Behind-the-scenes: A glimpse of what happens before we open our doors
HomeWorld Honolulu
702 S. Beretania Street
If you enjoy shopping as much as I do, you love walking through a store looking at wonderful and inspiring things to purchase. But have you ever thought about what it takes to create a welcoming and informative shopping experience?
The Natuzzi Editions Gallery at Home’World Furniture.
“It takes a lot of teamwork,” says Randy Yama, retail manager of HomeWorld Honolulu. “When your store is 46,000 square feet and new merchandise is arriving four or more times a week, everyone needs to chip in to make the showroom inviting for our customers.”
Randy inspects a sofa before the customer comes to the store to pick it up.
Prior to the doors opening every day at 10am, the store porters and sales people are busy dusting, straightening pillows, and vacuuming. When new items arrive to the store, porters, sales staff as well as merchandisers create attractive vignettes. “It’s easier for a customer to make a decision if they have visual examples of a particular room” adds Randy.
Zachary gives the coffee table a quick dusting before the doors open.
The courteous customer service desk prepares fresh brewed coffee that everyone can enjoy while they browse through the air-conditioned and well-lit showroom. They also contact customers to confirm deliveries and make sure all information is accurate to minimize any error.
Candace checks paperwork to make sure all the customer’s information is accurate for a smooth delivery.
Manufacturer’s reps and furniture designers visit throughout the year to update and train the staff on product benefits and features.
Daniel places accessories in the room setting to give it a complete look.
“Things are always changing,” says, Randy. “It’s our job to make sure we have the knowledge and training to pass the correct information so our customers can make the best educated choice for their family and home.”
Furniture is moved to a new location to make room for new arrivals.
“When it comes to people’s homes, it’s personal,” says Randy. “We’re not just selling furniture. We are improving the way they live in their home. When they walk out of our store we want them to have enjoyed the whole HomeWorld experience. And to make this possible, it takes a commitment to teamwork.”
When was the last time you went “wow” while shopping? Share it with us and we’ll pass it on.
About Terri Dux
Besides being a writer, passionate blogger, and photographer for HomeWorld Furniture, Terri is also co-owner of a local t-shirt craft company. When not watching her favorite TV channel, HGTV, Terri likes to sew, vermicompost, and thrift at neighborhood garage sales.
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