First, a few statistics…
American Business is Overwhelmingly Small Business
In 2012, according to U.S. Census Bureau data, there were 5.73 million employer firms in the U.S. Firms with fewer than 500 workers accounted for 99.7 percent of those businesses, and businesses with less than 20 workers made up 89.6 percent. Add in the number of nonemployer businesses – there were 23.0 million in 2013 – then the share of U.S. businesses with less than 20 workers increases to 97.9 percent.
Among employer C Corporations in 2012, 99.2 percent had less than 500 workers, and 86.2 percent had fewer than 20 employees.
-from http://sbecouncil.org/about-us/facts-and-data/
So what does that mean to the employees of Charlton Furniture?
Karen (19 years): Unlike “big-box” stores, we know what our local customers like and therefore are better equipped to fulfill their needs. I get great satisfaction knowing that we are helping our neighbors create the home of their dreams.
Lisa (about 1 year): My favorite part of working in a small business is the relationships I’ve created with the customers in the community. We really have their best interest at heart when selecting furniture for their home.
Valerie (12 years): As an employee of a small business, we “wear many hats.” I enjoy the diversity of my job but I really love knowing that what I do here matters (both to my fellow employees and our customers) At big companies, it’s easy to feel like just another cog in the machine.
Joe (2 ½ years): I like seeing our customers back in the store after they already had a delivery. It’s nice to know that they are happy enough with their purchase to come back for more. I think it’s reassuring for them to see me too, to be familiar with who is coming into their home.
Melissa (16 years): Family owned businesses are important in their strong commitment to quality and relation to their own family name. Their humanity in the workplace shows the care and concern for employees and customers as extended family.
Susan (since birth!): My father opened this store with a commitment to customer service. We continue this tradition and I recognize its value every time a customer comes in and tells me that their parents, friends, or neighbors recommended us! We have a unique atmosphere at our store and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
