It was during a presidential debate in 1980 when Republican nominee Ronald Reagan uttered what has become one of the most salient campaign questions in history. He asked the debate audience—and millions of Americans watching on TV at home—this simple question: “Are you better off [today] than you were four years ago?”
Since then, the phrase has been used as a benchmark for business as well as politics.
On that point, Floor Covering News asked several retailers that question—with the caveat that four years ago meant before the COVID-19 pandemic hit.
“Our business was doing very well in the years leading up to the pandemic. We certainly did not expect to come out of the pandemic—and the last four years—better off. However, that is exactly where we find ourselves today.”
TED GREGERSON
Ted’s Floors & Beyond
Aniston, Ala.
“I would not say we are better off. Yes, sales numbers are higher but so are expenses. Four years ago, we had better customer service from our vendors. Our employees were happier, and so were our customers.”
MIKE FOULK
Foulk’s Flooring America
Meadville, Pa.
“We are much stronger today than we were then. The COVID-19 era made us sharpen and refine the inner workings of our company.”
KEVIN ROSE
Carpetland USA
Rockford, Ill.
“I would say today we are much wiser. We learned that we must change our business practices in order to survive. Yes, we are better off business-wise than we were four years ago.”
ERIC MONDRAGON
RC Willey
Salt Lake City
“We are not doing the volume we did in 2019, although last year we closed the year within $500 of 2019. In 2023, we might be down 20% unless some miracle happens, which could happen.”
DON LOVATO
Carpet Source USA
Albuquerque, N.M
“In looking back four years ago, our business is dramatically different and better today than it was then. Our sales volume and profitability are substantially better as we continue to grow as a company.”
CRAIG PHILLIPS
The Flooring Edge
Akron, Ohio
