Website Closers® presents a dynamic and established eCommerce Furniture Brand with a hybrid approach that seamlessly blends with both online and in-store sales channels.
• Operating for over 16 years, this business has become a trusted destination for a wide array of indoor and outdoor furniture for homes and offices, offering convenience, quality, and variety.
• The business runs as an almost absentee owner business given how little time is needed for the current owner to be involved in daily affairs.
• This same absentee ownership could continue with a new owner, or a new owner could dive in and aggressively work to expand operations and the team.
The Company
This company specializes in selling a diverse range of furniture, including living room, bedroom, and dining room pieces, sourced directly from reputable manufacturers and distribution centers across the United States (not from China like most of the competition).
The company was established in 2008 and has been a huge contender in the furniture market. Its strategic sourcing approach ensures reduced lead times by providing customers with quicker delivery of their desired furnishings compared to competitors relying on overseas inventory.
Top Value Proposition
What sets this business apart is its hybrid sales model. With a physical location in Columbus, MS, and a robust online presence, it caters to a broad customer base throughout the Southeast and beyond. The hybrid sales approach not only diversifies revenue streams but also enhances customer convenience, allowing them to shop in-store or online according to their preference. An owner does not for any reason need to be located in or anywhere near Columbus, MIS – this business can be run from anywhere, whether absentee or not.
Experienced Team and Operational Ease
A dedicated team, including a full-time General Manager, a Sales Associate, and a part-time Driver … all support the business at its current levels. The current owner spends about 8 hours weekly focusing on finance, payroll, and overseeing operations. Even this could be handled by a VA. This makes it an ideal acquisition for someone looking to step into a well-oiled machine that requires very little oversight.
Marketing and Customer Engagement
Using a mix of Google Ads, Facebook marketing, SEO, and BigCommerce, the business has a proven formula for cost-effective advertising, generating 5,000 to 10,000 leads monthly via Google and Facebook. With 50% of their sales coming from online channels and the other 50% from in-store purchases, this hybrid sales approach maximizes reach and customer convenience. Their average order value stands at $845, indicating customer purchasing power. Although they have not kept a close eye on the number of repeat customers, there’s more room to grow loyalty through better marketing and content strategy.
Growth Opportunities
The potential for growth in this business is substantial. With access to over 250,000 products from current suppliers, there’s ample room to expand the SKU selection. A more aggressive marketing strategy—both locally and online—can significantly increase reach and sales. The business model is designed for scalability, presenting opportunities to launch additional brick-and-mortar locations and expand market reach from the Southeast to nationwide. There are numerous opportunities to expand in other online marketplaces like Amazon and Esty.
With 16 years of groundwork laid, this business is primed for further growth. Whether through expanding the product range, enhancing marketing efforts, or opening new locations, the opportunities are endless. The existing systems and experienced team ensure a smooth transition for the buyer, allowing them to focus on strategic growth initiatives.
Business Broker Takeaway
Our analysis of this business shows that the value propositions present are strong for a first-time buyer looking to get into the online space. We are excited about this business for three important reasons:
1. Hybrid Sales Model: With 50% of sales coming from online channels and 50% from in-store purchases, this company leverages a hybrid sales channel approach that enhances customer convenience and diversifies revenue streams. This hybrid model allows for flexibility and resilience in various market conditions. Their AOV stands at $845, which shows a high customer buying power. While they haven’t tracked repeat customer rates closely, there’s significant potential to build on existing loyalty through enhanced customer engagement strategies.
2. Experienced Team and Streamlined Operations: Operational efficiency is a hallmark of the business, and the company has a dedicated and experienced team that allows the current owner work roughly 6-8 hours weekly. Prospective buyers can focus on scaling the business, ensuring smooth daily operations, and the opportunity to focus on strategic growth initiatives without being bogged down by the day-to-day operations.
3. Proven Advertising Effectiveness: The company uses a mix of Google Ads, Facebook marketing, and SEO to generate 5,000 to 10,000 leads monthly. This well-rounded and cost-effective advertising strategy has been key to its success, maximizing reach and customer acquisition. The buyer can begin by embarking on social media awareness to increase online presence and boost sales.
