Painters make a great choice when they choose to work with one of the 5,000+ independent stores that sell Benjamin Moore® products. Here's why it matters.
FACT: When you see a local paint and hardware store with a Benjamin Moore awning or logo, that store is an independent business. They are not franchised. They pay no fees or royalties to Benjamin Moore.
These retailers represent independent business at its best.
“For me as the owner, it offers a lot more upside if we do well. For the customer, I think their experience with a privately owned store, supporting a local business, is in their advantage,” says Otis C. Clark IV, a new entrepreneur and owner of the recently opened Cornerstone Paints in Atlanta, GA. He adds, “Supporting local businesses strengthens the community and allows for you to keep your dollars in your own neighborhood.”
A Legacy Commitment to Entrepreneurialism
Independent business owner Benjamin Moore made a pledge to support others like him when he and his brother first opened their business in Brooklyn in 1883.
Warren Buffett reinforced that same pledge in 2001, when his company, Berkshire Hathaway, bought Benjamin Moore & Co.. Not only did Buffett promise the retailers that carry Benjamin Moore products that they—not big box stores—would remain our sole distributors, he committed to staying out of their business-making decisions–except when it comes to Benjamin Moore supporting them with marketing, education, and support.
This rare business relationship has been working, and working well, for 136 years. And its future is bright.
But I'm a Painter:
Why Do Independent Retail Stores Matter to Me?
Just like most painting contractors, owners of stores that carry Benjamin Moore are passionate entrepreneurs. And working with an independently owned store comes with a multitude of benefits, including:
- Business-Meets-Community: Many retailers have owned their store for years. They are trusted institutions and pillars of their communities. They know the homeowners and businesses you need to reach to earn new painting projects. Relationships are at the core of every successful business, and independent retailers know that better than anyone.
- Superior Service: How often have you struck up a long-term business relationship with a worker at a big box store? Working with an independent store means steady service from people you actually get to know over months and years.
- Product Knowledge: If they carry Benjamin Moore paint and coatings, our retail partners understand why Benjamin Moore is better, from our ground-breaking Gennex® Color Technology to cutting-edge new products like SCUFF-X®. Need additional answers? Benjamin Moore’s nationwide team of Contractor Representatives and our Customer Support team are also at your service.
- Organic Lead Generation: Your success is their success. From word of mouth job leads for both residential and commercial projects, independent retailers are truly vested in your accomplishments.
- Trouble Shooting: Painting projects have their issues. When things go wrong, independent retailers are typically eager to help you get your project back on track again. It’s a team outlook–even when it comes to the bumps in the road.
- Agile Product Access: Looking for a specific Benjamin Moore product or coating? Unlike slow-moving corporate-owned stores, independent retailers are nimble, stocking their stores based on contractors’ needs and marketplace demand. Bottom line: If there is a specific product you need, your Benjamin Moore retailer can get it for you.
Entrepreneurialism and Excellence
As a business, Benjamin Moore honors its commitment to “Main Street” businesses every day.
As North America’s leading manufacturer of quality residential and commercial paint, color and coatings, Benjamin Moore’s committed to innovation is equally robust.
From chemists committed to creating new state-of-the-art paint and coatings to sustainable manufacturing processes, to helping retailers and painting contractors get business done with greater ease to help increase their sales, the entrepreneurial spirit that launched Benjamin Moore is alive and well.
Ready to connect with your local independent store? Find a store that carries Benjamin Moore near you or get in touch with your local Contractor Rep.
