Nestled in the heart of our community, our bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom business has been a steadfast presence for over five decades. In this blog, we’re taking a nostalgic journey down memory lane and looking at some of the challenges we’ve overcome as a business. We’re grateful that every hurdle has only made us stronger, more resilient, and infinitely more thankful for the support of our local community!
1. The 2008 recession: Pivoting through the storm
Ah, the 2008 recession – a tough time for businesses large and small. We found ourselves sailing stormy seas, but with a bit of creativity and a whole lot of determination, we managed to pivot our way through. Adapting to the changing market demands, we analysed the emerging trends, consumer preferences, and identified niches that hadn’t been fully explored yet. This along with listening keenly to our wonderful customers ensured that we emerged from the recession pretty unscathed.
2. Recession and soaring interest rates: The late 80s/90s financial struggle
In the late 80s and early 90s, the economy faced another hurdle – soaring interest rates that reached a mind boggling 18%. Money became tighter than ever, impacting businesses across the board. Our Director, Tina, worked tirelessly, even taking on a second job, to keep the business afloat. It was a challenging time, but her determination and the unwavering support of our community saw us through.
3. Battling the COVID-19 pandemic: Rules, lockdowns, and resilience
Just when we thought we’d seen it all, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, bringing with it unprecedented challenges. The rules and lockdowns made it difficult, but our team’s resilience prevailed.
With people staying at home, many began to realise that their home needed a few improvements. By harnessing the power of technology, we were all stations go as we quickly adapted to the new normal by introducing virtual consultations. Embracing video tools and digital software, we were able to still have meaningful discussions with our clients, understanding their requirements, and presenting them with tailored solutions. Our team also transformed our showrooms into a safe space, strictly following health guidelines and scheduling individual appointments, ensuring that our clients could experience our offerings in person while adhering to social distancing rules.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, our commitment to excellence never wavered. We upheld our high standards of craftsmanship, delivering top-notch renovations that transformed our clients’ homes into spaces that not only met their functional needs but also brought them a sense of comfort and solace during these trying times. We even managed to give away a free kitchen worth over £23,000 to celebrate a local Covid hero and managed to spread some joy during such a tough time.
Looking back, the COVID-19 pandemic helped to reinforce the importance of adaptability, resilience, and the power of human connection, even in the face of physical distance. As we emerged from this challenging period, we carried forward the lessons learned and the experiences gained, shaping our business practices to be even more flexible and technologically advanced.
4. Supply chain woes: Navigating the aftermath of COVID-19
As the world slowly recovered from the pandemic, a new challenge arose – supply chain disruptions. From China chip shortages to geopolitical tensions affecting supplies from Ukraine, we found ourselves at the mercy of global events. Yet, with patience and resourcefulness, we managed to source alternative materials and team up with incredible local suppliers, ensuring that our customers’ dreams were not delayed.
5. Work/life balance: The eternal juggling act
Running a local business isn’t just about managing finances and satisfying customers; it’s also about balancing work and life. This challenge has persisted throughout our journey. Tina, our renovations superstar and leading lady, believes that even if you’re not in the business, you’re IN the business.
Despite the hectic schedules she has always managed to juggle work and home balance setting an example of dedication and flexibility that is reflected throughout the business. This now continues with her 3-year-old granddaughter who is often a fixture in the showroom and already answers her toy phone with the words ‘Modern Homes how can I help you!’
Our team members aren’t just colleagues; they’re family. We support one another through thick and thin, celebrating each other’s successes and standing strong in the face of challenges. Our clients aren’t just customers; they’re valued members of our extended family. We listen to their dreams, share in their joys, and work tirelessly to make their visions come true, just as we would for our own family members.
Are you looking to refresh your home and make it a little more you? Contact us today; we’d love to help you transform your space into exactly what you’re dreaming about!