One oft-ignored add-on segment that has bolstered profit margins for many retailers lies not on the floor, but above it. Window coverings and fashions comprise a multi-billion-dollar industry segment that has a natural design relationship with floor coverings, but is often relegated to non-industry status. Believing that window accoutrements and floor covering materials are selected without thought or concern for one another leaves rationale, as well as money, on the table. And because the purchase decision for one often weighs on the other, having both products available in one location makes sense, both logically and financially.
"The floor covering retailer is the largest channel for aggressive growth that we have at this moment," notes Joe Jankoski, corporate vice president of merchandising for Hunter Douglas. "We're still amazed that many haven't yet come on board, but those that have are having great success."