At Finish Pros, we take immense pride in being more than just a furniture refinishing and upholstery business. We see ourselves as a vital part of the local and regional community, contributing to sustainability and the economic well-being of our area. In partnership with like-minded companies like Hearthstone Marketing, a Raleigh-based marketing company, we are committed to making wise purchasing decisions, maintaining budgets, and considering the environmental impact of those decisions. This philosophy drives every aspect of our work at Finish Pros and aligns with the values of the many businesses we partner with across the Triangle.
The Importance of Thoughtful Purchasing
When making purchasing decisions for Finish Pros, I adhere to a specific set of priorities that reflect our commitment to sustainability and supporting the local economy:
- Sourcing Locally: Whenever possible, I seek out products and services from local vendors. This not only supports local businesses but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting goods over long distances. By purchasing from local stores that employ our neighbors and friends, we are investing in our community’s future.
- Made in the USA: If I can’t find a local source, I prioritize products made in the USA. Supporting domestic manufacturing helps sustain jobs within our country and ensures we are contributing to our national economy. This approach also often guarantees a higher standard of quality and craftsmanship.
- Environmental Impact: I carefully consider the environmental impact of every purchase. I look for vendors who prioritize sustainability, whether through the use of recycled materials, energy-efficient manufacturing processes, or eco-friendly products. This commitment reflects our broader goal of contributing to a more sustainable world, one purchase at a time.
- Necessity: Before making any purchase, I ask myself if it’s truly necessary. Can we improve or repurpose what we already have? This approach not only saves money but also minimizes waste, aligning with our commitment to sustainability.
Connecting with Regional Businesses
This approach to purchasing resonates deeply with the decision-makers at the regional businesses we work with daily. Financial institutions, local hospitals, doctors’ offices, and universities all face similar challenges when it comes to maintaining budgets, supporting the local economy, and reducing their environmental impact. These organizations understand that their furniture and decor play a significant role in their branding and the overall experience they provide to clients, patients, and students.
However, constant wear and tear can take a toll on their furnishings. The easiest solution might seem to be purchasing new furniture, but this can pose several challenges:
- Compatibility: When a piece of furniture is part of a set that is no longer available, finding a matching replacement can be difficult.
- Quality: In today’s market, new furniture often comes at a high cost, yet it may not match the quality of older pieces. This leads to frequent replacements and more waste.
- Environmental Concerns: Replacing furniture contributes to environmental degradation by increasing waste and the demand for new resources.
- Delays: Long lead times for new furniture orders can disrupt operations, especially when immediate replacements are needed.
Finish Pros’ Sustainable Solution
At Finish Pros, we offer a sustainable alternative that addresses these concerns. By restoring and reupholstering existing furniture, we help our clients maintain high-quality standards while reducing their environmental impact. Our process not only preserves the original craftsmanship of the furniture but also allows for customization to match updated aesthetics or branding.
Case Study 1: Local Educational Facility
One of our recent projects involved restoring the main lobby furniture at a local educational facility. The furniture, over 10 years old, no longer fit the institution’s updated branding and was showing significant wear. The easy option would have been to replace the furniture entirely, but budget constraints and the desire to maintain the original high-quality pieces led the institution to choose reupholstery.
We reconditioned the furniture using high-performance vinyl materials that were both inspirational and durable. Furthermore, the materials were sourced from North Carolina-based companies, with foam and padding purchased from a local vendor. The result was a refreshed lobby that not only aligned with the school’s branding but also stood up to the heavy use by students. This project not only saved money but also demonstrated a commitment to sustainability by avoiding the waste associated with replacing the furniture.
Case Study 2: County Library
Another project involved a public library where the furniture had become tired and damaged over the course of eight years. The effects of COVID-19, with its increased use of harsh cleaning chemicals, had also taken a toll on the materials. The library initially considered replacing the furniture, but the cost was nearly double that of reupholstering with lower-grade materials. By partnering with the Finish Pros design team, the library selected high-performance decorative vinyl materials that offered both durability and aesthetics.
We repaired sagging seats, reinforced loose frames, and reupholstered the library furniture, resulting in a refreshed and welcoming environment for patrons. This solution not only extended the life of the furniture but also provided significant cost savings and upheld the library’s commitment to environmental responsibility. Working with public facilities gives us great pride, knowing that our entire community benefits from the results and ultimately helps save taxpayer dollars.
Case Study 3: National Financial Institution
A national financial institution faced a dilemma with their office desks. The finish was worn, dented, and dinged from nearly two decades of use. The challenge was that the furniture was no longer being manufactured, and this style was part of their brand standard. Replacing the desks would have been costly and time-consuming, with no guarantee of matching the existing style.
Finish Pros was tasked with refinishing the desks to a “better than new” condition. Through our refinishing process, we restored the desks to their original luster, maintaining the brand’s aesthetic while saving the institution a significant amount of money. The refinished desks not only met the company’s high standards but also demonstrated a commitment to sustainability by reducing the need for new materials.
Case Study 4: Local Corporate Office Break Room
In a local corporate office, the management team wanted to redesign their break room to better suit the needs of their employees. The existing banquette-style seating along a long wall was no longer functional, and the team wanted to create a more collaborative setting.
We worked with the management team to split the banquette seat into booth-style seating, which not only improved the functionality of the space but also delighted the employees. The redesign showed the company’s commitment to enhancing the work environment for their staff, contributing to increased employee satisfaction and productivity.
The Ripple Effect of Conscious Purchasing
At Finish Pros, we firmly believe that small changes in purchasing habits can lead to significant positive impacts over time. By choosing to restore rather than replace, our clients are making a statement about their values. They are prioritizing quality, sustainability, and community over convenience and short-term savings.
This approach not only benefits the environment but also strengthens our local economy. By supporting businesses like Finish Pros that are committed to sustainable practices, our clients are helping to create a more resilient and prosperous community. In return, we provide them with high-quality, customized solutions that meet their needs and exceed their expectations.
Conclusion: A Shared Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
As we continue to partner with regional businesses, we are constantly reminded of the importance of thoughtful purchasing decisions. The choices we make today have a lasting impact on our environment, our economy, and our community. By working together, we can create a future where quality, sustainability, and economic prosperity go hand in hand.
At Finish Pros, we are proud to be part of this movement. Whether you are a financial institution, a local hospital, a university, or a corporate office, we invite you to join us in making a difference. Let us help you restore your furniture to its former glory, reduce your environmental footprint, and support our local economy. Together, we can make a big difference, one small change at a time.
Have you considered the environmental impact of your purchasing decisions? We would love to hear your thoughts and discuss how we can help you make more sustainable choices. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can work together to create a better future for our community.
