Michael’s has been furnishing Ashtabula homes since 1940

By ELLEN KOLMAN - Staff Writer - ekolman@starbeacon.com
Star Beacon

January 14, 2008 10:39 pm

— ASHTABULA — Since 1940, Michael’s Furniture has provided comfort and beauty to area homes.
Barry Silverman has been the owner of Michael’s Furniture, located at 4520 Main Avenue, since 1973.
“My father-in-law, Bob Koenig, and his father Lloyd Koenig, bought the store from Mr. Michaels in 1959,” Silverman said.
Even though Ashtabula City has gone through tough economic changes over the years, Michael’s Furniture has continued to do well because the store is well established and respected for its quality and service.
“We serve families that are now in their fifth generation buying from us,” he said.
So, what is the secret of Michael’s success?
“We are a small town store, so to be competitive we do truckload buying. Since we buy by the truckload, we can pass the savings on to the customers,” Silverman said.
Michael’s also does not deal with the major furniture companies because a big price comes with a big name.
“We back up what we sell with warranties. With most stores a life-time warranty means three to five years and they charge for pick-up and delivery,” he said. “Our warranty means life-time and repairs will cost the customer nothing.”
“I make sure I buy quality items, because we repair for free.”
Plus, Michael’s does all in-store financing.
“We want our customers to come back and send their friends and family to us,” Silverman said.
Also, none of Michael’s sales people work on commission, so no high-pressure sales here — just great service.
“Our policy is treat the customer how you want to be treated when you are shopping,” he said.
Because Michael’s Furniture has everyday low prices, they only offer sales in January — which is going on right now.
“We also offer interest- free financing, we have been doing that for 32 years and we do not charge more to cover costs — we just don’t charge interest — ever,” Silverman said.
So, what can a family find at Michael’s Furniture?
A complete line of furniture and appliances including: living room sets, recliners, gliders, rockers, dining room and dinette sets, mattress sets, bedroom sets, lamps, entertainment centers, TVs, bunk beds, washers/dryers, refrigerators, stoves, microwaves, dishwashers and more.
The latest trends in living room furniture is the fabric. Today’s customers love the “micro-fibers” because they are soft, comfortable, easy to clean and inexpensive to make.
“People love to touch it,” Silverman said.
Popular colors are brown and beige, as well as blue and green.
“I really enjoy my customers. Watching families grow up is a rare privilege,” he said. “If you are in retail, you have to love people.”
Call Michael’s Furniture at 440-993-6266.

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