Workspace Anyplace: focused selection, fast service

Discount Store News, May 5, 1997 by Mike Troy

"What we stock in our store is considered mid-market because we want to keep it affordable. Top-of-the-line furniture is available through our catalogs," Melvin said. "On in-stock orders, we can deliver and install within three days." Custom orders obviously take longer, but it's a fraction of the eight to 12 weeks that used to be commonplace.

There's a flat free of $50 for delivery and setup, and roughly 80% of customers take advantage of the service.

"Anybody can put office furniture together, but to do it properly is another story. Our competitors job it it out, but we have our own staff. Our guys stay and make the adjustments to ensure that the furniture is functional and properly put together."

Melvin won't disclose annual sales, however she did say sales have doubled since last year. The stores are owned by Tom McAnallen, who also owns three Steelcase office furniture distributorships that go by the name of Office Environments in Charlotte and Greenville, and by the name Purdue in Jacksonville. Melvin concedes Greenville would be the next logical location for a Workspace Anyplace, but added that right now there are no plans for the third unit.