Established in 1931, Empire Today has become a household name in the flooring industry, known for its wide array of high-quality carpet and related services. But how did it all begin? Let's delve into the rich history of Empire Carpet, a story of innovation, growth, and customer-centricity.
Founded by Seymour Cohen, Empire Carpet started as a small family business in Chicago, Illinois. Cohen, an immigrant from Russia, had a vision to bring affordable and reliable carpeting solutions to American homes. With just a few employees and a single truck, Empire Carpet took its first steps into the flooring market.
Early Growth and Evolution
The 1940s and 1950s saw Empire Carpet grow from a local Chicago operation to a regional player. It expanded its fleet and workforce, enabling it to serve a broader customer base. Cohen's commitment to quality and customer service earned Empire Carpet a strong reputation, setting the stage for its future success.
In the 1960s, Empire Carpet embarked on a marketing campaign that would define its public image for decades. The "800-588-2300" jingle, accompanied by its iconic phone number, became a staple in American television advertising. This innovative marketing strategy propelled Empire Carpet to national prominence.
The Empire Carpet Showroom Concept
In the late 1970s, Empire Carpet revolutionized the flooring industry by introducing the showroom concept. Instead of visiting customers' homes, Empire Carpet invited them to its showrooms to browse and select their desired carpets. This approach streamlined the purchase process, reduced installation times, and allowed Empire Carpet to provide a wider range of products.
Empire Carpet's showrooms also became hubs for community engagement. They offered free seminars on home improvement, hosted local events, and provided a space for customers to connect with professionals. This customer-centric approach solidified Empire Carpet's status as more than just a flooring company; it was a trusted community partner.
Expansion and Diversification
Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Empire Carpet expanded its reach across the United States. It opened new showrooms, invested in technology to improve its internal operations, and diversified its product offerings to include hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and tile flooring.
Empire Carpet also began to explore the commercial market, providing flooring solutions for businesses of all sizes. This expansion allowed Empire Carpet to tap into new revenue streams while maintaining its commitment to quality and service.
Empire Today: A New Era
In 2006, Empire Carpet rebranded as Empire Today, reflecting its evolution from a regional carpet provider to a national flooring leader. The new name symbolized the company's continued growth and commitment to innovation.
Continuing the Legacy of Quality and Service
Under the new brand, Empire Today maintained its focus on quality products and exceptional customer service. It introduced new services, such as Empire SMART Install™, designed to improve installation efficiency and enhance the customer experience.
Empire Today also continued its commitment to community engagement. It launched the Empire Gives Back initiative, supporting various charitable causes across the country. This program underscored Empire Today's dedication to giving back to the communities it serves.
Empire Today: The Future of Flooring
Today, Empire Today operates in over 40 locations across the United States, offering a vast array of flooring products and services. Despite its growth, Empire Today remains committed to Cohen's original vision: providing affordable, high-quality carpeting and exceptional service to every customer.
As the flooring industry continues to evolve, Empire Today is ready to lead the way, guided by its timeless values of quality, service, and community engagement. So, the next time you think of refreshing your home's floor, remember the story of Empire Today - from a small family business in Chicago to a nationwide flooring leader, one customer at a time.