For today’s Throwback Thursday post, we are taking you back to Spring of 2006! Did you know that Paddington Station was featured in a national magazine called “Country Business”?
The story, entitled “A Script for Success,” highlights the 2004 renovation and gives insight to other retailers who might be thinking about their own renovations.
“I wanted to preserve the soul of the building,” says Pam, “and the challenges of that were huge.” The work was completed in two phases, the first being an earthquake retrofit that allowed for business to continue as usual, and the second requiring everything to be moved out of the store. After the renovation, the store featured new lighting and HVAC as well as refinished floors, a freshly painted tin ceiling, and new balustrades and staircases.
For other shop owners considering renovating, Pam says that good planning and a solid timeline are necessary, but it’s also important to anticipate delays. And the most important piece of advice – “Expect that it’s going to cost more than you estimated!”
Some fun facts that the story included about Paddington Station in 2006:
- Number of employees: Seven full-time and nine part-time employees (these days, there are 21 full-time and 10 part-time!)
- Hottest selling product: Colorful kitchenware, especially silicone products and bamboo cutting boards; other top-sellers include books, pet-related products, Christmas ornaments, and “inspirational” products
- Best marketing tactic: Direct mail is essential, as is the popular Annual Open House
- Business philosophy: Be open to change, be savvy, and be flexible!