The changes we are going through today allow us to embrace a new, exciting future while maintaining our rich heritage.”
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