You have to take care of your own, especially during the tough times. Every day, the headlines tell the story of the recession that has begun to overtake our economy. People are spending their dollars wisely. One of the aspects of smart shopping is seeing your dollars stay local. The money Long Islanders spend in local businesses ensures that the money stays close to home. There are thousands of merchants across this Island who have been the backbone of our economy for generations. Let’s make sure they are here to stay. Each week, KIOLI will feature a local business. Let them know you saw their message here. And of course, spend your money with them. Let’s Keep It On Long Island.
THIS WEEK: KEN RIEMANN
ANDREW ROEHRIG
PARTNERS
THE APPLIANCE HOME CENTER
5074 JERICHO TPKE.
COMMACK
631-462-7900
www.theappliancehomecenter.com
How long have you been in business on LI?
Since 1996.
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How did you get into this business?
I came from the wholesale side, working for Whirlpool Corporation for 12 years, and my partner Andrew was a top salesman for P.C. Richard. Andrew started the business as Appliance and Electronics Depot in 1996 and I joined him in 2000.
What is your favorite memory of doing business on LI?
Andrew and I are big promoters, and we love kids, so we like to run family promotions with free food and characters from PBS and Nickelodeon. One event that comes to mind, we actually set up an outdoor concert where PBS characters performed and gave out autographs. We stopped traffic on Jericho.
How are you different from your competition?
Our motto, “It’s like having family in the business,” really sums up what separates us from the big-box store. We treat our customers like family, giving them the best prices and service. Most people wonder how we can do this. Well, with the help of the Intercounty Buying Group, a member of a national buying cooperative, we have the buying power of over 700 stores representing over a billion dollars in volume.
What is your hottest-selling item?
We are a full-service appliance and electronics store, selling everything from a plasma TV to a microwave. But right now the big push is plasma and LCD HDTV’s by far.
Can people shop online at your store?
Our website, www.theappliancehomecenter.com, is for information purposes only. Shopping for big appliances still needs to be done here at the store. We find customers need to still have the touch and feel of the appliance or TV before the purchase.
How do people find out about your business?
We promote locally through radio and circulars distributed through PennySaver. We also have a large referral base from contractors and designers and cabinet dealers.
What’s your favorite local restaurant?
Maroni in Northport.
Hamptons or Fire Island?
The Hamptons rock!
Do you have a Long Island accent?
No accent.
Billy Joel, Run-DMC, Johnny Maestro or Push Play?
Billy Joel.
