Operations and marketing plans result in a doubling of sales in 2011

Kim Sparks and her husband Ray built a very successful upholstery and design business that thrived with the housing boom. Two and a half years ago things took a turn for the worse. Instead of throwing in the towel, they worked with Thomas Center to re-engineer the business.
Sales are up for both upholstery and design.

“We were feeling pretty beat up when we first started working with Tom and his team,” said Kim. “The most important thing he provided was inspiration and attitude. That was huge. Without a boost we could not have moved forward.”

The couple started Sparks Interiors, now known as Bellevue Eastside Upholstery, in the early 80’s out of their garage and built a successful business based solely on referrals. Kim returned to school and earned her degree in interior design and expanded their business to include design services, now doing business under Kim Sparks Interior Design. When the recession caused a dramatic decrease in sales, the two had to re-invent themselves.

“Once we decided to move forward, Tom helped us define internal roles for the first time and create systems for major areas such as sales and marketing, operations and finance,” said Kim. “We began to cold call target accounts and deploy an internet marketing campaign. As a result, our commercial business has at least doubled and residential sales are also on the rise. The time and money spent with the Thomas Center proved far more beneficial than I had ever imagined.”

According to a recent article in Fast Company magazine by marketing experts Dan and Chip Heath, new psychological research suggests that grit-defined as endurance in pursuit of long-term goals and an ability to persist in the face of adversity- is a key part of what makes people successful.

“Kim and Ray had all of the components needed to work with a new target market, including expert craftsmanship and superior customer service,” said Tom Rose, CEO, Thomas Center Business and Management Consulting. “They just needed to seek some objective feedback and business support. 2011 should be another milestone in their new journey.” The company will focus its work with Thomas Center for the rest of the year to stay on task, continue marketing and initiate new tactics.

Thomas Center Business and Management Consulting (TC) are committed to provide clients on the Eastside with custom brand/marketing solutions in collaboration with specialized talent throughout the lifecycle of their company. TC will move your business beyond its plateau more effectively and efficiently than anyone else.

To schedule your free 30 minute consultation contact Tom at 206.795.0921

For more information regarding Bellevue Eastside Upholstery and Kim Sparks Interior Design, please visit:
www.bellevueeastsideupholstery.com
www.kimsparksinteriordesign.com